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o S Rs
Electric
i!i_! 7
Water Heater N
Owners
Manual
MODEL NOS.
153.313130 30 Gal.
153.313230 40 Gal.
153.313330 30 Gal.
153.313430 40 Gal.
153.313530 52 Gal.
Z
0
GAMA certification applies to all
residential electric water heaters
with capacities of 20 to 120 Gallons.
Input rating of 12 Kw or less at a
voltage no greater than 250 V.
• Installation • OperatiOnwARN,NG" Repair Parts
READ THE GENERAL SAFETY SECTION BEGINNING ON INSIDE COVER AND
THEN THIS ENTIRE MANUAL BEFORE INSTALLING OR OPERATING THIS
WATER H EATER.
Save this Manual for Future Reference.
LU
L
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General Safety ..................................................................................................................................2
Table of Contents ......................................................... 3
Introduction ....................................................................................................4
Specifications ...........................................................................
Preparing for the New Installation ..................................................................
Materials and Basic Tools Needed ....................................................................
Materials Needed .................................................................................................................................................. 5
Basic Tools ............................................................................................................................................................ 5
Removing the Old Water Heater ........................................................................
Locating the New Water Heater .........................................................................7
Facts to Consider About the Location .................................................................................................................... 7
Installing the New Water Heater .............................................8-11
Water Piping ......................................................................................................................................................... 8
Temperature-Pressure Relief Valve ......................................................................................................................... 9
Filling the Water Heater ....................................................................................................................................... 10
Wiring Diagram ................................................................................................................................................... 10
Wiring ............................................................................................................................................................ 10,11
Installation Checklist ........................................................................................................................................... 11
Temperature Regulation .................................................................................................._2
Thermostats ......................................................................................................................................................... 12
Temperature Settings ............................................................................................................................................ 12
Thermostat Adjustment ........................................................................................................................................ 12
For Your Information ........................................................... _3,_
Start Up Conditions ............................................................................................................................................. 13
Thermal Expansion ............................................................................................................................................ 13
Strange Sounds .................................................................................................................................................. 13
Operational Conditions .................................................................................................................................. 13,14
Smelly Water ..................................................................................................................................................... 13
"Air" In Hot Water Faucets ................................................................................................................................ 13
Rumbling Noise ................................................................................................................................................. 13
High Temperature Shut Off System ............................................................................................................... 13,14
Not Enough or No Hot Water ............................................................................................................................ 14
Water Is Too Hot ............................................................................................................................................... 14
Periodic Maintenance ...................................................................................................._-_8
Temperatu re-Pressu re Relief Valve Operation ...................................................................................................... 15
Draining .............................................................................................................................................................. 15
Element Cleaning/Replacement ...................................................................................................................... 16-18
Drain Valve Washer Replacement ....................................................................................................................... 18
Service ................................................................................................................................................................ 18
Leakage Checkpoints ............................................................................................................_9
Repair Parts............................................................................i.......................................................20,2_
Warranty ..................................................................... 24
About Your Warranty ........................................................................................................................................... 24
Sears Installation Policy ....................................................................................................................................... 24
Sears Installation Warranty .................................................................................................................................. 24
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Thank You forpurchasing 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 call the local Sears Service Center or any Sears
store. They will arrange for prompt, quality installation by
Sears authorized contractors.
MODEL
NUMBER
TANK
CAPACITY
IN GALLONS
DIMENSIONS IN INCHES
DIAMETER HEIGHT
RECOVERY RATE
GALS. PERHOUR
Abbreviations Found In This Instruction Manual
U.L.-Underwriters Laboratories, 333 Pfingsten Rd.,
Northbrook, IL 60062
National Electrical Code-This publication is available from
your local government or public library or electric compa-
ny or by writing to U.L. above.
A.N.S.I.-American National Standards Institute
@90°F. RISE
ELEMENT
WA-I-FAGE
AT 24O VOLTS
MINIMUM
WIRE SIZE*
(GAUGE)
MAXIMUM FUSE
OR CIRCUIT
[ BREAKER
SIZE (AMPS)
153.313130
153.313230
153.313330
153.313430
153.313530
30
40
40
30
52
22 30
24 31 _/_ 20
171/2 451/2 i 20
17_/_ 59V_ i 20
191/2 59V_ i 20
17.3
17.3
17.3
17.3
17.3
3800
3800
3800
3800
3800
12
12
12
12
12
20
I
i
I
1
*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.
1.
Read the "General Safety" section, page 2 of this manu- 3.
al first and then the entire manual carefully. If you don't
follow the safety rules, the water heater will not oper-
ate properly. It could cause DEATH, SERIOUS BODILY
INJURY AND/OR PROPERTY DAMAGE. 4.
This manual contains instructions for the installation,
operation, and maintenance of this electric water
heater. It also contains warnings throughout the manual
that you must read and be aware of. All warnings 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 5.
MANUAL BEFORE ATTEMPTING TO INSTALL OR
OPERATE THE WATER HEATER.
2,
The installation must conform with the instructions in
this manual; electric company rules; and Local Codes,
or in the absence of Local Codes, with the latest edition
of the National Electrical Code. This publication is
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 com-
plies with the "Locating the New Water Heater" section.
For California installation this water heater must be
braced, anchored, or strapped to avoid falling or mov-
ing during an earthquake. See instructions for correct
installation procedures. Instructions may be obtained
from your local dealer, wholesaler, public utilities or
California office of the State Architect, 400 P Street,
Sacramento, CA 95814.
available from your local government or public library
or electric company or by writing Underwriters
Laboratories, 333 Pfingsten Road, Northbrook, IL
60062.
4
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Materials Needed
To simplify the installation Sears has available the installa_
tion parts shown below. You may or may not need all of
these materials, depending on your type of installation.
m
cz_
Compression
Couplings
compression couplings for connecting to
WATER HEATER INSTALLATION
KIT WITH FLEXIBLE CONNEC-
TORS FOR 3/4" GALVANIZED
OR 1/2 '1PLUMBING
copper plumbing without sweat so|-
WATER HEATER HEAT TRAPS
HELP REDUCE HEAT LOSS DUE
TO THERMAL SYPHONING
dering
m
Water Heater
Heat Traps
EXPANSION TANKS FOR THERMAL EXPAN-
SION CONDITIONS AVAILABLE IN 2 GALLON
AND 5 GALLON CAPACITY THROUGH LOCAL
20" DIAMETER DRAIN PAN FOR
WATER HEATERS 18" IN
DIAMETER AND UNDER
SEARS SERVICE CENTERS
28" DIAMETER DRAIN PAN FOR
WATER HEATERS 26" IN
DIAMETER AND UNDER
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 Tape or Folding Rule
Garden Hose
Drill
Pipe Dope or Teflon Tape
GARDEN HOSE
SLOT-HEAD SCREW DRIVER
PHILLIPS SCREWDRIVER
PIPE DOPE (SQUEEZE TUBE) _.//
(Use only on water connections)
6 FOOT TAPE
PIPE
WRENCH
roll of teflon tape DRILL
ADDITIONAL TOOLS NEEDED WHEN
SWEAT SOLDERING
Tubing Cutters or Hacksaw
Propane Torch
Soft Solder
Solder Flux
Emery Cloth
Wire Brushes
HACKSAW
3/4" WIRE BRUSH
1/2" WIRE BRUSH
ROLL OF LEAD
FREE SOFT SOLDER
ROLL OF EMERY
CLOTH
SOLDER FLUX
PROPANE TORCH
TUBING CUTTER
1
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Turn "OFF" electrical supply to the water heater.
I
Q Turn "OFF" the water supply to the
water heater at the water shutoff
valve or water meter.
Attach a hose to the water heater
drain 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.
©
©
a.
©
If you have copper piping to the water
heater, the two copper water pipes can
be cut with a hacksaw approximately
four inches away from where they con-
nect to the water heater. This will
avoid cutting off the pipes too short.
Additional cuts can be made later if
necessary. Disconnect the tempera-
ture-pressure relief valve drain line.
When the water heater is drained, dis-
connect the hose from the drain valve.
Close the drain valve. The water heater
is now completely disconnected and
ready to be removed.
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 need-
ed when reconnecting the new
water heater. Disconnect the
temperature-pressure relief
valve drain line. When the
water heater is drained, discon-
nect the hose from the drain
valve. Close the drain valve.
The water heater is now com-
pletely disconnected and ready
to be removed.
WARNING
The water passing out of the drain valve may be
extremely hot. To avoid being scalded, make
sure all connections are tight and that the
water flow is directed away from any person.
Q Check to make the electrical
disconnect the electrical supply connection
from the water heater junction box.
again
ply is turned "OFF" to the water heater. Then
sure
sup-
CAUTION
Mineral buildup or sediment may have accumu-
lated in the old water heater. This causes the
water heater to be much heavier than normal and
this residue, if spilled out, could cause staining.
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Facts to Consider About the
Location
You should carefully choose an indoor location for the
new water heater, because the placement is a very impor-
tant consideration for the safety of the occupants in the
building and for the most economical use of the appli-
ance. 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 be observed.
1. The location selected should be indoors as close to and
as centralized with the water piping system as possible.
This water heater, as well as all water heaters, will even-
tually leak. Do not install without adequate drainage
provisions where water flow will cause damage.
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 Sears Store. Such a drain pan
must be piped to an adequate drain. Under no circum-
stances is the manufacturer or Sears to be held liable for
any water damage in connection with this water heater.
CAUTION
INSTALLATION IN RESIDENTIAL GARAGES: The water
heater must be located and/or protected so it is not
subject to physical damage by a moving vehicle.
2. The location selection must provide adequate clear-
ances for servicing and proper operation of the water
heater.
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Water Piping
WARNING
HOTTER WATER CAN SCALD: Water heaters are intend-
ed to produce hot water. Water heated to a temperature
which will satisfy clothes washing, dish washing, and
other sanitizing needs can scald and permanently injure
you upon contact. Some people are more likely to beper-
manently 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, some type of temper-
ing device, such as a mixing valve, should 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 set-
ting on the thermostat, read the Temperature
Regulation" section in this manual.
The illustration shows the attachment of the water piping
to the water heater. The water heater is equipped with 3/4
inch water connections.
If a water heater is installed in a closed water supply sys-
tem; such as one having a back-flow preventer, check
valve, water meter with a check valve, etc. in the cold
water supply; means must be provided to control thermal
expansion. Contact the local utility or Sears Service
Center on how to control this situation.
HOT OUTLET
TO HOUSE
t
THREADED TO
SWEAT COUPLING
3/4"THREADED _
NIPPLE
Installation completed using
Sears Installation Kit.
FLEXIBLE
WATER
CONNECTORS
TvLo
THREADED TO
SWEAT COUPLING
_3/4"THREADED
j TEMPERATURE-
• RELIEF VALVE
COLD INLET
WATER LINE
NIPPLE
PRESSURE
NOTE: If using copper tubing, solder tubing to an
adapter before attaching the ad_aptor to the cola water
inlet connection. Do not solder the cold water supply
line directly to the cold water inlet. It will harm the clip
tube and damage the tank.
1. 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 3/4"threaded nip-
ple. Using flexible connectors, connect the hot water
pipe to the hot water outlet on the water heater.
2. 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 3/4"thread-
ed nipple. Using flexible connectors, connect the cold
water pipe to the cold water inlet of the water heater.
NOTE: This water heater is 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.
DISCHARGE PIPE
(Do not cap or plug)
6" AIR GAP
FLOOR DRAIN
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Temperature-Pressure Relief Valve WARNING
The temperature-pressure relief valve must be manual-
ly operated at least once a year. Caution should be
WARNING
At the time of manufacture this water heater was provided
with a combination temperature-pressuresrelief 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 latest edition of ANSI Z21.22 and the code
requirements of ASME. If replaced, the valve must meet the
requirementsof local codes, but not lessthan a combination
temperature and pressure relief valve certified asmeeting the
requirements for Relief Valves and Automatic Gas Shutoff
Devices for Hot Water Supply Systems,ANSI Z21.22 by a
nationally recognized testing laboratory that maintains peri-
odic inspectionof production of listed equipment or materi-
als.
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 discharge capacity not
lessthan the water heater input rate as shown on the model
rating plate. (Electric heaters - wattsdivided by 1000 x 3415
equal BTU/Hr. rate.)
Your local jurisdictional authority, while mandating the use
of a temperature-pressure relief valve complying with ANSI
Z21.22 and ASME, may require a valve model different 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 removedfrom it's designatedopening or plugged.
The temperature-pressure relief valve must be installed
directly into the fittingof the water heater designatedfor the
relief valve. Positionthe 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 certain 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 useof more
than four elbows can cause restriction and reduce the dis-
charge 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 unlessa 6" air gap is provided. To prevent
bodily J_njury,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 cause property damage.
The Discharge Pipe:
--Must not I_e smaller in size than the outlet pipe size of the
valve, or have any reducing couplingsor 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 discharge
pipe.
--Must terminate at an adequate drain.
--Must not have any valve between the relief valve and tank.
taken to ensure that (1) no one is in front of or around
the outlet of the temperature-pressure relief valve dis-
charge 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 com-
pletely rest and continues to release water, immediate-
ly, close the cold water inlet to the water heater, follow
the draining instructions, and replace the temperature-
pressure relief valve with a new one.
co
DRAIN VALVE
FLOOR DRAIN
WARNING "RELIEF VALVE OPENING"
This water heater is provided with a combinaUon Temperature-Pressure Relief Valve _istedas coml_ymg with
the standard for Relief Valves and Automatfu Gas Shutoff Devices for Hot Water Supply Systems, ANSZ21.22
and the code requirements of ASME.
YourtocaHudsdi_onalauthedty,whitemandahngtheuseofa Temperature-PressureReliefValvecomplying
with ANS Z21,22 and ASME, may require avalve model different from the one furnished w_ththe water heater
Compliance _th such local requirements must be satisfied by the installer or end user o[ the water heater with
a locally prescribed Temperature-Pressure Relief Valve installed in the designated opening in the water
heater.
T&P BELIEF .... _ II_'--Y'_D_/'_
VALVEPROBE_qllll al I I II m_'TEMPERATURE-
MUSTEXTEND'----'----'TllH, ,---11_111II, t_Jtim '_PRESSURE
• If a short shank (less than 2") temperature-pressure relief valve is to be instalted
(as shown), a nipple and coupling must be used.
• I1 a long shank (2" or longer) is to be installed, do not use the nipple and coupling.
"Install Temperatsre-Presoure protechve equipment required by local codes, but not less than a combina-
tion Temperature-Pressure Relief Valve certified as meeting the requirements for Reliel Valves and
Automatic Gas Shutoff Devices for Hot-Water Supply Systems, ANS Z2122 by a nationally recognized leaf
ing taberatory that maintains periedto inspection of production of listed equipment or matenals The valve
must be oriented, provided with tubing, or othe_ise installed so that discharge can exit only within 6 inches
above, or at any distance below the structural floor, and cannot contact any live electhcal pad '
For safe operation of the water heater, the Relief Valve must not be removed or plugged
See manual heading - "Temperature-Pressure Relief Valve" for inslallation and maintenance e_ Reliet
Valve, discharge pipe and other safety precautions.
TANKI_' ; :' _ ,, t:, I JACKET
TANK _..,_'/1-_,_ '_',1 BRASS
FITTING _COUPLING
SHUT-OFF
VALVE
:_ TEMPERATU RE-
PRESSURE
EF VALVE
I--- DISCHARGE PIPE
(Do not cap or plug)
1
6" AIR GAP
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Filling the Water Heater
Wiring
To fill the water heater with water:
1. Close the water heater drain valve by turning the han-
dle to the right (clockwise). The drain valve is on the
lower front of the water heater.
2. Open the cold water supply valve to the water heater.
NOTE: The cold water supply valve must be left open
when the water heater is in use.
3. To insure complete filling of the tank, allow air to exit
by opening the nearest hot water faucet. Allow water to
run until a constant flow is obtained. This will let air
out of the water heater and the piping.
CAUTION
Never use this water heater unless it is completely
filled with water. To prevent damage to the tank and
heating element, the tank must be filled with water.
Water must flow from the hot water faucet before
turning "ON" power.
4. Check all new water piping for leaks. Repair as needed.
Wiring Diagram
STANDARD WIRING FOR
2 WIRE LEAD WATER HEATERS
240 VOLT SINGLE ELEMENT
TO ELECTRIC
POWER SUPPLY
CAUTION
Never use this water heater unless it is completely full of
water. To prevent damage to the tank andheatlng ele-
ment, the tank must be filled with water. Water must
flow from the hot water faucet before turning "on"
power.
You must provide all wiring of the proper size outside of
the water heater. You must obey local codes and electric
company requirements when you install this wiring.
If you are not familiar with electric codes and practices, or
if you have any doubt, even the slightest doubt, in your
ability to connect the wiring to this water heater, obtain
the service of a competent electrician. Contact your Sears
salesperson to arrange for a professional electrician.
WARNING
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.
BLAC
IKI I'UNcg'°N
RED
k3
<
LOWER
ATING ELEMENT
CAUTION
If wiring from your fuse box or circuit breaker box was
aluminum for your old water heater, replace it with cop-
per wire. If you wish to reuse the existing aluminum
wire, have the connection at the water heater made by a
competent electrician. Contact your Sears salesperson to
arrange for a professional electrician.
1.
Provide a way to easily shut off the electric power
when working on the water heater. This could be with
a circuit breaker or fuse block in the entrance box or a
separate disconnect switch.
2.
Install and connect a circuit directly from the main fuse
or circuit breaker box. This circuit must be the right
size and have its own fuse or circuit breaker. Refer to
the chart in the "Specifications" section for the correct
size wire and fuse or circuit breaker.
3. If metal conduit is used for the grounding conductor:
A. The grounding electrode conductor shall be of cop-
per, aluminum, or copperclad aluminum. The mate-
rial shall be of one continuous length without a
splice or joint.
10
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Installation Checklist
B.Rigidmetalconduit,intermediatemetalconduit,or
electricalmetallictubingmaybeusedfor the
groundingmeansif conduitortubingisterminated
infittingsapprovedforgrounding.
C.Flexiblemetalconduitor flexiblemetallictubing
shallbepermittedforgroundingifallthefollowing
conditionsaremet:
1.Thelengthinanygroundreturnpathdoesnot
exceed6feet.
2.Thecircuitconductorscontainedthereinarepro-
tectedbyovercurrentdevicesratedat20amperes
orless.
3. Theconduitortubingisterminatedinfittings
approvedforgrounding.
Forcompletegroundingdetailsandallallowable
exceptions,referto thelatesteditionof the
NationalElectricalCode.
4.Astandard'/2"conduitopeninghasbeenmadeinthe
waterheaterjunctionboxfortheconduitconnection.
5.Usewirenutsandconnectthepowersupplywiringto
thewiresinsidethewaterheater'sjunctionbox.
6.Thewaterheatermustbeelectrically"grounded"by
theinstaller.Agreengroundscrewhasbeenprovided
on thewaterheater'sjunctionbox.Connectground
wiretothislocation.
1. Is the fuse or circuit breaker size correct as shown in
the chart in the "Specifications" section?
2. Are the wires from the circuit breaker or fuse service to
the water heater's junction box on the correct wire
size (gauge) as shown in the chart in the
"Specifications" section?
3. Is the new temperature-pressure relief valve properly
installed, and piped to an adequate drain? See
"Temperature-Pressure Relief Valve" section.
4. Is the water heater completely filled with water? See
"Filling the Water Heater" instructions in the "Installing
the New Water Heater" section.
5. Will a water leak damage anything? See "Locating the
New Water Heater" section.
6. Are the cold and hot water lines connected to the water
heater correctly? See "Water Piping" instructions in the
"Installing the New Water Heater" section.
7. Is there adequate clearance for maintenance around
the water heater?
8. Do you need to call your electric company to check
your wiring?
HOT ZOLD
7. Replacethewiringjunctioncoverusingthe screw
provided.
NUTS
' GREEEN
GROUND
SCREW
TEMPERATURE-
PRESSURE
RELIEF VALVE
MODEL _-'_1
RATING PLATE
r= =w_..F_CTRIC _)TER HEATER
t J I !
--DISCHARGE PIPE
(Do not cap or
plug)
6"AIR GAP
11 FLOOR DRAIN
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WARNING
HOTTER WATER CAN SCALD: Water heaters are intended
to produce hot water. Water heated to a temperature
which will satisfy clothes washing, dish washing, and
other sanitizing needs can scald and permanently injure
you upon contact. Some people are more likely to be per-
manently 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, some type of tempering device,
such as a mixing valve, should 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 of the
thermostat, read the "Temperature Regulation" section in
this manual.
WARNING
Never allow small children to use a hot water tap, or to
draw their own bath water. Never leave a child or handi-
capped person unattended in a bathtub or shower.
Temperature Settings
HOT-Is a thermostat setting of approximatel\
120°F, which will supply hol water at the
most economical temperatures.
A-Is a thermostat setting of approximatel\
130°F.
B-Is a thermostat setting of approximatel_
140°F. This is the lowest setting for supply of
hot water to dishwashers.
C-Is a thermostat setting of approximately
150°F.
VERY HOT-Is a thermostat setting of approximately
t 60°F. It is recommended that the dial be set
lower whenever possible.
NOTE: Residential electric water heaters will not supply
sanitizing hot water for dishwashers.
Thermostat Adjustment
The thermostat is adjustable if a different water tempera-
ture is desired. Read all warnings in the "Temperature-
Regulation" section before proceeding.
Thermostats
The thermostat of this water heater has been factory set at
the lowest position which approximates 120°F (Hot) to
reduce the risk of scald injury.
The thermostat is factory set at its lowest position which
approximates 120°F (Hot) and is adjustable if a different
water temperature is desired. Read all warnings in this
manual and on the water heater before proceeding.
©
@
The thermostat pointer can be turned clockwise (_,__j{ i
to increase the temperature setting or counter cFock-
wise (k,,.___) to decrease the temperature setting, with a
small flat tip screwdriver.
THERMOSTAT ADJUSTABLE
THROUGH OPENING IN ACCESS PANEL
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Start Up Conditions
THERMAL EXPANSION
Water supply systems may, because of such events as high
line pressure, frequent cut-offs, the effects of water ham-
mer among others, have installed devices such as pressure
reducing valves, check valves, back flow preventers,
etc...to control these types of problems. When these
devices are not equipped with an internal by-pass, and no
other measures are taken, the devices cause the water sys-
tem to be closed. As water is heated, it expands (thermal
expansion) and closed systems do not allow for the expan-
sion of heated water.
The water within the water heater tank expands as it is
heated and increases the pressure of the water system. If
the relieving point of the water heater's temperature-pres-
sure relief valve is reached, the valve will relieve the
excess pressure. The temperature-pressure relief valve is
not intended for the constant relief of thermal expansion.
This is an unacceptable condition and must be corrected.
It is recommended that any devices installed which could
create a closed system, have a by-pass and/or the system
have an expansion tank to relieve the pressure built by
thermal expansion in the water system. Expansion tanks
are available for ordering through the Sears Service
Center. Contact the local plumbing inspector, water sup-
plier and/or Sears Service Center for assistance in control-
ling these situations.
STRANGE SOUNDS
Possible noises due to expansion and contraction of some
metal parts during periods of heat-up and cool-down do
not represent harmful or dangerous conditions.
Operational Conditions
SMELLY WATER
In each water heater there is installed at least one anode
rod (see parts section) for corrosion protection of the tank.
Certain water conditions will cause a reaction between
this rod and the water. The most common complaint asso-
ciated with the anode rod is one of a "rotten egg smell".
This odor is derived from hydrogen sulfide gas dissolved in
the water. The smell is the result of four factors which
must all be present for the odor to develop:
a. a concentration of sulfate in the supply water.
b. little or no dissolved oxygen in the water.
c. a sulfate reducing bacteria within the water heater.
(This harmless bacteria is non-toxic to humans.)
d. an excess of active hydrogen in the tank. This is
caused by the corrosion protective action of the
anode.
Smelly water may be eliminated or reduced in some water
heater models by replacing the anode(s) with one of less
active material, and then chlorinating the water heater
tank and all hot water lines. Contact the local Sears
Service Center for further information concerning an
Anode Replacement Kit #9001453 and this Chlorination
Treatment.
If the smelly water persists after the anode replacement
and chlorination treatment, we can only suggest that con-
tinuous chlorination and filtering conditioning equipment
be considered to eliminate the water problem.
Do not remove the anode leaving the tank unprotected.
By doing so, all warranty on the water heater tank is
voided.
"AIR" IN HOT WATER FAUCETS
WARNING
HYDROGEN GAS: Hydrogen gas can be produced in a
hot water system that has not been used for a long peri-
od of time (generally two weeks or more). Hydrogen gas
is extremely flammable and explosive. To prevent the
possibility of injury under these conditions, we recom-
mend the hot water faucet be opened for several min-
utes at the kitchen sink before any electrical appliances
which are connected to the hot water system are used
(such as a dishwasher or washing machine). If hydrogen
gas is present, there will probably be an unusual sound
similar to air escaping through the pipe as the hot water
faucet is opened. There must be no smoking or open
flame near the faucet at the time it is open.
RUMBLING NOISE
In some water areas, scale or mineral deposits will build
up on your heating elements. This buildup will cause a
rumbling noise. Follow "Element Cleaning/Replacement"
instructions to clean and replace the elements.
HIGH TEMPERATURE SHUT OFF SYSTEM
The water heater has a high limit shut off system with a
reset button located on the thermostat.
Follow the resetting instructions which refer to the high
limit behind the access panel.
1. Before beginning, turn "OFF" electrical power supply
to the water heater.
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Operational Conditions
HIGH TEMPERATURE SHUT OFF SYSTEM
(cont'd))
WARNING
HAZARD OF ELECTRICAL SHOCK! Before removing
any access panels or servicing the water heater, make
sure the electrical supply is turned "off" to the water
heater. Failure to do this could result in death, serious
bodily injury, or property damage.
2. Remove the two screws securing the access panel and
remove panel.
3. Open the flap of insulation to expose theopening.
4. Reset the high limit by pushing in the red button
marked "RESET".
RESET BUTTON
NOT ENOUGH OR NO HOT WATER
.
In a new installation, the water heater may not be
properly connected. Make sure the cold water supply
valve is open. Review and check piping installation.
Make sure that the cold water line is connected to the
cold water inlet to the water heater and the hot water
line to the hot water outlet on the water heater.
2.
Make sure the electrical supply to the water heater is
"ON".
3. Check for loose or blown fuses in your water heater
circuit. Circuit breakers weaken with age and may
not handle their rated load and should be replaced.
4. Make certain the disconnect switch, if used, is in the
"ON" position.
5. Check to see the electric service to your house has
not been interrupted. If this is the case, contact the
local electric utility.
6. Are the thermostats set to the desired temperature?
See "Temperature Regulation" section.
7.
If you had experienced very hot water and now no
hot water, the problem may be due to the high tem-
perature shut off system. See "High Temperature Shut
Off System" in the "For Your Information" section.
5. Fold the insulation back in place so that it completely
covers the thermostat and element.
6. Replace the access panel.
7. Turn "ON" electric power to the water heater.
CAUTION
If the high limit must be reset again, call the Sears
Service Center to find out why the high limit turned
"OFF" the electric power.
8. During very cold weather, the incoming water will
also be colder and it will require a longer time to
become heated.
9.
The hot water usage may exceed the capacity of the
water heater. If so, wait for water heater to recover
after abnormal demand. Also examine pipes and
faucets for possible water leaks.
10. If you can not determine the problem, then call the
Sears Service Department.
WATER IS TOO HOT
Adjust the thermostat to a lower setting. See the
"Temperature Regulation" section.
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