Page 191 - 8170 Money Builder Binder for Owner_Neat

precauƟ ons are parƟ cularly important. ing wet. Immediately shut the water Maintain the T&P Relief Valve properly.
heater off and have it inspected by a Follow the maintenance instructions SAFETY
According to a naƟ onal standard
qualified person if you find that the provided by the manufacturer of the
American Society of Sanitary Engineer-
wiring, thermostat(s) or surround- T&P Relief Valve (label attached to T&P
ing (ASSE 1070) and most local plumbing
ing insulation have been exposed to Relief Valve) and the procedure that
codes, the water heater’s thermostat
water in any way (e.g., leaks from
should not be used as the sole means to starts on page 24.
plumbing, leaks from the water
regulate water temperature and avoid
heater itself can damage property An explosion could occur if the T&P
scalds.
and could cause a fire risk). If the Relief Valve or discharge pipe is
Properly adjusted ThermostaƟ c Mixing water heater is subjected to flood blocked. Do not cap or plug the T&P
Valves installed at each point-of-use al- conditions or the thermostat(s) have
Relief Valve or discharge pipe.
low you to set the tank temperature to been submerged in water, the entire
Fire and Explosion Risk if Hot Water is
a higher seƫ ng without increasing risk water heater must be replaced.
Not Used for Two Weeks or More
of scalds. A higher temperature seƫ ng
allows the tank to provide much more • Make electrical connections prop- C AUTION! Hydrogen gas builds up in
hot water and can help provide proper erly, according to the instructions a hot water system when it is not used
water temperatures for appliances such on page 14. Use 10 gauge solid for a long period (two weeks or more).
as dishwashers and washing machines. copper wire. Use a UL listed or CSA Hydrogen gas is extremely Ň ammable.
Higher tank temperatures (140°F) approved strain relief. Connect If the hot water system has not been
also kill bacteria that cause a condi- ground wire to green ground screw. used for two weeks or more, open a
Ɵ on known as “smelly water” and can hot water faucet for several minutes at
Explosion Risk
reduce the levels of bacteria that cause the kitchen sink before using any elec-
High temperatures and
water-borne diseases. trical appliances connected to the hot
pressures in the water
water system. Do not smoke or have
Water Contamination Risk heater tank can cause an an open Ň ame or other igniƟ on source
Do not use chemicals that could con- explosion resulting in property near the faucet while it is open.
taminate the potable water supply. Do damage, serious injury or death. A
not use piping that has been treated new Temperature and Pressure (T&P)
with chromates, boiler seal, or other
Relief Valve is included with your water
chemicals.
heater to reduce risk of explosion by
Fire Risk discharging hot water. Additional
To reduce the risk of a temperature and pressure protective
fire that could destroy equipment may be required by local
your home and serious- codes.
ly injure or kill people:
A nationally recognized testing labora-
• D o not store things that can burn
tory maintains periodic inspection of
easily such as paper or clothes next
the valve production process and certi-
to the water heater.
fies that it meets the requirements
• Be sure the junction box cover and for Relief Valves for Hot Water Supply
the access door covers are in place. Systems, ANSI Z21.22. The T&P Relief
These covers keep debris from Valve’s relief pressure must not exceed
entering and potentially being ignit- the working pressure rating of the wa-
ed, and help keep any internal fires
ter heater as stated on the rating plate.
from spreading.

• Keep the water heater from becom-

ResidenƟ al Electric Water Heater Use and Care Guide • 5