Frequently Asked Questions

Removal and replacement of the gas control valve / thermostat involves the disconnection of gas piping, manifold tube, pilot tube, and thermocouple. It is recommended that this procedure be performed by a qualified service technician.

Gas Water Heaters

Problem	Possible Cause(s)	Corrective Action
Insufficient hot water?	Low gas pressure Thermostat set too low Sediment or lime in tank Water heater too small	Check with gas utility company Turn temperature dial to higher setting Drain/flush-provide water treatment if needed See Sizing Guides.
Slow hot water recovery?	Thermostat set too low Heater too small	Turn temperature dial to higher setting See Sizing Guides
Drip from relief valve?	Excessive water pressure Heater stacking (frequent and increased tap temperature after several short draws from the hot water tap)	Use a temperature pressure reducing valve and relief valve Lower the thermostat setting
Smelly water?	Sulfides in the water	Replace the aluminum anode with a KA90 anode
Condensation?	Temperature setting too low	Increase the temperature setting. See owner's manual.
Thermostat fails to shut off?	Improper calibration	Contact technician to replace thermostat
Pilot will not light or remain lit?	Low gas pressure Air in gas line No gas Dirt in gas lines Pilot line or orifice clogged Thermocouple connection loose Thermocouple Thermostat ECO switch open	Check with gas utility company Bleed the air from the gas line Check with gas utility company Notify utility; install dirt trap in gas line Clean, locate source and correct Finger tighten, then 1/4 turn with wrench Contact technician to replace thermocouple Contact technician to replace thermostat

Electric Water Heaters

Problem	Possible Cause(s)	Corrective Action
No hot water?	Upper thermostats Elements No power to heater High Temperature Limit Switch open	Replace thermostats Replace elements Turn on electrical switch. Check for blown fuses or tripped breaker. Reset. Check for source of trouble and correct
Insufficient hot water?	Thermostats Elements Thermostats set too low Sediment or lime in tank Heater too small for job	Replace thermostats Replace elements Set thermostats to desired temperature Drain; determine if water treatment is needed See Sizing Guides
Slow hot water recovery?	Elements	Replace elements
Drip from relief valve?	Excessive water pressure	Use pressure reducing valve and pressure relief valve. Add expansion tank.
Thermostat fails to shut off?	Thermostats	Replace thermostats
Water odor?	Sulfides in the water	Replace anode