Gas Water Heater
Homeowner Use and Maintenance Guidelines
Carefully read and follow the manufacturer's literature for your specific model of water heater.
Condensation
Condensation inside your new water heater may drip onto the burner flame. This causes no harm and in most cases will disappear in a short period of time.
Drain Tank
Review and follow the manufacturer's timetable and instructions for draining several gallons of water from the bottom of the water heater. This reduces the build-up of chemical deposits from the water, prolonging the life of the tank and saving energy dollars. Also drain the tank if it is being shut down during periods of freezing temperatures. Carefully follow the instructions in the manufacturer's literature. Be sure the electric circuit breaker and the gas is turned OFF while draining the tank or the internal elements will burn out.
Pilot
Most gas/propane furnaces are equipped with an ignition device, which automatically lights the pilot. DO NOT attempt to light the pilot by hand. Consult the manufacturer's literature and/or the "User's Information Manual" found on or near the water heater itself.
Pressure Relief Valve
For your protection, the unit comes equipped with a pressure and temperature relief valve. If the unit should overheat, this valve will prevent a dangerous build-up of temperature and pressure. When the valve is operating, it will appear that the tank is leaking, while it is merely releasing excess pressure.
Safety
Vacuum the area around a gas-fired water heater to prevent dust from interfering with proper flame combustion. Avoid using the top of a heater as a storage shelf.
Temperature
The recommended thermostat setting for normal everyday use is "normal." Higher settings can result in wasted energy dollars and increase the danger of injury from scalding. Hot water will take longer to arrive at sinks, tubs, and showers that are farther from the water heater.
No Hot Water
If you discover that you have no hot water, check the pilot, temperature setting, and water supply valve before calling for service. Refer to the manufacturer's literature for specific locations of these items and other troubleshooting information.
GOODIER BUILDERS Limited Warranty
Refer to the manufacturer's limited warranty for information regarding coverage of the water heater.
See also Plumbing.