Kenmore THE ECONOMIZER 153.318131, THE ECONOMIZER 153.318031, 31813 - 40 Gallon Table Top, ECONOMIZER 6 153.318031, ECONOMIZER 6 153.318131 Owner's Manual
Owners
Manual
FOR POTABLEWATER
HEATING ONLY
NOT SUITABLEFOR
SPACEHEATING
Model No.
153.318031 27 GaL
153.318131 40 Gal.
LISTED
Caution:
Read and Follow
All Safety Rules and
Operating Instructions
Before First Use of
This Product.
Save this Manual for Future Reference.
THE ECONOMIZER TM6
TABLE TOP ELECTRIC
WATER HEATER
• Safety Instructions
• Installation
• Operation
• Care and Maintenance
• Troubleshooting
• Parts List
GAMA certification applies to all residential electric water heaters with
capacitiesof 20 to 120 Gallons. Input rating of 12 Kw or lessat a voltage
no greater than 250
_WARNING
READ THE GENERAL SAFETY SECTION BEGINNING ON INSIDE COVER
AND THEN THIS ENTIRE HANUAL BEFORE INSTALLING OR OPERAT-
ING THIS WATER HEATER.
Sears, Roebuck and Co., Hoffman Estates, IL 60179 U.S.A.
Printed in the U.S.A. 1203 www.sears.com Part No. 184733-000
Safety Precautions
AWARNING J
Improper installation,adjustment, alteration, service or
maintenancecancauseDEATH, SERIOUSBODILY INJURY,J
OR PROPERTY DAMAGE. Refer to this manual for assis-
tanceor consult your localSearsServiceCenter for further
information.
AWARNING
At the time of manufacture thiswater heater wasprovided with
a combination temperature-pressures relief valve certified by a
nationally recognized testing laboratory that maintains periodic
inspection of production of listed equipment or materials, as
meeting the requirements for Relief Valvesand Automatic Gas
Shutoff Devicesfor Hot Water SupplySystems,andthe current
edition of ANSI Z21.22, CSA 4.4 and the code requirements of
ASME. If replaced, the valve must meet the requirements of
local codes, but not lessthan a combination temperature and
pressurerelief valve certified as meeting the requirements for
ReliefValvesand Automatic Gas Shutoff Devicesfor Hot Water
SupplySystems, ANSI Z21.22, CSA 4.4 by a nationally recog-
nized testing laboratory that maintains periodic inspection of
productionof listedequipment or materials.
The valve must be marked with a maximum set pressurenot to
exceed the marked hydrostatic working pressure of the water
heater (150 Ibs./sq.in.) and a dischargecapacity not lessthan
the water heater input rate as shownonthe model rating plate.
(Electric heaters - watts divided by 1000x 3412 equal BTU/Hr.
rate.)
Your local jurisdictional authority, while mandating the use of a
temperature-pressure relief valvecomplyingwith ANSI Z21.22,
CSA 4.4 and ASME, may require a valve model different from
the one furnishedwith the water heater.
Compliance with such local requirements must be satisfied by
the installer or end user of the water heater with a locally pre-
scribedtemperature-pressure relief valve installedin the desig-
nated opening in the water heater in place of the factory fur-
nished valve.
For safe operation of the water heater, the relief valvemust not
be removed from it'sdesignatedopeningor plugged.
The temperature-pressure relief valve must be installed directly
into the fitting of the water heater designated for the relief
valve. Positionthe valve downward and provide tubing so that
anydischargewill exit only within 6 inchesabove, or at any dis_
tance below the structural floor. Be certain that no contact is
made with any live electrical part. The dischargeopening must
not be blocked or reduced in size under any circumstances.
Excessivelength, over 30 feet, or useof more than four elbows
can cause restriction and reduce the discharge capacity of the
valve.
No valve or other obstruction is to be placed between the
relief valve and the tank. Do not connect tubing directly to
dischargedrain unlessa 6" air gap is provided.To prevent bod-
ily injury, hazard to life, or property damage, the relief valve
must be allowed to discharge water in quantities should cir-
cumstances demand. If the discharge pipe isnot connected to
a drain or other suitable means, the water flow may cause
property damage.
The Discharge Pipe:
• Must not be smaller in size than the outlet pipe size of the
valve,or haveanyreducing couplingsor other restrictions.
• Must not be pluggedor blocked.
• Must beofmaterial listedfor hot water distribution.
• Must beinstalledsoasto allowcomplete drainage of both the
temperature-pressure relief valve,and the dischargepipe.
• Must terminate at an adequate drain.
• Must nothaveanyvalvebetween the relief valveand tank.
AWARNING
HAZARD OF ELECTRICAL SHOCK! Before removing
any access panels or servicing the water heater, make I
sure the electrical supply to the water heater is turned
"OFF". Failure to do this could result in DEATH, SERI-
OUS BOD LY NJURY, OR PROPERTY DAMAGE.
AWARNING
HOTTER WATER CAN SCALD: Water heaters are
intended to produce hot water. Water heated to a temper-
ature which will satisfy space heating, clothes washing, dish
washing, and other sanitizing needs can scald and perma-
nently injure you upon contact. Some people are more like-
ly to be permanently injured by hot water than others.
These include the elderly, children, the infirm, or physical-
ly/mentally handicapped. If anyone using hot water in your
home fits into one of these groups or if there is a local code
or state law requiring a certain temperature water at the
hot water tap, then you must take special precautions. In
addition to using the lowest possible temperature setting
that satisfiesyour hot water needs, a means such as a mix-
ing valve, shall be used at the hot water taps used by these
people or at the water heater. Mixing valves are available at
plumbing supply or hardware stores. Follow manufacturers
instructions for installation of the valves. Before changing
the factory setting on the thermostat, read the
"Temperature Regulation" section in this manual.
AWARNING
WATER HEATERS EQUIPPED FOR ONE VOLTAGE
ONLY: This water heater is equipped for one type volt-
age only. Check the rating plate near the bottom access
panel for the correct voltage. DO NOT use this water
heater with any voltage other than the one shown on the
model rating plate. Failure to use the correct voltage can
cause problems which can result in DEATH, SERIOUS
BODILY INJURY, OR PROPERTY DAMAGE. If you have
any questions or doubts consult your electric company.
AWARNING
INSULATING JACKETS: When installing an external
water heater insulation jacket on an electric water heater:
a. DO NOT cover the temperature-pressure relief valve.
b. DO NOT put insulation over the access covers or any
access areas.
c. DO NOT remove operating instructions, and safety
related warning labels and materials affixed to the
water heater.
d. DO obtain new warning and instruction labels from
Sears for placement on the jacket directly over the
existing labels.
AWARNING
Do not use this appliance if anypart of it hasbeen under I
water. An electrical short or malfunction could occur.
The water heater sboud be rap aced.
A CAUTION
WATER HEATERS EVENTUALLY LEAK: Installation of
the water heater must be accomplished in such a manner
that if the tank or any connections should leak, the flow of
water will not cause damage to the structure. When such
locations cannot be avoided, a suitable drain pan should be
installed under the water heater. Drain pans are available
at your local hardware store. Such a drain pan must be
piped to an adequate drain.
2
Table of Contents
Safety Precautions ............................................................................................................................................2
Table of Contents .............................................................................................................................................3
Customer Responsibilities ...................................................................................................................4
Product Spedfications ...............................................................................................................................4
Materials and Basic Tools Needed .....................................................................................5
Materials Needed ...................................................................................................................................................................... 5
Basic "lbols ................................................................................................................................................................................ 5
Installation Instructions ....................................................................................................................6-14
Removing the Old Water Heater. ............................................................................................................................................ N
Facts m Consider About the Location ..................................................................................................................................... .7
Facts m Consider About the Convertible Element ................................................................................................................... .7
Water Piping ............................................................................................................................................................................ .8
T&P Valve and Pipe Insulation ................................................................................................................................................ .8
"l_mperature-Nessure Relief Valve ............................................................................................................................................ _
Filling the Water Hearer .......................................................................................................................................................... 10
Converting the Element ................................................................................................................................................... 10-12
Wiring Diagram ..................................................................................................................................................................... 12
Wiring .................................................................................................................................................................................... 13
Installation Checklist .............................................................................................................................................................. 14
Service and Adjustment ..............................................................................................................15-19
_l_mperature Regulation .......................................................................................................................................................... 15
Thermostats ............................................................................................................................................................................ 15
_l_mperature Settings .............................................................................................................................................................. 15
Thermostat Adjustment .......................................................................................................................................................... 15
_lhnperature Pressure Relief Valve Operation .......................................................................................................................... 16
Draining ................................................................................................................................................................................. 16
Element Cleaning/Replacement ........................................................................................................................................ 16-19
Anode Rod Inspection ............................................................................................................................................................ 19
Drain Valve Washer Replacement ........................................................................................................................................... 19
Service .................................................................................................................................................................................... 19
Troubleshooting Guide .............................................................................................................. 20-23
Start Up Conditions .............................................................................................................................................................. 20
Thermal Expansion .............................................................................................................................................................. .20
Strange Sounds .................................................................................................................................................................... .20
Operational Conditions ..................................................................................................................................................... 21,22
Smelly Water ........................................................................................................................................................................ .21
"Air" In Hot Water Faucets ................................................................................................................................................. .21
Rumbling Noise ................................................................................................................................................................... .21
High "Ihnperature Shut Of}'System ................................................................................................................................. 21,22
Not Enough or No Hot Water ............................................................................................................................................. .22
Water Is *lbo Hot ................................................................................................................................................................. .22
Leakage Checkpoints ........................................................................................................................................................... .23
Parts Order List ............................................................................................................................................26,27
Warranty.. .....................................................................................................................................................................28
3
Customer Responsibilities
Thank You for purchasing a Sears water heater.
Properly installed and maintained, it should give you years of"
trouble free service. If you should decide that you want the new
water heater professionally installed by Sears contact the local
Sears Service Center or any Sears store. They will arrange for
prompt, quality installation by Sears authorized contractors.
Abbreviations Found In This Instruction Manual
U.L.-Underwriters Laboratories Inc., 333 Pfingsten Rd.,
Northbrook, IL 60062
NEC - National Electrical Code
ANSI -American National Standards Institute
• Read the "Safety Precautions" section of this manual first and
then the entire manual carefully, lfyou don't follow the safe-
ty rules, the water heater will not operate properly. It could
cause DEATH, SERIOUS BODILY INJURY AND/OR
PROPERTY DAMAGE.
This manual contains instructions for the installation, opera-
tion, and maintenance of this electric water heater. It also
contains warnings throughout the manual that you must
read and be aware of. Allwarnings and all instructions are
essential to the proper operation of the water heater and your
safety. Since we cannot put everything on the first few pages,
READ THIS ENTIRE MANUAL BEFORE ATTEMPT-
ING TO INSTALL OR OPERATE THE WATER
HEATER.
The installation must conform with the instructions in the
manual; electric company rules; and Local Codes, or in the
absence of Local Codes, with the current edition of the
National Electrical Code. This publication is available from
your local government or public library or electric company
or by writing Underwriters Laboratories, 333 Pfingsten Road,
Northbrook, IL 60062.
If after reading this manual you have any questions or do not
understand any portion of the instructions, call Sears Service
Center.
Carefully plan the place where you are going to put the water
heater. Correct electrical wiring and connections are very
important in preventing death from possible electrical shock
and fires.
Examine the location to ensure the water heater complies with
the "Facts to Consider About the Location" section.
For California installation this water heater must be braced,
anchored, or strapped to avoid falling or moving during an
earthquake. See instructions for correct installation proce-
dures. Instructions may be obtained from your local dealer,
wholesaler, public utilities or California Office of the State
Architect, 400 P Street, Sacramento, CA 95814.
• Massachusetts Code requires this water heater to be installed
in accordance with Massachusetts 248-CMR 2.00: State
Plumbing Code and 248-CMR 5.00.
Product Specifications
MODEL
NUMBER
153.318031
153.318131
TANK
CAPACITY
IN GALLONS
27
4O
DIMENSIONS IN INCHES
WIDTH DEPTH HEIGHT
21" 25" 36"
24" 25" 36"
RECOVERYRATE
GALS.PER HOUR
@90°E RISE
17.3
25.0
17.3
25.0
ELEMENT
WATTAGE
AT 240 VOLTS
3800
5500
3800
5500
MINIMUM
WIRE SIZE*
(GAUGE)
12
10
12
10
MAXIMUM FUSE
OR CIRCUIT
B_AKER
SIZE (AMPS)
20
30
20
30
*Wiring size based on standard 60°C. copper wire. If distance from fuse box to water heater is more than 90 feet, refer to your local electrical
code.
4
Materials and Basic Tools Needed
Materials Needed
_b simplify the installation Sears has available the installation
parts shown below. You may or may not need all of these materi-
als, depending on your type of installation.
WATER HEATER INSTALLA-
TION KIT WITH FLEXIBLE
CONNECTORS FOR 3/4" OR
I/2" THREADED OR SWEAT
COPPER PLUMBING
WATER HEATER HEAT TRAPS
HELP REDUCE HEAT LOSS
DUE TO THERMAL
SYPHONING
EXPANSION TANKS FOR THERMAL
EXPANSION CONDITIONS AVAILABLE IN
2 GALLON AND 5 GALLON CAPACITY
THROUGH LOCAL SEARS SERVICE CENTERS
Basic Tools
You may or may not need all of these tools, depending on your
type of installation. These tools can be purchased at your local
Sears store.
Pipe Wrench (2)
Screwdriver
6 Foot Tapeor FoldingRule
Garden Hose
Drill
Pipe Dope or Teflon Tape
6 FOOT TAPE
GARDEN HOSE
SLOT-HEAD SCREW DRIVER
j
PHILLIPS SCREWDRIVER
PIPE
WRENCH
PIPE DOPE (SQUEEZE TUBE) _
roll of teflon tape DRILL
(Use only on water connec-
tions)
ADDITIONAL TOOLS NEEDED
WHEN SWEAT SOLDERING
TubingCutters or Hacksaw
Propane Torch
Soft Solder
Solder Flux
Emery Cloth
Wire Brushes
HACKSAW
3/4" WIRE BRUSH
1/2" WIRE BRUSH
PROPANE TORCH
ROLL OF LEAD FREE
SOFT SOLDER
ROLL OF EMERY SOLDER TUBING
CLOTH FLUX CUTTER
Installation Instructions
Removing the Old Water
Heater
Q_hrn "OFF" electrical supply to the water heater.
Q'fhrn "OFF" the water supply to the water heater at the
water shutoff"valveor water meter.
Q a. you copper piping to water two
If have the
heater, the
copper water pipes can be cut with a hacksaw approxi-
mately four inches away from where they connect to the
water heater. This willavoid cutting off"the pipes too
short. Additional cuts can be made later if necessary.
Disconnect the temperature-pressure relief valve drain
line. When the water heater is drained, disconnect the
hose from the drain valve. Close the drain valve.The
water heater is now completely disconnected and ready to
be removed.
QAttach hose the heater drain
a to water
valve and put the other end in a floor
drain or outdoors. Open the water heater
drain valve. Open a nearby hot water
faucet which will relieve pressure in the
water heater and speed draining.
_,WARNING J
The water passing out of the drain valve may be
extremely hot. To avoidbeing scalded,make sure all con-
nections are tight and that the water flow is directed
awayfrom anyperson.
Q Check, again to sure supply is
make the electrical turned
OFF to the water heater. Remove cabinet top by pulling
the top forward, all the way until it is free. Then disconnect
the electrical supply connection from the water heater junc-
tion box.
electric supply
/
Qb. If you have galvanized pipe to
the water heater, loosen the two
galvanized pipes with a pipe
wrench at the union in each
line. Also disconnect the piping
remaining to the water heater.
These pieces should be saved
since they may be needed when
reconnecting the new water
heater. Disconnect the tempera-
ture-pressure relief valve drain
line. When the water heater is
drained, disconnect the hose
from the drain valve. Close the
drain valve.The water heater is
now completely disconnected
and readyto be removed.
_, CAUTION J
Mineral buildup or sediment may have accumulated in J
the old water heater. This causesthe water heater to be I
much heavier than normal and this residue, if spilledout,
couldcausestaining.
wire nuts
- green
ground
screw
Installation Instructions (cont'd)
Facts to Consider About the
Location
Facts to Consider About The
Convertible Element
You should carefully choose an indoor location for the new
water heater, because the placement is a very important consid-
eration for the safety of the occupants in the building and for
the most economical use of the appliance. This water heater is
not intended for outdoor installation.
Whether replacing an old water heater or putting the water
heater in a new location, the following critical points must he
observed.
• The location selected should be indoors as close to and as cen-
tralized with the water piping system as possible. This water
heater, as well as all water heaters, will eventually leak. Do not
install without adequate drainage provisions where water flow
will cause damage.
A CAUTION
WATER HEATERS EVENTUALLY LEAK: Installation of
the water heater must be accomplished in such a man-
ner that if the tank or any connections should leak, the
flow of water will not cause damage to the structure.
When such locations cannot be avoided, a suitable drain
pan should be installed under the water heater. Drain
pans are available at your local hardware store. Such a
drain pan must be piped to an adequate drain.
The element of the water heater can be converted from operation
at 3800 watts to 5500 watts on a 240 volt system.
Read and follow water heater warnings and instructions. If this
manual is missing contact the retailer or manufacturer.
If after reading these instructions in this manual, if you do not
understand any portion, call the Sears Service Center.
AWARNING
Before making the conversion to 5500 watts, check the
(I) power supply..must be 240 volts, (2) wiring...10
gauge AWG, Type TW, 60°C or equivalent, and (3)
Circuit breakers or fusing...capable of 30 amp loading.
Also, the installation must conform with this manual,
local codes and electric utility rules. Failure to comply
can result in DEATH, SERIOUS BODILY INJURY, OR
PROPERTY DAMAGE.
A CAUTION
INSTALLATION IN RESIDENTIAL GARAGES: The I
water heater must be located andlor protected so it is
not subject to physca damage by a mov ng veh c e.
• The location selection must provide adequate clearances for
servicing and proper operation of the water heater.
NOTE: Whether or not the element conversion is made the
model rating plate must be marked. Using a hard point ink
pen, check the appropriate block within the model rating
plate, which is located adjacent to the lower access panel.
Installation Instructions (cont'd)
Water Piping
*AWARNING
HOTTER WATER CAN SCALD: Water heaters are
intended to produce hot water. Water heated to a tem-
perature which will satisfy space heating, clothes wash-
ing, dish washing, and other sanitizing needs can scald
and permanently injure you upon contact. Some people
are more likely to be permanently injured by hot water
than others. These include the elderly, children, the
infirm, or physically/mentally handicapped. If anyone
using hot water in your home fits into one of these
groups or if there is a local code or state law requiring a
certain temperature water at the hot water tap, then
you must take special precautions. In addition to using
the lowest possible temperature setting that satisfies
your hot water needs, a means such as a mixing valve,
shall be used at the hot water taps used by these people
or at the water heater. Mixing valves are available at
plumbing supply or hardware stores. Follow manufactur-
ers instructions for installation of the valves. Before
changing the factory setting on the thermostat, read the
"Temperature Regulation" section in this manual.
Look at the top cover of the water heater. The water outlet is
marked hot. Put two or three turns of teflon tape around the
threaded end of the threaded-to-sweat coupling and around
both ends of the _" threaded nipple. Using flexible connec-
tors, connect the hot water pipe to the hot water outlet on
the water heater.
Look at the top cover of the water heater. The cold water
inlet is marked cold. Put two or three turns of teflon tape
around the threaded end of the threaded-to-sweat coupling
and around both ends of the _" threaded nipple. Using flexi-
ble connectors, connect the cold water pipe to the coldwater
inlet of the water heater.
NOTE: Your water heater is super insulated to minimize
heat loss from the tank. Further reduction in heat loss
can be accomplished by insulating the hot water lines
from the water heater.
INSTALLATION COMPLETED
USING THE INSTALLATION KIT
HOT WATER A
OUTLET J
TEMPERED
WATEROU
FROM HOT
*MIXING VALVE WATER OUTLET
ON WATER HEATER
COLD WATER
ro COLD WATER
INLET ON
WATER HEATER
NOTE: This piping arrangement would have to be done at some
convenient location away from the table top water heater.
The illustration shows the attachment of the water piping to the
water heater. The water heater is equipped with Yd'water con-
nections.
VALVE
INLET
WATER
LINE
If a water heater is installed in a closed water supply system;
such as one having a back-flow preventer, check valve, water
meter with a check valve, etc...in the cold water supply; means
shall be provided to control thermal expansion. Contact the DISCHARGE _
PIPE
local utility or Sears Service Center on how to control this situa- (Do not cap
tion. or plug)
NIPPLE
NOTE: If using copper tubing, solder tubing to an adapter
before attaching the adaptor to the cold water inlet connec-
tion. Do not solder the cold water supply line directly to the
cold water inlet. It will harm the dip tube and damage the
tank.
• _I_keoff the cabinet top to make all the water and electrical
connections. Pull the cabinet top forward, all the way until it
is free. xY./henreplacing the top, put it on the clips, almost to
the back, push down and then push back.
FLEXIBLE
WATER
CONNECTORS
3/4"
"THREADED
NIPPLE
_THREADED TO
' SWEAT COUPLING
Installation Instructions (cont'd)
Temperature-Pressure
Relief Valve
_,WARNING
At the time of manufacture this water heater was provided
with a combination temperature-pressures relief valve certi-
fied by a nationally recognized testing laboratory that main-
tains periodic inspection of production of listed equipment
or materials, as meeting the requirements for Relief Valves
and Automatic Gas Shutoff Devices for Hot Water Supply
Systems, and the current edition of ANSI Z21.22, CSA 4.4
and the code requirements of ASME. If replaced, the valve
must meet the requirements of local codes, but not less
than a combination temperature and pressure relief valve
certified as meeting the requirements for Relief Valves and
Automatic Gas Shutoff Devices for Hot Water Supply
Systems, ANSI Z21.22 • CSA 4.4 by a nationally recognized
testing laboratory that maintains periodic inspection of pro-
duction of listed equipment or materials.
The valve must be marked with a maximum set pressure
not to exceed the marked hydrostatic working pressure of
the water heater (150 Ibsdsq. in.) and a discharge capacity
not less than the water heater input rate as shown on the
model rating plate. (Electric heaters - watts divided by 1000
x 3412 equal BTU/Hr. rate.)
Your local jurisdictional authority, while mandating the use
of a temperature-pressure relief valve complying with ANSI
Z21.22 • CSA 4.4 and ASME, may require a valve model dif-
ferent from the one furnished with the water heater.
Compliance with such local requirements must be satisfied
by the installer or end user of the water heater with a locally
prescribed temperature-pressure relief valve installed in the
designated opening in the water heater in place of the facto-
ry furnished valve.
For safe operation of the water heater, the relief valve must
not be removed from it's designated opening or plugged.
The temperature-pressure relief valve must be installed
directly into the fitting of the water heater designated for
the relief valve. Position the valve downward and provide
tubing so that any discharge will exit only within 6 inches
above, or at any distance below the structural floor. Be cer-
tain that no contact is made with any live electrical part.
The discharge opening must not be blocked or reduced in
size under any circumstances. Excessivelength, over 30 feet,
or use of more than four elbows can cause restriction and
reduce the discharge capacity of the valve.
No valve or other obstruction is to be placed between the
relief valve and the tank. Do not connect tubing directly to
discharge drain unless a 6" air gap is provided. To prevent
bodily injury, hazard to life, or property damage, the relief
valve must be allowed to discharge water in quantities
should circumstances demand. If the discharge pipe is not
connected to a drain or other suitable means, the water flow
may causeproperty damage.
The Discharge Pipe:
• Must not be smaller in size than the outlet pipe sizeof
the valve, or have any reducing couplings or other
restriction.
• Must not be plugged or blocked.
• Must be of material listed for hot water distribution.
• Must be installed so as to allow complete drainage of
both the temperature-pressure relief valve, and the dis-
charge pipe.
• Must terminate at an adequate drain.
• Mustnothaveanyvalvebotweenthereliefvalveandtank.
_,WARNING
The temperature-pressure relief valve must be manually
operated at least once a year. Caution should be taken to
ensure that (I) no one is in front of or around the outlet
of the temperature-pressure relief valve discharge line,
and (2) the water manually discharged will not cause any
bodily injury or property damage because the water may
be extremely hot.
If after manually operating the valve, it fails to complete-
ly reset and continues to release water, immediately,
close the cold water inlet to the water heater, follow the
draining instructions, and replace the temperature-pres-
sure relief valve with a new one.
TEMPERATURE-PRESSURE
RELIEF VALVE
DISCHARGE
PIPE
(Do not cap
or plug)
6 ,f
AIR GAP
FLOOR DRAIN
9
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