A.O. Smith Gas Water Heater BTRC154

Ensure all ignition sources are away from the faucet when turning on hot water.

Do not smoke or have open flame or sparks near the heater.

Do not mix UN•LIME with other chemicals.

Avoid contact with magnesium, aluminum, or galvanized metals.

Use rubber or neoprene gloves, especially if you have open sores or cuts.

Turn off fuel and/or power supply to the heater.

Open hot water side of faucet closest to heater and allow water to run until cool.

CAUTION: Property Damage Hazard

Inspection and Replacement Guidelines

Inspect the anode rod for corrosion or pitting

Is the anode rod corroded or pitted?

Is the water artificially softened?

Determine the condition of the anode rod

Does the anode rod need replacement?

Draining the Water Heater Storage Tank

Turn off the electrical supply to the water heater

Turn off the gas supply at the Main Gas Shutoff Valve if the water heater is going to be shut down for an extended period

Ensure the cold water inlet valve is open

Open a nearby hot water faucet and let the water run until the water is no longer hot

Close the cold water inlet valve to the water heater

Connect a hose to the water heater drain valve and terminate it to an adequate drain

Open the water heater drain valve and allow all the water to drain from the storage tank

Close the water heater drain valve when all water in the storage tank has drained

Unfasten two screws to burner cover and remove it.

Locate the burner with pilot and remove screw holding burner to manifold.

Unfasten pilot tubing from valve and slide out burner and pilot.

Clean the orifice of the pilot burner.

Ensure no one is in front of or around the outlet of the Temperature-Pressure Relief Valve discharge line.

Ensure water discharge will not cause any property damage.

Use care when operating valve as the valve may be hot.

Lift the lever at the end of the valve several times to check if the valve seats properly and operates freely.

Did the valve reset completely after manual operation?

Is the valve continuing to release water after manual operation?