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Compare the actual input rate to that given on the heater’s rating
plate. In the example, the BT-65’s full input rate should be
65,000 Btuh (19.0 KW) for natural gas.
VENT SYSTEM
Examine the venting system every 6 months for obstructions and/
or deterioration of vent piping.
RELIEF VALVE
At least once a year the temperature and pressure relief valve
should be checked to ensure that it is in operating condition.
(During manual operation of this valve, avoid any contact with hot
water and take preventive steps for water damage). Lift the lever at
the top of the valve several times until the valve seats properly and
operates freely.
WARNING
THE WATER PASSING OUT OF THE VALVE DURING THIS
CHECKING OPERATION MAY BE EXTREMELY HOT. AVOID
CONTACT AND DISCHARGE SAFELY TO PREVENT WATER
DAMAGE.
If the temperature and pressure relief valve on the heater discharges
periodically or continuously, a problem exists. This may be due to
unusually high water temperatures or pressures in the system, or
to a faulty relief valve. Contact your dealer or a qualified service
technician to find the cause of the problem and to correct it. This
may also be due to thermal expansion in a closed water supply
system. Contact the water supplier or local plumbing inspector on
how to correct this situation.
DO NOT PLUG THE TEMPERATURE
AND PRESSURE RELIEF VALVE.
WARNING
SHOULD OVERHEATING OCCUR OR THE GAS SUPPLY FAIL TO
SHUT OFF, TURN OFF THE MANUAL GAS CONTROL VALVE TO
THE APPLIANCE.
HOT WATER ODOR
On occasion, hot water may develop a strong odor. If this occurs
drain the heater completely, flush thoroughly, and refill. If the
problem persists, chlorination of the heater and replacement of
the factory installed magnesium anode with an aluminum anode
may correct the condition.
Occasionally water softener companies recommend removal of
heater anodes for odor reasons.
CAUTION
Unauthorized removal of heater anode will void the warranty.
Replace the anode as necessary to maintain corrosion protection.
For further information contact your dealer.
ANODE ROD INSPECTION
The heater tank is equipped with an anode rod to provide corrosion
control. At least once a year the anode rod should be checked to
determine if replacement is necessary. Initially the anode rod is
approximately 7/8" (22mm) in diameter with a 1/8" (3mm) diameter
steel core wire running down the center of the anode material.
THE ANODE SHOULD BE REPLACED when the 1/8" (3mm)
diameter core wire is visible as this means that the anode material
has been expended in the control of corrosion.
NOTE: Anode rod inspection may need to be made more
frequently in areas subject to acid rain that obtains their water
supply from surface water as the low pH will accelerate anode
activity.
CAUTION: Close cold water inlet valve serving heater and open
nearby hot water faucet to relieve the pressure in the heater
before attempting to remove anode(s) for inspection.
WINTER PROTECTION
In regions where freezing weather is encountered, all water must
be drained from unit and piping when out of service (water shut
off). Drain valve must be left open until unit is returned to service.
REPLACEMENT PARTS
Replacement parts may be ordered through A. O. Smith dealers,
authorized servicers or distributors. Refer to the Yellow Pages for
where to call or contact the A. O. Smith Water Products Company,
5621 West 115th Street, Alsip, Illinois 60803, 1-800-433-2545. In
Canada contact A.O. Smith Enterprises Ltd., P.O. Box 310, 768
Erie Street, Stratford, Ontario N5A 6T3, 519-271-5800. When
ordering parts, be sure to state the quantity, part number and
description of the item
including the complete model and serial
number as it appears on the product. Refer to the parts list for
more information.
CHECKLIST
Before contacting your dealer, check the water heater to see if the
apparent malfunction is caused by some external fault. Consulting
this checklist may eliminate the need for a repair call and restore
hot water service.
NOT ENOUGH OR NO HOT WATER
1. Check to see if the pilot flame is lit.
• To relight the pilot, follow the instructions on the heater or
in this manual.
• Check to see if the main gas Shut-off valve in the gas
supply pipe is partially closed or the water temperature
dial is set too low.
2. Look for leaking or open hot water faucets. Check for excessive
usage.
3. Your gas company can check the gas input to the heater to see
that it is correct. An underfired heater will not produce hot
water at its normal recovery rate.
4. If the heater was installed when incoming water temperatures
were warm, colder incoming temperatures will create the effect
of less hot water.
5. The thermostat water temperature adjusting dial may be set
too low.
6. If you cannot determine the cause of the problems, contact
your dealer.