AO Smith Water Heater 184769 000 User Guide

RESIDENTIAL  
GAS WATER HEATER  
OWNER'S MANUAL  
Thank you for buying this energy efficient water heater from  
A.O. Smith Water Products Company. We appreciate your  
confidence in our products.  
You should thoroughly read this manual before installation  
and/or operation of this water heater. Please pay particular  
attention to the important safety and operating instructions as  
well as the WARNINGS and CAUTIONS.  
TABLE OF CONTENTS  
PAGE  
GET TO KNOWYOUR WATER HEATER  
GENERAL SAFETY INFORMATION  
INSTALLATION  
2
3
4 -6  
6 -8  
OPERATION  
MAINTENANCE AND  
TROUBLESHOOTING  
8 -10  
11  
WARRANTY  
CAUTION  
TEXT PRINTED OR OUTLINED IN RED CONTAINS  
INFORMATION RELATIVE TO YOUR SAFETY. PLEASE  
READ THOROUGHLY BEFORE INSTALLING AND  
USING THIS APPLIANCE.  
ADIVISION OFA.O. SMITH CORPORATION  
KEEPTHIS MANUALIN THE POCKET ON HEATER FOR FUTURE REFERENCE  
WHENEVER MAINTENANCE ADJUSTMENT OR SERVICE IS REQUIRED.  
PRINTED IN U.S.A. 0104  
PART NO. 184769-000  
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GET TO KNOW YOUR WATER HEATER  
(A) VENTPIPE  
(B) DRAFT HOOD  
(C) ANODE  
(D) HOT WATER  
OUTLET  
(E) OUTLET  
(F) INSULATION  
(G) GAS SUPPLY  
(H) MANUAL GAS SHUT  
OFF VALVE  
(J) GROUND JOINT UNION  
(K) DIRT LEG  
(N) UNION  
O) INLETWATER SHUTOFF  
VALVE  
REPLACEMENT PARTS AND DELIMING PRODUCTS  
Replacement parts and recommended delimer may be ordered  
through authorized servicers or distributors. Refer to the Yellow  
Pages for where to call or contact A.O. Smith Water Products  
Company, 5621 W. 115th Street, Alsip, Illinois 60803,  
1-800-433-2545. When ordering parts, provide complete model  
and serial numbers (see rating plate), quantity and name of part  
desired (as listed in Figure 1). Standards hardware items may  
be purchased locally.  
(P) COLD WATER INLET  
(Q) INLETDIPTUBE  
(R) TEMPERATUREAND  
PRESSURE RELIEF VALVE  
(S) RATING PLATE  
(T) FLUE BAFFLE  
(U) THERMOSTAT  
(V) DRAIN VALVE  
(W) PILOT AND MAIN BURNER  
(X) FLUE  
(L) INNER DOOR  
(M) OUTER DOOR  
*INSTALL IN ACCORDANCE  
WITH LOCAL CODES.  
(Y) DRAIN PAN  
(U) THERMOSTAT  
CERTAIN MODELS ARE  
EQUIPPED WITH SIDE  
PLUMBING CONNECTIONS  
FOR SPACE HEATING. THE  
HOT AND COLD FITTING  
ASSEMBLIES  
(PART #900126-2).  
(W) PILOT & MAIN BURNER  
FIGURE 1  
GAS MODELS  
2
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suspected, do not attempt to find the cause yourself. Go to a  
neighbor's house, leaving your doors open to ventilate the house,  
then call your gas supplier or service agent. Keep area clear  
until a service call has been made.  
GENERAL SAFETY  
INFORMATION  
EXTERNAL DAMAGE  
At times you may not be able to smell an LP gas leak. One  
cause is odor fade, which is a loss of the chemical odorant that  
gives LP gas its distinctive smell. Another cause can be your  
physical condition, such as having a cold or a diminishing sense  
of smell with age. For these reasons, the use of a propane gas  
detector is recommended.  
The design of this gas-fired water heater complies with the  
latest version of ANSIZ21.10.1/CSA4.1 or ANSIZ21.10.3/CSA4.3  
as a automatic storage type water heater.  
Do not operate the water heater until it has been fully checked  
out by a qualified technician, if the water heater:  
IF YOU EXPERIENCE AN OUT-OF-GAS SITUATION, DO NOT  
TRY TO RELIGHT APPLIANCES YOURSELF. Ask your LP  
delivery person to relight pilots for you. Only trained LP  
professional should conduct the required safety checks in  
accordance with industry standards.  
• Has been exposed to fire or damage.  
• Displays evidence of sooting.  
• Produces steam or unusually hot water.  
If the water heater has been flooded it must be replaced.  
EXTENDED NON-USE PERIODS  
CHEMICALVAPOR CORROSION  
WARNING  
WARNING  
HYDROGEN GAS CAN BE PRODUCED IN A HOT WATER  
SYSTEM SERVED BY THIS HEATER THAT HAS NOT BEEN  
USED FOR A LONG PERIOD OF TIME (GENERALLY TWO  
WEEKS OR MORE). HYDROGEN GAS IS EXTREMELY  
FLAMMABLE. To reduce the risk of injury under these conditions,  
it is recommended that the hot water faucet be opened for several  
minutes at the kitchen sink before using any electrical appliance  
connected to the hot water system. If hydrogen is present, there  
will probably be an unusual sound such as air escaping through  
the pipe as the water begins to flow. THERE SHOULD BE NO  
SMOKING OR OPEN FLAME NEAR THE FAUCETAT THE TIME  
IT IS OPEN.  
CORROSION OF THE FLUEWAYS AND VENT SYSTEM MAY  
OCCUR IF AIR FOR COMBUSTION CONTAINS CERTAIN  
CHEMICAL VAPORS. SUCH CORROSION MAY RESULT IN  
FAILUREAND RISK OFASPHYXIATION.  
Spray can propellants, cleaning solvents, refrigerator and air  
conditioning refrigerants, swimming pool chemicals, calcium  
and sodium chloride (water softener salt), waxes, and process  
chemicals are typical compounds which are potentially  
corrosive.  
Do not store products of this sort near the heater. Also, air  
which is brought in contact with the heater should not contain  
any of these chemicals. If necessary, uncontaminated air should  
be obtained from remote or outside sources. Water heater  
failure due to a corrosive atmosphere is not covered by the  
limited warranty.  
INSULATION BLANKETS  
Insulation blankets available to the general public for external  
use on gas water heaters are not necessary with A. O. Smith  
products. The purpose of an insulation blanket is to reduce the  
standby heat loss encountered with storage tank heaters. Your  
A. O. Smith water heater meets or exceeds the National  
Appliance Energy Conservation Act standards with respect to  
insulation and standby loss requirements, making an insulation  
blanket unnecessary.  
IMPROPER COMBUSTION  
WARNING  
ATTIC AND/OR EXHAUST FANS OPERATING ON THE  
PREMISES WITH A WATER HEATER CAN RESULT IN  
CARBON MONOXIDE POISONINGAND DEATH.  
WARNING  
OPERATION OF THESE FANS CAN PRODUCE A NEGATIVE  
DRAFT IN THE AREA OF THE WATER HEATER  
PREVENTING THE PRODUCTS OF COMBUSTION FROM  
EXHAUSTING THROUGH THE CHIMNEY OR VENT PIPE.  
Should you choose to apply an insulation blanket to this heater,  
you should follow these instructions (See Figure 1 for  
identification of components mentioned below). Failure to follow  
these instructions can restrict the air flow required for proper  
combustion, potentially resulting in fire, asphyxiation, serious  
personal injury or death.  
The venting of the water heater should be inspected by a  
qualified service technician at the time of installation and  
periodically thereafter to ensure a down-draft condition does  
not exist.  
Do not apply insulation to the top of the water heater, as this  
will interfere with safe operation of the draft hood.  
DO NOT OBSTRUCT THE FLOW OF COMBUSTION AND  
VENTILATINGAIR. ADEQUATE AIR FOR COMBUSTION AND  
VENTILATION MUST BE PROVIDED FOR SAFE OPERATION.  
Do not cover the outer door, thermostat or temperature &  
pressure relief valve.  
Do not allow insulation to come within 2" of the floor to  
prevent blockage of combustion air flow to the burner.  
LIQUID PETROLEUM MODELS  
Water heaters for propane or liquefied petroleum gas (LPG)  
are different from natural gas models. A natural gas heater will  
not function safely on LP gas and no attempt should be made to  
convert a heater from natural gas to LP gas.  
Do not cover the instruction manual. Keep it on the side of  
the water heater or nearby for future reference.  
Do obtain new warning and instruction labels from A.O.Smith  
for placement on the blanket directly over the existing labels.  
LP gas must be used with great caution. It is highly explosive  
and heavier than air. It collects first in the low areas making its  
odor difficult to detect at nose level. If LP gas is present or even  
Do inspect the insulation blanket frequently to make certain it  
does not sag, thereby obstructing combustion air flow.  
3
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WARNING  
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 procedures.  
Instructions may be obtained from your local dealer, wholesaler,  
public utilities or California's Office of the State Architect,  
400 P Street, Sacramento, CA 95814.  
INSTALLATION  
REQUIRED ABILITY  
INSTALLATION OR SERVICE OF THIS WATER HEATER  
REQUIRES ABILITY EQUIVALENT TO THAT OF A LICENSED  
TRADESMAN IN THE FIELD INVOLVED. PLUMBING, AIR  
SUPPLY, VENTINGAND GAS SUPPLYARE REQUIRED.  
AIR REQUIREMENTS  
WARNING  
GENERAL  
FOR SAFE OPERATION PROVIDE ADEQUATE AIR FOR  
COMBUSTIONAND VENTILATION. AN INSUFFICIENT SUPPLY  
OF AIR WILL CAUSE RECIRCULATION OF COMBUSTION  
PRODUCTS RESULTING INAIR CONTAMINATION THAT MAY  
BE HAZARDOUS TO LIFE. SUCH A CONDITION OFTEN WILL  
RESULTINAYELLOW, LUMINOUS BURNER FLAME, CAUSING  
CARBONING OR SOOTING OF THE COMBUSTION CHAMBER,  
BURNERS, AND FLUE TUBES AND CREATES A RISK OF  
ASPHYXIATION.  
The installation must conform to these instructions and the  
local code authority having jurisdiction. In the absence of local  
codes, the installation must comply with the latest editions of  
the National Fuel Gas Code, ANSI Z223.1/NFPA 54. The code is  
available from the Canadian Standards Association,  
8501 East Pleasant Valley Road, Cleveland, OH 44131.  
LOCATION OF HEATER  
Where an exhaust fan is supplied in the same room with a  
heater, sufficient openings for air must be provided in the walls.  
UNDERSIZED OPENINGS WILL CAUSE AIR TO BE DRAWN  
INTO THE ROOM THROUGH THE CHIMNEY, CAUSING POOR  
COMBUSTION. SOOTING MAY RESULT IN SERIOUS  
DAMAGE TO THE HEATERAND RISK OF FIRE OR EXPLOSION.  
When installing the heater, consideration must be given to proper  
location. Location selected should be as close to the stack or  
chimney as practicable with adequate air supply and as  
centralized with the water piping system as possible.  
The heater is design certified for installation on combustible  
flooring in a closet having minimum clearances from  
combustible material of: 1" clearance from sides and rear,  
4" from the front and 18" from the top. (Standard clearance.)  
If clearances stated on the heater differ from standard  
clearances, install water heater according to clearances stated  
on heater.  
DO NOT OBSTRUCT THE FLOW OF COMBUSTION OR  
VENTILATINGAIR.  
REFER TO THE LATEST EDITION OF THE “NATIONAL FUEL  
GAS CODE” ANSI Z223.1/NFPA 54.  
A minimum clearance of 4" must be allowed for access to  
replaceable parts such as the thermostats, drain valve and  
relief valve.  
Adequate clearance for servicing this appliance should be  
considered before installation, such as changing the anodes,  
etc. Minimum clearances for proper operation are given above.  
CAUTION  
In cold climates provide protection against freeze-up. THE  
HEATER SHOULD BE LOCATED IN AN AREA WHERE  
LEAKAGE OF THE TANK OR CONNECTIONS WILL NOT  
RESULT IN DAMAGE TO THE AREA ADJACENT TO THE  
HEATER OR TO LOWER FLOORS OF THE STRUCTURE. When  
such locations cannot be avoided, a suitable drain pan should  
be installed under the heater, see fig. 1. The pan must not  
restrict combustion air flow. Such pans should have a minimum  
length and width of at least 2 inches greater than the diameter  
of the heater and should be piped to an adequate drain. Drain  
pans suitable for these heaters are available from your dealer  
or A. O. Smith Water Products Company, 5621 W. 115th Street,  
Alsip, Illinois 60803.  
Water heater has a main burner  
and pilot flame.  
Vapors from flammable  
liquids may explode and catch  
fire causing death or severe  
burns.  
The pilot flame:  
1. is on all the time and  
2. will ignite flammable vapors.  
Do not use or store flammable  
products such as gasoline,  
solvents or adhesives in the  
same room or area near the  
water heater.  
Vapors:  
1. Cannot be seen,  
2. are heavier than air,  
3. go along way on the floor  
and  
4. can be carried from other  
rooms to the pilot flame by  
air currents.  
Keep flammable products:  
1. far away from heater,  
2. in approved containers,  
3. tightly closed and  
WARNING  
DO NOT INSTALL THIS WATER HEATER DIRECTLY ON A  
CARPETED FLOOR. A FIRE HAZARD MAY RESULT. Instead  
the water heater must be placed on a metal or wood panel  
extending beyond the full width and depth by at least 3 inches  
(76.2mm) in any direction. If the heater is installed in a carpeted  
alcove or closet, the entire floor shall be covered by the panel.  
Also, see the drain requirements.  
4. out of children’s reach.  
Installation:  
at least 18" above the floor. This  
will reduce, but not eliminate, the  
risk of vapors being ignited by  
the main burner or pilot flame.  
Do not install water heater  
where flammable products will  
be stored or used unless the  
main burner and pilot flames are  
4
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UNCONFINED SPACE  
In buildings of conventional frame, brick or stone construction,  
unconfined spaces may provide adequate air for combustion,  
ventilation, and draft hood dilution.  
If the unconfined space is within a building of tight construction  
(building using the following construction: weather stripping,  
heavy insulation, caulking, vapor barrier, etc.), air for  
combustion, ventilation, and draft hood dilution must be obtained  
from outdoors. The installation instructions for confined spaces  
must be followed.  
CONFINED SPACE  
FIGURE 2  
When drawing combustion and dilution air from inside a  
conventionally constructed building to a confined space, such a  
space shall be provided with two permanent openings. ONE IN  
OR WITHIN 12 INCHES OF THE ENCLOSURE TOPAND ONE  
IN OR WITHIN 12 INCHES OF THE ENCLOSURE BOTTOM.  
Each opening shall have a free area of at least one square inch  
per 1000 Btuh of the total input of all appliances in the  
enclosure, but not less than 100 square inches.  
CLOSED WATER SYSTEM  
A closed system will exist if a back-flow preventer (check valve),  
pressure reducing valve, or other similar device is installed in  
the cold water line between the water heater and the street  
main (or well). Excessive pressure may develop due to the  
thermal expansion of heated water causing premature tank  
failure or intermittent relief valve operation. This type of failure  
is not covered by the limited warranty. An expansion tank may  
be necessary in the cold water supply to alleviate this situation,  
see fig. 1. Contact the local plumbing authority.  
If the confined space is within a building of tight construction, air  
for combustion, ventilation and draft hood dilution must be  
obtained from outdoors. When directly communicating with the  
outdoors or communicating through vertical ducts, two  
permanent openings, located in the above manner, shall be  
provided. Each opening shall have a free area of not less than  
one square inch per 4000 Btuh of the total input of all appliances  
in the enclosure. If horizontal ducts are used, each opening  
shall have a free area of not less than one square inch per 2000  
Btuh of the total input of all appliances in the enclosure.  
If the temperature and pressure relief valve on the appliance  
discharges periodically, this may be due to thermal expansion  
in a closed water supply system. Contact the water supplier or  
local plumbing inspector on how to correct this situation. Do  
not plug the temperature and pressure relief valve.  
GAS CONNECTIONS  
In calculating the free area of a vent opening, the blocking effect  
of screens, louvers and grills should be considered. Screens  
shall not be of a mesh smaller than 1/4 inch square. If the free  
area is not known, the latest edition of National Fuel Gas Code  
ANSI Z223.1 recommends using figures of 20-25 percent free  
area for wood louvers or 60-75 percent for metal grills or  
louvers.  
The minimum gas supply pressure for input adjustment is  
5.0" W.C. for natural gas (11.0" W.C. for propane).  
THE HEATER IS NOT INTENDED FOR OPERATIONAT HIGHER  
THAN 10.5"-NATURAL, 13.0"-PROPANE WATER COLUMN (1/2  
POUND PER SQUARE INCH [3.5 kPa]) SUPPLY PRESSURE.  
EXPOSURE TO HIGHER GAS SUPPLY PRESSURE MAY  
CAUSE DAMAGE TO THE CONTROL WHICH COULD RESULT  
IN FIRE OR EXPLOSION. If overpressure has occurred such  
as through improper testing of gas lines or emergency  
malfunction of the supply system, the control must be checked  
for safe operation. Make sure that the outside vents on the  
supply regulators and the safety vent valves are protected against  
blockage. These are parts of the gas supply system, not the  
heater. Vent blockage may occur during ice storms.  
WATER CONNECTIONS  
Refer to figure 1 for typical installation. A suitable pipe thread  
sealant must be used to prevent leakage.  
WATER (POTABLE) HEATINGAND SPACE HEATING  
For WATER HEATING (POTABLE) and SPACE HEATING:  
IT IS IMPORTANT TO GUARD AGAINST CONTROL FOULING  
FROM CONTAMINANTS IN THE GAS WAYS. SUCH FOULING  
MAY CAUSE IMPROPER OPERATION, FIRE OR EXPLOSION.  
1. All piping components connected to this unit for space  
heating applications shall be suitable for use with potable  
water.  
All piping must comply with local codes and ordinances or with  
the National Fuel Gas Code (ANSI Z223.1/NFPA-54) whichever  
applies. Copper and brass tubing and fittings (except tin lined  
copper tubing) shall not be used.  
2. Toxic chemicals, such as those used for boiler treatment,  
shall NEVER be introduced into this system.  
3. This unit may NEVER be connected to any existing heating  
system or component(s) previously used with a non-potable  
water heating appliance.  
REFER TO FIG. 1 FOR CONNECTION DETAILS. BEFORE  
ATTACHING THE GAS LINE BE SURE THATALL GAS PIPE IS  
CLEAN ON THE INSIDE.  
4. When the system requires water for space heating at  
temperatures higher than required for domestic water  
purposes, a tempering valve must be installed. Please refer  
to Fig. 2 for suggested piping arrangement.  
TO TRAP ANY DIRT OR FOREIGN MATERIAL IN THE GAS  
SUPPLY LINE, A DIRT LEG (SOMETIMES CALLED DRIP LEG)  
MUST BE INCORPORATED IN THE PIPING, FIG. 1. The dirt leg  
must be readily accessible. Install in accordance with  
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recommendations of serving gas supplier. Refer to the latest  
edition of ANSI Z223.1.  
RELIEF VALVE - FIG. 1  
A NEW TEMPERATURE AND PRESSURE RELIEF VALVE  
COMPLYING WITHTHE STANDARD FOR RELIEF VALVESAND  
AUTOMATIC GAS SHUT OFF DEVICES FOR HOT WATER  
SUPPLY SYSTEMS, ANSI Z21.22 (LATEST EDITION) MUST BE  
INSTALLED IN THE HEATER IN THE MARKED OPENING  
PROVIDED. THE VALVE MUST BE OFASIZE (INPUT RATING)  
THAT WILL BEADEQUATE FOR YOUR SIZE HEATER.  
To prevent damage, care must be taken not to apply too much  
torque when attaching gas supply pipe to thermostat gas inlet.  
The thermostat inlet has a pad for use with a backup wrench.  
Apply joint compounds (pipe dope) sparingly and only to the  
male threads of pipe joints. Do not apply compound to the first  
two threads. Use compounds resistant to the action of liquefied  
petroleum gases. Do not use teflon tape on thermostat fittings.  
Check the metal tag on the relief valve and compare it to the  
heater’s rating plate. The pressure rating of the relief valve  
must not exceed the working pressure shown on the rating  
plate of the heater. In addition, the hourly Btu rated temperature  
steam discharge capacity of the relief valve shall not be less  
than the input rating of the heater. NO VALVE ISTO BE PLACED  
BETWEEN THE RELIEF VALVE AND TANK. DO NOT PLUG  
THE RELIEF VALVE.  
DISCONNECT THE APPLIANCE AND ITS INDIVIDUAL SHUT  
OFF VALVE FROM THE GAS SUPPLY PIPING SYSTEM DURING  
ANY SUPPLY PRESSURE TESTING EXCEEDING 1/2 PSI  
(3.5 kPa). GAS SUPPLY LINE MUST BE CAPPED WHEN  
DISCONNECTED FROM THE HEATER. FOR TEST  
PRESSURES AT 1/2 PSI (3.5 kPa) OR LESS, THE APPLIANCE  
NEED NOT BE DISCONNECTED, BUT MUST BE ISOLATED  
FROM THE SUPPLY PRESSURE TEST BY CLOSING THE MAIN  
MANUALGAS VALVE.  
The drain line connected to this valve must not contain a reducing  
coupling or other restriction and must terminate near a suitable  
drain to prevent water damage during valve operation. The  
discharge line shall be installed in a manner to allow complete  
drainage of both the valve and line. DO NOT THREAD, PLUG  
OR CAP THE END OF THE DRAIN LINE.  
PIPE INSULATION - INSTALLATION  
(SELECTED MODELS)  
1. Remove pipe insulation from carton.  
BEFORE PLACING THE HEATER IN OPERATION, CHECK FOR  
GAS LEAKAGE. USE SOAPAND WATER SOLUTION OR OTHER  
MATERIALACCEPTABLE FOR THIS PURPOSE. DO NOT USE  
MATCHES, CANDLES, FLAME OR OTHER SOURCES OF  
IGNITION TO LOCATE GAS LEAKS.  
2. Fit pipe insulation over the incoming cold water line and  
the hot water line. Make sure that the insulation is against  
top cover of heater.  
DRAFT HOOD  
THE DRAFT HOOD INCLUDED WITH THE HEATER MUST BE  
INSTALLED PROPERLY FOR SAFE OPERATION.  
Locate draft hood as seen in figure 1. Position draft hood over  
the flue tube. Align the draft hood legs with the four holes  
surrounding the flue. Insert tabbed end of legs into the  
corresponding holes and twist to lock the draft hood in place.  
When installing vent piping, secure the vent pipe to the draft  
hood using at least three sheet metal screws in the draft hood  
outlet.  
FIGURE3  
VENTING  
OPERATION  
THE HEATER WITH DRAFT HOOD INSTALLEDAS SHOWN IN  
FIG. 1 MUST BE CONNECTED TOACHIMNEY OR GAS VENT.  
The vent pipe from the heater to the chimney must not be smaller  
than the outlet of the draft hood on the heater and should slope  
upward to the chimney at least 1/4 inch per foot. Do not extend  
vent pipe beyond the inside wall of the chimney.  
NEVER OPERATE THE HEATER WITHOUT FIRST BEING  
CERTAIN IT IS FILLED WITH WATER AND A TEMPERATURE  
AND PRESSURE RELIEF VALVE IS INSTALLED IN THE RELIEF  
VALVE OPENING OF THE HEATER. DO NOT ATTEMPT TO  
OPERATE HEATER WITH COLD WATER INLET VALVE CLOSED.  
For proper venting in certain installations, a field installed  
increased size vent connector and pipe size may be needed.  
Consult vent tables in the latest edition of the National Fuel Gas  
Code ANSI Z 223.1  
FILLING  
1. Close the heater drain valve by turning handle clockwise,  
Fig. 1.  
2. Open a nearby hot water faucet to permit the air in the system  
to escape.  
WARNING  
3. Fully open the cold water inlet pipe valve allowing the heater  
and piping to be filled, Fig. 1.  
4. Close the hot water faucet as water starts to flow.  
5. The heater is ready to be operated.  
NEVER OPERATE THE HEATER UNLESS IT IS VENTED TO  
THE OUTDOORSAND HASADEQUATEAIR SUPPLYTOAVOID  
RISKS OF IMPROPER OPERATION, FIRE, EXPLOSION OR  
ASPHYXIATION.  
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FOR YOUR SAFETY READ BEFORE LIGHTING  
WARNING  
If you do not follow these instructions exactly, a fire or explosion  
may result causing property damage, personal injury or loss of life.  
A. This appliance has a pilot which must be lighted by hand.  
When lighting the pilot, follow these instructions exactly.  
If you cannot reach your gas supplier, call the fire  
department.  
C. Use only your hand to push in or turn the gas control  
knob. Never use tools. If the knob will not push in or turn  
by hand, don’t try to repair it, call a qualified service  
technician. Force or attempted repair may result in a fire  
or explosion.  
B. BEFORE LIGHTING smell all around the appliance area  
for gas. Be sure to smell next to the floor because some  
gas is heavier than air and will settle on the floor.  
WHAT TO DO IF YOU SMELL GAS:  
D. Do not use this appliance if any part has been under  
water. Immediately call a qualified service technician to  
inspect the appliance and to replace any part of the  
control system and any gas control which has been  
under water.  
Do not try to light any appliance.  
Do not touch any electric switch;  
do not use any phone in your building.  
Immediately call your gas supplier from a neighbor’s  
phone. Follow the gas suppliers instructions.  
LIGHTING INSTRUCTIONS  
9. Push in control knob all the way and hold down.  
Immediately light the pilot with a match. Continue to hold  
control knob in for about one (1) minute after the pilot is  
lit. Release knob and it will pop back up. Pilot should  
remain lit. If it goes out, repeat steps 3 through 8.  
1. STOP! Read safety information above on this label.  
2. Remove outer door  
3. Set the thermostat to lowest setting by turning the water  
temperature dial clockwise (  
) to its lowest  
temperature setting (with arrow on dial) as shown. DO  
NOT FORCE.  
• If knob does not pop up when released, stop  
and immediately call your service technician  
or gas supplier.  
• If the pilot will not stay lit after several tries,  
depress and turn the gas control knob  
clockwise  
to “OFF” and call your  
service technician or gas supplier.  
4. Turn gas control knob clockwise  
to “OFF”  
position. Knob cannot be turned from “PILOT” to “OFF”  
unless knob is depressed slightly. DO NOT FORCE.  
5. Wait five (5) minutes to clear out any gas. If you  
then smell gas, STOP! Follow “B” in the safety information  
above on this label. If you don't smell gas, go to next  
step.  
10. Replace (or close) inner door. Replace outer  
door if door does not cover gas control on/off  
knob or temperature adjustment knob.  
11. At arms length away, turn gas control knob  
counter- clockwise  
to the full “ON”  
6. Remove (or open) inner door located below gas  
control unit.  
7. Find pilot - follow metal tube from gas control. The pilot  
is located in front of the burner or on the right hand  
position. WARNING: Do not use gas control  
knob to regulate gas flow.  
12. At arms length away, set the thermostat to  
desired setting. The mark  
(
)
indicative of  
side of the burner.  
*
approximate 120°F is preferred starting point.  
Some local laws may require a lower starting  
point. If hotter water is desired, see instruction  
manual and “warning” below.  
PILOT  
BURNER  
*THERMOCOUPLE  
8. If you don’t smell gas, turn knob on gas control counter  
13. Replace the outer door if not replaced in step 10.  
clockwise  
to “PILOT” position.  
WARNING  
Hotter water increases the risk of scald injury. Before changing temperature setting see instruction manual.  
TO TURN OFF GAS TOAPPLIANCE  
1. Set the thermostat to lowest setting by turning the water  
temperature dial clockwise ( ) to its lowest temperature  
setting (with arrow on dial) as shown. DO NOT FORCE.  
2. Turn gas control knob clockwise  
to “OFF”  
position. Knob cannot be turned from “PILOT” to “OFF”  
unless knob is depressed slightly. DO NOT FORCE.  
3. Replace outer door (if removed).  
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It is recommended that lower water temperatures be used to  
avoid the risk of scalding. It is further recommended, in all  
cases, that the water temperature dial, Figure 1, be set for the  
lowest temperature which satisfies your hot water needs. This  
also will provide the most energy efficient operation of the water  
heater. The water temperature adjusting dial was factory set at  
the lowest temperature; all the way clockwise to the mechanical  
HIGHALTITUDE INSTALLATION  
WARNING  
INSTALLATIONS ABOVE 2000 FT. REQUIRE REPLACEMENT  
OF THE BURNER ORIFICE INACCORDANCE WITH THE FUEL  
GAS CODE (ANSI Z223.1/NFPA 54). FAILURE TO REPLACE  
THE ORIFICE COULD RESULT IN IMPROPER AND  
INEFFICIENT OPERATION OF THEAPPLIANCE, PRODUCING  
CARBON MONOXIDE GAS IN EXCESS OF SAFE LIMITS,  
WHICH COULD RESULT IN SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH.  
CONTACT YOUR GAS SUPPLIER FOR ANY SPECIFIC  
CHANGES WHICH MAY BE REQUIRED IN YOUR AREA.  
stop. Turning the dial counterclockwise  
increases  
temperature, and clockwise reduces temperature.  
SETTING THE WATER HEATER TEMPERATURE AT 120°F  
(APPROX. MARK ON FACE OF THERMOSTAT) WILL  
REDUCE THE RISK OF SCALDS. Some states require settings  
at specific lower temperatures.  
A.O. SMITH DOES BUILD SOME MODELS SPECIFICALLY FOR  
HIGH ALTITUDE SERVICE.  
Figure 4 shows the approximate water temperatures produced  
at various thermostat dial settings. Short repeated heating  
cycles caused by small hot water uses can cause temperatures  
at the point of use to exceed the thermostat setting by up to  
30°F. If you experience this type of use you should consider  
using lower temperature settings to reduce scald hazards.  
PLEASE CHECK THE RATING PLATE BEFORE MAKING  
CHANGES.  
DRAFT HOOD OPERATION  
Check draft hood operation by performing a worst case  
depressurization of the building. With all doors and windows  
closed, and with all air handling equipment and exhaust fans  
operating, such as furnaces, clothes dryers, range hoods and  
bathroom fans, a match flame should still be drawn into the draft  
hood of the water heater with its burner firing. If the flame is not  
drawn toward the draft hood, shut off water heater and make  
necessary air supply changes to correct.  
Valves for reducing the point-of-use temperatures by mixing cold  
and hot water are available (see fig. 2). Also available are  
inexpensive devices that attach to faucets to limit hot water  
temperatures. Contact a licensed plumber or the local plumbing  
authority.  
SHOULD OVERHEATING OCCUR OR THE GAS SUPPLY FAIL  
TO SHUT OFF, TURN OFF THE MAIN MANUALGAS SHUTOFF  
VALVE TO THE APPLIANCE. SEE FIGURE 1.  
TEMPERATURE REGULATION  
DANGER  
THIS WATER HEATER IS EQUIPPED WITH AN ADJUSTABLE  
THERMOSTAT TO CONTROL WATER TEMPERATURE. HOT  
WATER TEMPERATURES REQUIRED FOR AUTOMATIC  
DISHWASHER AND LAUNDRY USE CAN CAUSE PAINFUL  
SCALDING WITH POSSIBLE SERIOUS AND PERMANENT  
INJURY. THE TEMPERATURE AT WHICH INJURY OCCURS  
VARIES WITH THE PERSON'S AGE AND THE TIME OF  
EXPOSURE. THE SLOWER RESPONSE OF CHILDREN,  
AGED OR DISABLED PERSONS INCREASES THE HAZARDS  
TO THEM. NEVER ALLOW SMALL CHILDREN TO USE A HOT  
WATERTAP, OR TO DRAWTHEIR OWN BATH WATER. NEVER  
LEAVE CHILD OR DISABLED PERSON UNATTENDED IN A  
BATHTUB OR SHOWER.  
Time to Produce 2nd & 3rd  
Temperature Settings  
Degree Burns on Adult  
VERY HOT = approx. 160°F  
C = approx. 150°F  
B = approx. 140°F  
A = approx. 130°F  
= approx. 120°F  
About 1/2 second  
about 1-1/2 seconds  
Less than 5 seconds  
About 30 seconds  
More than 5 minutes  
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -  
THE WATER HEATER SHOULD BE LOCATED IN AN AREA  
WHERE THE GENERAL PUBLIC DOES NOT HAVE ACCESS.  
IF A SUITABLE AREA IS NOT AVAILABLE, A COVER SHOULD  
BE INSTALLED OVER THE THERMOSTAT TO PREVENT  
TAMPERING. Suitable covers are available through A.O. Smith  
Water Products Company, 5621 W. 115th Street, Alsip, IL 60803.  
LOW = approx. 80°F  
FIGURE4  
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DRAINING  
If the heater is to be shut off and exposed to freezing  
temperatures, it must be drained. Water, if left in the tank and  
allowed to freeze, will damage the heater.  
MAINTENANCE  
FOR YOUR SAFETY, WATER HEATER SERVICE SHOULD BE  
PERFORMED ONLY BYAQUALIFIED SERVICE TECHNICIAN.  
READTHE GENERALSAFETYINFORMATION SECTION FIRST.  
Turn off the gas and cold water inlet valve to the heater.  
Open a nearby hot water faucet and the heater drain valve  
USERS OF THISAPPLIANCE SHOULD BEAWARE THAT GAS  
COMPONENTS WEAR OUT OVER A PERIOD OF TIME. THE  
GAS CARRYING COMPONENTS OF THIS APPLIANCE  
SHOULD BE INSPECTED FOR PROPER OPERATION  
PERIODICALLY BYAQUALIFIED SERVICE TECHNICIAN.  
BE CAREFULTO GRASP THE DRAIN VALVE HANDLE SO THAT  
THE HAND IS NOT EXPOSED TO HOT WATER. IF DESIRED, A  
HOSE MAY BE CONNECTED TO THE DRAIN VALVE TO CARRY  
THE WATERAWAY.  
DANGER: The water CAN BE HOT.  
PILOT AND MAIN BURNER  
• The drain valve must be left open during the shutdown period.  
• To restart heater, refer to the FILLING instructions under  
OPERATION.  
Check pilot and main burner every 12 months for proper flame  
characteristics. This is done by removing door(s) on heater,  
fig. 1. The main burner should provide complete combustion of  
gas; ignite rapidly; give reasonably quiet operation; cause no  
excessive flame lifting from burner ports. Make sure that the  
flow of combustion and ventilation air is not blocked.  
Periodically open the drain valve and allow the water to run until  
it flows clean. This will help prevent sediment build-up in the  
tank. It is normal for lime and scale deposits to form within the  
tank. Such deposits will not be removed by periodic draining. It  
is necessary to chemically delime the affected parts in water  
areas where such deposits are encountered. Contact your  
dealer or plumber for deliming information.  
If proper flame characteristics are not evident, check for  
accumulation of lint or other foreign material that restricts or  
blocks the air openings in the heater or burner. Also check  
AIR REQUIREMENTS.  
CONDENSATION  
WARNING  
Water vapor can condense on the cooler surfaces of the tank  
forming droplets, these drip into the fire or run out on the floor.  
This is common at the time of startup after installation, during  
periods of time when incoming water is very cold, or the heater  
may be undersized for the requirements.  
SOOT BUILD-UP INDICATES A PROBLEM THAT REQUIRES  
CORRECTION BEFORE FURTHER USE. CONSULT WITH A  
QUALIFIED SERVICE TECHNICIAN.  
Should the main burner or burner air openings require cleaning,  
turn the gas control knob to “OFF” position and allow the burner  
to cool. Remove the burner and clean with a soft brush. Clean  
main burner orifice with a suitable soft material.  
If water drops fall from the draft hood, it is water vapor condensed  
from combustion products due to a problem in the vent. It may  
also be the result of leaking rain water.  
HIGH TEMPERATURE LIMIT SWITCH  
(Single-Use Type Energy Cut Off)  
Droplets from the bottom of the flue may be due to corrosive  
combustion products or improper vent. Check with your dealer  
for more information.  
The thermostat has a built-in limit switch which will extinguish  
the pilot light in case of excessive water temperatures. The  
pilot cannot be relit until the entire thermostat (labeled as  
single-use type) is replaced. It is important that a serviceman  
be called to determine the reason for limit operation and thus  
avoid repeated thermostat replacement. Lower the temperature  
adjustment dial setting on new control.  
CATHODIC PROTECTION-ANODE  
The anode rod with the tank is designed to be slowly consumed  
cathodically, minimizing corrosion in the glass lined tank.  
A hydrogen sulfide (rotten egg odor) may result if water contains  
high sulfate and/or minerals. Chlorinating the water supply  
should minimize the problem. (See EXTENDED NON-USE  
PERIODS).  
VENTING SYSTEM  
HAVE VENTING SYSTEM CHECKED EVERY TWELVE  
MONTHS FOR OBSTRUCTIONS AND/OR DETERIORATION  
IN VENT PIPING.  
NOTE: Anode must remain installed (except for inspection) to  
avoid shortening tank life. See LIMITED WARRANTY. Replace  
as necessary.  
T & P VALVE  
ANODE ROD MAINTENANCE  
At least once a year, the temperature and pressure relief valve  
must be checked 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.  
The anode rod is used to protect the tank from corrosion. Most  
hot water tanks are equipped with an anode rod. The  
submerged rod sacrifices itself to protect the tank. Instead of  
corroding the tank, water ions attack and eat away the anode  
rod. This does not affect the water's taste or color. The rod  
must be maintained to keep the tank in operating condition.  
Anode deterioration depends on water conductivity, not  
necessarily water condition. A corroded or pitted anode rod  
WARNING  
THE WATER PASSING OUT OF THE VALVE DURING THIS  
CHECKING OPERATION MAY BE EXTREMELY HOT. AVOID  
CONTACT AND DISCHARGE SAFELY TO PREVENT WATER  
DAMAGE.  
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indicates high water conductivity and should be checked and/  
or replaced more often than an anode rod that appears to be  
intact. Replacement of a depleted anode rod can extend the  
life of your water heater. Inspection should be conducted by a  
qualified technician, and at a minimum should be checked  
annually after the warranty period.  
TROUBLESHOOTING  
Please check guidelines below. For your safety, water heater service should be performed only by a qualified service technician.  
Read the GENERAL SAFETY INFORMATION section first.  
PROBLEM  
CAUSE  
SOLUTION  
Improperly sealed, hot or cold supply connections,  
relief valve, drain valve or thermostat threads.  
Tighten threaded connections.  
WATER LEAKS  
Leakage from other appliances or water lines.  
Condensation of flue products.  
Inspect other appliances near water heater.  
Refer to CONDENSATION.  
Thermal expansion in closed water system.  
Install thermal expansion tank  
(DO NOT plug T & P valve).  
LEAKING T & P  
Improperly seated valve.  
Check relief valve for proper operation  
(DO NOT plug T & P valve).  
HOT WATER ODORS  
(Refer to CATHODIC  
PROTECTION,)  
High sulfate or mineral content in water supply.  
Bacteria in water supply.  
Drain and flush heater thoroughly, then refill.  
Chlorinate or aerate water supply.  
Clean pilot assembly.  
Dirty pilot burner.  
Thermocouple tip is not in contact with pilot flame.  
Thermocouple malfunction.  
Thermocouple malfunction.  
Gas knob dial not positioned correctly.  
Pilot orifice clogged.  
Insert thermocouple correctly.  
Replace thermocouple  
PILOT OUTAGE  
Check thermostat.  
Refer to LIGHTING INSTRUCTIONS.  
Clean or replace pilot orifice.  
Replace pilot tube.  
PILOT WILL  
NOT LIGHT  
Pinched or clogged pilot tube.  
Main gas supply off.  
Turn on main gas shutoff valve.  
Refer to LIGHTING INSTRUCTIONS.  
Refer to TEMPERATURE REGULATION  
Reduce hot water use.  
Heater not lit or thermostat not on.  
Thermostat set too low.  
Heater undersized.  
NOT ENOUGH  
OR  
Low gas pressure.  
Contact dealer.  
NO HOT WATER  
Incoming water is unusually cold.  
Leaking hot water pipes or fixtures.  
High temperature limit switch activated.  
Allow more time for heater to re-heat.  
Have plumber check and repair leaks.  
Contact dealer to determine cause. See  
HIGH TEMPERATURE SWITCH note below.  
Thermostat set too high.  
Refer to HIGH TEMPERATURE REGULATION  
Refer to CONDENSATION above.  
WATER TOO HOT  
Condensation dripping on burner.  
Sediment at bottom of heater tank.  
WATER HEATER  
SOUNDS:  
SIZZLING·RUMBLING  
Clean sediment from tank. Refer to DRAINING  
instructions in Maintenance section of manual.  
SOOTING  
Improper combustion  
Refer to AIR REQUIREMENTS on page 4.  
10  
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LIMITED RESIDENTIAL GAS WARRANTY  
THIS WARRANTY ISAPPLICABLE TOTHE ORIGINALOWNER ONLY. If  
a. Labor charges for service, removal, or reinstallation of the water  
the glass lined tank in this water heater shall prove upon examination by  
A. O. Smith Corporation (the warrantor) to have leaked during the  
warranty period in normal residential use, due to natural corrosion from  
potable water therein, the warrantor will furnish the ORIGINAL OWNER  
a replacement A. O. Smith water heater of equivalent size and current  
model, or a replacement part for any thermostat or thermocouple which  
fails in normal use, in accordance with the warranty terms and conditions  
specified below. THE A. O. SMITH REPLACEMENT MODEL OR PART  
WILLBE WARRANTED FOR ONLYTHE UNEXPIRED PORTION OF THE  
ORIGINAL WARRANTY. The warranty period will be determined by the  
original installation date of the water heater. PROOF-OF-PURCHASE  
AND PROOF-OF-INSTALLATIONARE NECESSARYTO VALIDATE THIS  
WARRANTY. This warranty is not transferable and applies to models  
listed in Table 1 which are produced after March 1, 2000.  
heater or part thereof.  
b. Shipping and delivery charges for forwarding the new water  
heater or replacement part from the nearest distributor and  
returning the claimed defective heater or part to such distributor  
except in the state of California where such charges are the  
manufacturer’s responsibility.  
c. All cost necessary or incidental for handling and administrative  
charges, and for any materials and/or permits required for  
installation of the replacement heater or part.  
LIMITATION ON IMPLIED WARRANTIES  
Implied warranties, including any warranty of merchantability imposed  
on the sale of this heater under state law are limited to one year  
duration for the heater or any of its parts. Some states do not allow  
limitations on how long an implied warranty lasts, so the above limitations  
may not apply to you.  
WARRANTYPERIODS  
MODEL  
GCG  
XCG  
TANK1  
6 YEARS  
10 YEARS  
PARTS2  
6 YEARS  
6 YEARS  
CLAIM PROCEDURE  
Any claim under this warranty should be initiated with the dealer who  
sold the heater, or with any other dealer handling the warrantor’s  
products. If this is not practical, the owner should contact: A. O. Smith  
Corporation, 5621 West 115th Street, Alsip, Illinois, 60803  
(800) 323-2636. Canadian customers should contact A. O. Smith  
Enterprises, Ltd., P.O. Box 310-768 Erie Street, Stratford,  
Ontario N5A 6T3, (800) 265-8520.  
When the water heater has been used for other than single family  
residential application; 1. The tank warranty shall be reduced to 1 year  
for 6 year models and to 3 years for 10 year models. 2. The parts  
warranty shall be reduced to 1 year for all models. Returned parts which  
meet any of the following conditions are not covered by this warranty:  
1) improper installation or removal, 2) damaged by other than normal  
wear, 3) replaced for cosmetic purposes, or 4) returned with defaced  
date codes.  
The warrantor will only honor replacement with identical or similar  
water heater or parts thereof which are manufactured or distributed  
by the warrantor.  
CONDITIONS AND EXCEPTIONS  
Dealer replacements are made subject to in-warranty validation by  
warrantor.  
This warranty shall apply only when the water heater is installed and  
operated in accordance with 1) all local fire codes and plumbing codes,  
ordinances and regulations, 2) the printed instructions provided with it,  
3) good industry practices, and 4) proper safety practices such as but  
not limited to a properly sized drain pan if installed in an area where  
leakage from connections of the tank would result in damage to the area  
adjacent to the heater. In addition, a new temperature and pressure  
relief valve, certified by the American Gas Association must have been  
properly installed and piped to the nearest drain.  
PROOF-OF-PURCHASE AND PROOF-OF-INSTALLATION DATE  
ARE REQUIRED TO SUPPORT WARRANTY CLAIM FROM  
ORIGINAL OWNER. THIS FORM DOES NOT CONSTITUTE  
PROOF-OF-PURCHASE OR PROOF-OF-INSTALLATION.  
DISCLAIMERS  
NO EXPRESSED WARRANTY HAS BEEN OR WILL BE MADE IN BEHALF  
OFTHE WARRANTOR WITH RESPECTTOTHE MERCHANTABILITYOF  
THE HEATER OR THE INSTALLATION, OPERATION, REPAIR OR  
REPLACEMENT OFTHE HEATER OR PARTS. THE WARRANTOR SHALL  
NOT BE RESPONSIBLE FOR WATER DAMAGE, LOSS OF USE OF THE  
UNIT, INCONVENIENCE, LOSSORDAMAGE TO PERSONALPROPERTY,  
OR OTHER CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGE. THE WARRANTOR SHALL  
NOT BE LIABLE BY VIRTUE OF THIS WARRANTY OR OTHERWISE  
FOR DAMAGE TOANY PERSONS OR PROPERTY, WHETHER DIRECT  
OR INDIRECT,AND WHETHERARISING IN CONTRACT OR INTORT.  
This warranty shall apply only when the heater is:  
owned by the original purchaser;  
used at temperatures not exceeding the maximum calibrated setting  
of its thermostat;  
used at water pressure not exceeding the working pressure  
shown on the heater;  
filled with potable water, free to circulate at all times and with the  
tank free of damaging water sediment or scale deposits;  
used in a non-corrosive and non-contaminated atmosphere;  
used with factory approved anode(s) installed;  
in its original installation location;  
in the United States, its territories or possessions, and Canada;  
sized in accordance with proper sizing techniques for residential  
water heaters;  
Some states do not allow the limitation or exclusion of incidental or  
consequential damages, so the above limitation or exclusion may not  
apply to you.  
This warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have  
other rights which vary from state to state.  
bearing a rating plate which has not been altered, defaced or  
removed except as required by the warrantor;  
used in an open system or in a closed system with a properly  
sized and installed thermal expansion tank;  
operated with properly installed dirt leg;  
fired with the fuel for which it was factory built;  
fired at the factory rated input;  
IMPORTANT INFORMATION  
Model Number____________________________________________  
Serial Number____________________________________________  
INSTALLATION INFORMATION  
operated with the inner and outer combustion chamber doors in  
place.  
Any accident to the water heater or any part thereof (including freezing,  
fire, floods, or lightning), any misuse, abuse or alteration of it, any  
operation of it in a modified form, or any attempt to repair tank leaks or  
parts, will void this warranty.  
Date Installed ___________________________________________  
Company’s Name ________________________________________  
Street or P.O. Box ________________________________________  
City, State, and Zip Code___________________________________  
Phone Number___________________________________________  
Plumber’s Name __________________________________________  
SERVICE AND LABOR RESPONSIBILITY  
UNDER THIS LIMITED WARRANTY, THE WARRANTOR WILL PROVIDE  
ONLYAREPLACEMENTWATERHEATERORPARTTHEREOF. THEOWNER  
IS RESPONSIBLE FORALLOTHER COSTS. Such costs may include but  
are not limited to:  
11  
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REPLACEMENT PARTS  
5621 W. 115TH STREET, ALSIP, IL 60803  
Phone: 800-433-2545 Fax: 800-433-2515  
www.aosmithwaterheaters.com e-mail: [email protected]  
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