Water Heater
	Description Water heaters go through a thermodynamic process that uses an energy source to heat water above its initial temperature. When using the hot water tap, heated water is drawn into the home’s pipes from the top of the water heater. To replace the water being used, fresh cold water flows into the bottom of the tank, activating the heating element.

Maintenance Checklist

• Flush water heater two times a year to reduce sediment build-up at the bottom of the tank. Be sure to turn off the unit and follow the       manual before flushing.
• Test the temperature and pressure of the water once a year. Be careful when testing, the water is extremely hot.
• Periodically drain a bucket of water from the drain faucet at the bottom of the water tank. Again, take care not to   get       burned by the hot water.
• Check all water lines, connections and valves for signs of leakage, especially where connections have been crimped.
• Check under the tank for small leaks that could be caused by rust and corrosion.
• Protect the flooring under your water heater by painting the area with water sealant.
• Check water heater frequently for leaks to prevent future problems.

Troubleshooting - Water Heater

Problem	Potential Cause	Potential Solution
No hot water.	The pilot light is not lit.	Relight the pilot.
	The pilot light will not stay lit.	Check if the thermocouple is near the pilot flame and connected to the gas control and turn on the gas valves.
	If gas unit, the gas is not coming out.	Make sure gas shutoff valve for the home and water heater are open.
	There is a malfunction in the thermocouple.	Replace the thermocouple.
	The water heater has no power. (Electric Unit)	Ensure the unit is plugged in.

Troubleshooting - A/C & Heating System

Problem	Potential Cause	Potential Solution
No hot water.	The safety thermostat malfunctioned.	Push reset button on possible blown fuses and check if heating element is functional.
	The heating thermostat is not working.	Test thermostat and replace if needed.
	The heating element is not working.	Replace heating element.
	Sediment has built up in the tank or pipes.	Flush the tank or pipes to remove the sediment build up.
There is limited hot water.	Thermostat is set incorrectly.	Calibrate thermostat to a higher temperature.
	Heat is lost in pipes.	Insulate pipes.
	Hot water faucets leak.	Repair leaks or repair pipes.
	The heating element is not working.	Test and replace elements as needed.
	There is sediment build-up in tank.	Flush tank.
	The holes on the burner are clogged.	Turn water heater off and allow to cool before cleaning out holes on the burner.
The water is extremely hot.	Thermostat is incorrectly set.	Turn down the thermostat.
	Insufficient insulation around the thermostats.	Secure the insulation surrounding the thermostats.
	The thermostat is not working.	Check and replace thermostat if necessary.
	The heating element is not working.	Check the element and replace if necessary.
	Exhaust vents are clogged.	Clean vents to remove clog.

Troubleshooting - Water Heater continued

Problem	Potential Cause	Potential Solution
Water heater is leaking	Possible leak in drain cock, element seal or element gasket.	Tighten or replace the element if necessary.
	Safety valve is leaking.	Steam will be released through the safety valve if the water is too hot.
	There is sediment build-up in tank.	Turn unit off and flush the tank to remove the sediment. If the safety valve is inoperative, replace.
The water heater is making an unfamiliar noise.	Scale has formed on the heating element.	Remove the heating element and clean to remove scale by soaking in vinegar.
	There is sediment build-up in tank.	Flush the tank to remove the sediment build up.
Rust colored water is coming from the faucets.	Scale has formed on the heating element.	Remove the heating element and clean to remove scale by soaking in vinegar.