Operating the water heater without the proper anode rod protection will decrease
tank life and will void the tank manufacturer’s warranty on the tank. To extend the anode
life, drain the water from the water heater tank whenever the RV is not being used. Avoid
any extended time of non-use with water in the tank.
To prevent a water leak when replacing the anode rod, a pipe thread sealant approved for
potable water (such as Teflon Tape) must be applied to the threads of the anode rod.
Proper application of a thread sealant will not interfere with the anode’s
High altitude deration
Operation of the water heater at high altitudes may require derating. If the water heater is
not properly derated, lack of sufficient oxygen for combustion may produce improper
burner operation. Pilot outage caused by burner lift-off or sooting from a yellow burner
may occur, indicating the possibility of carbon monoxide.
You may also notice a lack of efficiency in heating the water because of incomplete
combustion of the burner at these higher altitudes.
Consult with the local propane company, your dealer or the water heater manufacturer for
proper derating of the water heater. Change out of the orifice (derating) should be done by
the dealer or a qualified service agency.
NOTE: It is important that once the RV has returned to lower elevation (below 4500
feet) any high altitude deration or other adjustments be reversed for proper operation of the
water heater.
Pressure & temperature relief valve
The temperature and pressure relief valve is designed to open if the temperature of the
water within the heater reaches 120° F, or if the water pressure in the heater reaches 150
pounds. When this pressure is reached, the pressure relief valve will open and water will
drip from the valve.
This “weeping” or dripping will continue until the pressure is reduced to below 150
pounds, and the valve closes. This condition is normal and does not indicate a defective
relief valve.
One way to reduce the frequency of this occurrence is to maintain an air pocket at the top
of the water heater tank. This air pocket will form in the tank by design; however, it will be
reduced over time by the everyday use of your water heater. To replenish this air pocket:
1. Turn off the water heater.
2. Turn off the cold water supply line.
3. Open a faucet in the recreation vehicle.
4. Pull out the handle of the pressure relief (P&T) valve and allow water to flow from
the valve until it stops.
5. Release the handle on the P&T valve - it should snap closed.
Close the faucet and turn on the cold water supply. As the tank fills, the air pocket will
develop. Repeat this procedure as often as needed to reduce the frequency of the weeping
P&T valve.
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