General Maintenance
Periodically, the drain valve should be opened and the water allowed to run until it flows clean. This will help to prevent sediment buildup in the tank bottom. Periodically check the temperature and pressure relief valve to ensure that it is in operating condition. Lift the lever at the top of the valve several times until the valve seats properly and operates freely. Water heater maintenance includes periodic tank flushing and cleaning and removal of lime scale from the heating element. The heater tank is equipped with an anode rod to aid in corrosion control and should be inspected periodically (see Anode Rod
Inspection).
Flushing the Water Heater
1. Turn OFF the electrical supply to the water heater at the breaker or disconnect switch.
2. Ensure the cold water inlet valve is open.
3. Open a nearby hot water faucet and let the water run until the water is no longer hot, then close the hot water faucet.
4. Connect a hose to the water heater drain valve and terminate it to an adequate drain.
5. Ensure that the drain hose is secured before and during the entire fl ushing procedure. Flushing is performed with system water pressure applied to the water heater.
6. Open the water heater drain valve to flush the storage tank.
7. Flush the water heater storage tank to remove sediment and allow the water to flow until it runs clean.
8. Close the water heater drain valve when flushing is completed.
9. Remove the drain hose.
10. Fill the water heater.
11. Turn ON the electrical supply to the water heater.
12. Place the water heater back in operation. Allow the water heater to complete several heating cycles to ensure it is operating properly.
The Importance of Sediment Removal
Water borne impurities consist of fine particles of soil and sand, which settle out and form a layer of sediment on the bottom of the tank. In time, if not removed, the level of sediment might reach the heating banks and cause their failure. For convenience, sediment removal and bank lime scale removal should be performed at the same time as follows in this chapter.
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Last Updated on 4 years ago
