Bradford White RG275H6X-506 User manual

238-51007-00G REV 7/19
GAS-FIRED WATER HEATER
A Spanish language version of these instructions is available by
contacting the company listed on the rating plate.
La versión española de estas instrucciones se puede obtener al escribirle
a la fábrica cuyo nombre aparece en la placa de especificaciones.
WHAT TO DO IF YOU SMELL GAS
•Do not try to light any appliance.
•Do not touch any electrical switch; do not use any
phone in your building.
•Immediately call your gas supplier from a neighbor’s phone.
Follow the gas supplier's instructions.
•If you cannot reach your gas supplier, call the fire
department.
Installation and service must be performed by a qualified installer,
service agency or the gas supplier.
For your family’s comfort, safety and convenience, we recommend this water
heater be installed and serviced by a plumbing professional.
INSTALLATION & OPERATION
INSTRUCTION MANUAL
WARNING: If the information in these instructions is not followed
exactly, a fire or explosion may result causing property damage,
personal injury or death.
FOR YOUR SAFETY
Do not store or use gasoline or other flammable, combustible, or
corrosive vapors and liquids in the vicinity of this or any other
appliance.

2
CONGRATULATIONS!
You have just purchased one of the finest water heaters on the
market today!
This installation, operation and instruction manual will explain in
detail the installation and maintenance of your new G
as Water Heater.
We strongly recommend that you contact a plumbing
professional for
the installation of this water heater.
We require that you carefully read this manual, as well as the
enclosed warranty, and refer to it when questions arise. If you have
any specific questions concerning your warranty, please consult the
plumbing professional from whom your water heater was purchased.
For your records, we recommend that you write the model, serial
number and installation date of your water heater in the maintenance
section in the back of this manual.
This manual should be kept with the water heater.
TABLE OF CONTENTS page
GENERAL INFORMATION................................................................. 3
INSTALLATION.................................................................................. 4
Locating the Water Heater............................................................. 4
Minimum Clearances..................................................................... 8
Venting............................................................................................ 9
Combustion Air Supply ............................................................... 10
Water Connections ...................................................................... 12
Gas Connections.......................................................................... 15
GENERAL OPERATION................................................................... 17
Lighting & shutdown instructions .............................................. 18
THERMOSTAT ADJUSTMENT..................................................... 21
Burner flame checks.................................................................... 23
MAINTENANCE............................................................................................ 24
TROUBLESHOOTING CHART ..................................................... 26
PARTS LIST AND DRAWING .......................................................... 31
INSTRUCTIONS FOR INSTALLATIONS SUITABLE FOR WATER
(POTABLE) HEATING AND SPACE HEATING............................... 32

3
GENERAL INFORMATION
This gas-fired water heater is design certified by CSA International under the
applicable American National Standard, Z21.10.1 or Z21.10.3-(as indicated on
the rating plate), or CSA 4.1-(as indicated on the rating plate), available from
CSA International, 8501 East Pleasant Valley Road, Cleveland, OH U.S.A.
44131-5575.
This water heater must be installed in accordance with local codes. In the
absence of local codes, it must be installed in compliance with the National
Fuel Gas Code (ANSI Z223.1-Latest Edition), or in Canada CAN/CGA B149.1
Natural Gas Installation Code (Latest Edition) or CAN/CGA B149.2 Propane
Installation Code (Latest Edition). The warranty for this water heater is in
effect only when the water heater is installed, adjusted, and operated in
accordance with these Installation and Operating Instructions. The
manufacturer will not be liable for any damage resulting from alteration and/or
failure to comply with these instructions.
This water heater is not design certified for installation in a mobile home. Such
an installation may create a hazardous condition and will nullify the warranty.
This water heater has been designed and certified for the purpose of heating
potable water. The installation and use of this water heater for any purpose
other than the heating of potable water may cause damage to the water
heater, create a hazardous condition, and nullify the warranty.
Do not use this appliance if any external part to the tank has been submerged
in water. You should contact a qualified service technician to inspect the
appliance and to replace any part of the control system including the
combination gas control which has been submerged in water. See the Gas
Connections section of this manual before servicing or replacing a water
heater that has had any external part to the tank submerged in water.
CAUTION
Incorrect operation of this appliance may create a hazard to life and
property and will nullify the warranty.
WARNING
Prior to connecting the gas supply line to a gas fired water heater,
ensure that the gas supply line does not have moisture/water or
dirt/scale inside the gas line. Commonly this check is done at the
lowest point in the gas distribution system prior to gas burning
appliances.
DANGER
Do not store or use gasoline or other flammable, combustible, or
corrosive vapors and liquids in the vicinity of this or any other
appliance.

4
General Information continued-
This water heater has been manufactured for operation at altitudes from sea
level to 2000 feet (610m). For use of this appliance at an elevation greater
than 2000 feet (610m), contact the dealer or manufacturer listed on the rating
plate for information on any necessary modification. Uncorrected operation of
this appliance may create a hazard to life and property.
Make sure that you check the rating plate and combination gas control on the
water heater to be certain that the type of gas being supplied corresponds with
the marking on the rating plate and combination gas control.
A sacrificial anode(s) is used to extend tank life. Removal of any anode,
except for inspection and/or replacement, will nullify the warranty. In areas
where water is unusually active, an odor may occur at the hot water faucet
due to a reaction between the sacrificial anode and impurities in the water. If
this should happen, an alternative anode(s) may be purchased from the
supplier that installed this water heater. This will minimize the odor while
protecting the tank. Additionally, the water heater should be flushed with
appropriate dissolvers to eliminate any bacteria.
INSTALLATION
Locating the Water Heater
IMPORTANT
Before proceeding, please inspect the water heater and components for
possible damage. DO NOT install any damaged components. If damage is
evident then please contact the supplier where the water heater was
purchased, or the manufacturer listed on the rating plate for replacement
parts.
WARNING
Water heaters are heat producing appliances. To avoid damage or
injury there must be no materials stored against the water heater or
vent-air intake system and proper care must be taken to avoid
unnecessary contact (especially by children) with the water heater and
vent-air intake components. UNDER NO CIRCUMSTANCES SHOULD
FLAMMABLE MATERIALS, SUCH AS GASOLINE OR PAINT
THINNER TO BE USED OR STORED IN THE VICINITY OF THIS
WATER HEATER, VENT-AIR INTAKE SYSTEM OR IN ANY
LOCATION FROM WHICH FUMES COULD REACH THE WATER
HEATER OR VENT-AIR INTAKE SYSTEM.

5
Installation (Locating the Water Heater) continued-
This water heater MUST be installed indoors out of the wind and
weather.
This water heater MUST NOT be installed in any location where gasoline
or flammable vapors are likely to be present, unless the installation is
such to eliminate the probable ignition of gasoline or flammable vapors.
Water heaters in residential garages must be installed so that all
burner(s) and burner ignition device(s) are located not less than 18
inches (45.7 cm) above the floor and be located, or protected, to avoid
physical damage. For other installations refer to local codes. In the
absence of local codes, the water heater must be installed in compliance
with the National Fuel Gas Code, (ANSI Z223.1- Latest Edition), or in
Canada CAN/CGA B149.1 Natural Gas Installation Code (Latest Edition)
or CAN/CGA B149.2 Propane Installation Code (Latest Edition).
The location of this water heater is of the utmost importance. Before installing
this water heater, you should read the Installation section of these instructions.
After reading these Installation and Operating Instructions, select a location for
the water heater where the floor is level and is easily accessible to gas and
water supply lines. DO NOT locate the water heater where water lines
could be subjected to freezing temperatures. Make sure the cold water
pipes are not located directly above the gas control so that condensate
during humid weather does not drip on the controls.
Note: 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 DSA Headquarters Office, 1102 Q Street, Suite 5100,
Sacramento, CA 95811.
Water heater corrosion and component failure can be caused by the heating
and breakdown of airborne chemical vapors. Examples of some typical
compounds that are potentially corrosive are: spray can propellants, cleaning
solvents, refrigerator and air conditioning refrigerants, swimming pool
chemicals, calcium and sodium chloride, waxes and process chemicals.
These materials are corrosive at very low concentration levels with little or no
odor to reveal their presence. NOTE: DAMAGE TO THE WATER HEATER
CAUSED BY EXPOSURE TO CORROSIVE VAPORS IS NOT COVERED BY
THE WARRANTY. DO NOT OPERATE THE WATER HEATER IF
EXPOSURE HAS OR WILL OCCUR. DO NOT STORE ANY POTENTIALLY
CORROSIVE COMPOUNDS IN THE VICINITY OF THE WATER HEATER.

6
Installation (Locating the Water Heater) continued-
Proper venting practices must be considered when selecting a location for this
water heater. For exact venting specifications, please consult the Venting
section, of these Installation and Operating Instructions.
This water heater must be located in an area where leakage of the tank, water
line connections, or the combination temperature and pressure relief valve will
not result in damage to the area adjacent to the water heater or to lower floors
of the structure. When such locations cannot be avoided, a suitable drain pan
must be installed under the water heater. The drain pan must have a minimum
length and width of at least 4 in. (10.2 cm) greater than the diameter
of the water heater and must not restrict proper combustion air flow to the
water heater. The drain pan, as described above, can be purchased from your
plumbing professional. The drain pan must be piped to an adequate drain.
The piping must be at least 3/4 inch (1.9 cm) in diameter and pitched for
proper drainage.
WARNING
Liquefied petroleum gases/propane gases are heavier than air and will
remain at floor level if there is a leak. Basements, crawl spaces, closets
and areas below ground level will serve as pockets for accumulation of
leaking gas. Before lighting, smell all around the appliance area for gas.
Be sure to smell next to the floor.
IF YOU SMELL GAS:
•Do not try to light any appliance.
•Do not touch any electric switch; do not use any telephone in your
building.
•Immediately call your gas supplier from a neighbor’s telephone.
Follow the gas supplier’s instructions.
•If you cannot reach your gas supplier, call the fire department.
DO NOT OPERATE APPLIANCE UNTIL LEAKAGE IS CORRECTED!
WARNING
DO NOT ATTEMPT TO LIGHT ANY GAS APPLIANCE IF YOU ARE
NOT CERTAIN OF THE FOLLOWING:
•Liquefied petroleum gases/propane gas and natural gas have an
odorant added by the gas supplier that aids in detection of the gas.
•Most people recognize this odor as a “sulfur” or “rotten egg” smell.
•Other conditions, such as “odorant fade” can cause the odorant to
diminish in intensity, or “fade”, and not be as readily detectable.
•If you have a diminished sense of smell or are in any way unsure of
the presence of gas, immediately contact your gas supplier from a
neighbor’s telephone.
Gas detectors are available. Contact your gas supplier or plumbing
professional for more information.

7
Installation (Locating the Water Heater) continued-
It is recommended that a minimum clearance of four (4) inches (10.2 cm) be
provided on the side of the water heater for servicing and maintenance of the
combination temperature and pressure relief valve.
To comply with NSF requirements this water heater is to be:
a) Sealed to the floor with sealant, in a smooth and easily cleanable
way, or
b) Installed with an optional leg kit that includes legs and/or
extensions that provide a minimum clearance of 6” beneath the
water heater.

8
Minimum Clearances
This installation must allow access to the front of the water heater and
adequate clearance must be provided for servicing and operating this water
heater. The water heater may be installed on either a combustible or non-
combustible floor. If the water heater is to be installed directly on carpeting, it
must be installed on top of a metal or wood panel (or equivalent) extending
beyond the full width and depth of the appliance by at least three (3) inches
(7.6 cm)in any direction or, if the appliance is to be installed in an alcove or
closet, the entire floor must be covered by the panel, increase distances to
provide clearance for servicing. If the rating plate or the label on the front
of the water heater specifies minimum clearances less than those listed
in the below table, the water heater may be installed in accordance with
the minimum clearances listed on the rating plate or the label on the
front of the water heater.
If it is necessary to install this water heater in an alcove, use the clearances
listed in the following table and Figure 1.
Figure 1
WARNING
Failure to adhere to these installation and operating instructions
may create a hazard to life and property and will nullify the
warranty.

9
Venting
This water heater has been shipped with a draft diverter for which it was designed with
reference to the horizontal and vertical planes, its certified category I, per latest ANSI Z
21.10.3-2015.CSA 4.3-2015 revision. Refer to the latest edition of the National Fuel
Gas Code (ANSI Z223.1-latest edition), or in Canada, the Natural Gas and Propane
Installation Code (B149.1-00 latest edition). If removed, the draft diverter must be
replaced in the same position and secured to the jacket top by which it was installed.
WARNING
The venting system must be installed properly following all local codes
or in the absence of local codes, the latest edition of the National Fuel
Gas Code (ANSI Z223.1- latest edition), or in Canada, The Natural Gas
and Propane Installation Code (B149.1-00 latest edition). Failure to
properly install the venting system could result in property damage,
personal injury, or death.
WARNING
Carefully inspect the venting system of a replacement water heater installation
before connecting to the venting system. All joints in the vent connector must be
securely fastened with screws and fit tightly together. Inspect the venting
system for signs of deterioration (rust and perforation) and replace any sections
that are not in good condition.
The chimney must be lined and in good condition. Check to m
ake sure the
venting system is properly sized for the water heater. If the venting system was
previously sized for another gas appliance that has been removed, the venting
system may now be too large. Refer to the latest edition of the National Fuel
Gas Code (ANSI Z223.1-
latest edition), or in Canada, the Natural Gas and
Propane Installation Code (B149.1-
00 latest edition) for the correct sizing of
venting systems and common venting with another gas appliance.
Do not vent this water heater into the venting system of another gas appliance
designed to vent under positive pressure.
The water heater should be installed as close as practical to the venting system
to minimize the vent connector length required. Refer to loc
al codes for the
distance limitations on vent connector lengths.
At the completion of the water heater installation, the burner and venting system
must be checked for proper operation with all other commonly vented
appliances in operation. Check for spillage of flue products around the outside
relief opening of the draft hood after several minutes of operation. The flame
from a match should be drawn into the draft hood. Do not use the water heater
or connected equipment if spillage is detected until the problem is corrected.
Refer to the latest edition of the National Fuel Gas Code, or in Canada, the
Natural Gas and Propane Installation Code for complete details on the
“Procedure to Be Followed to Place Equipment in Operation”.

10
Venting continued-
This water heater must be connected to a lined masonry chimney or venting
system approved by local codes or ordinances. The vent connector used to
attach the draft diverter outlet to the chimney or approved vent must be of the
same diameter as the draft diverter outlet or larger. For proper venting in
certain installations, a larger vent connector may be needed. Consult venting
tables in ANSI standard (Z223.1-or latest edition), National Fuel Gas Code
and CAN/CGA (B149.1 or B149.2-latest editions) Natural Gas and Propane
Installation Code, or local code officials for proper application for your area.
Combustion Air Supply
Provide adequate air for combustion and ventilation. An insufficient
supply of air will cause recirculation of combustion products resulting in
air contamination that may be hazardous to life. Such a condition often
will result in a yellow, luminous burner flame, causing carboning or
sooting of the combustion chamber, burners and flue tubes with possible
damage to the water heater. When an exhaust fan is installed in the
same room with a water 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 recirculation of combustion
products.
Confined Spaces
Confined spaces are spaces defined as having less than 50 ft.3/1000 BTU
(1.41m3/.29kw) per hour.
WARNING
Liquefied petroleum gases/propane gases are heavier than air and will
remain at floor level if there is a leak. Basements, crawl spaces, closets
and areas below ground level will serve as pockets for accumulation of
leaking gas. Before lighting, smell all around the appliance area for gas.
Be sure to smell next to the floor.
IF YOU SMELL GAS:
•Do not try to light any appliance.
•Do not touch any electric switch; do not use any telephone in your
building.
•Immediately call your gas supplier from a neighbor’s telephone.
Follow the gas supplier’s instructions.
•If you cannot reach your gas supplier, call the fire department.
DO NOT OPERATE APPLIANCE UNTIL LEAKAGE IS CORRECTED!
IMPORTANT
The flow of combustion and ventilating air must not be obstructed.

11
Unconfined Spaces
In unconfined spaces in buildings, infiltration may be adequate to provide air
for combustion, ventilation and dilution of flue gases. However, in buildings of
Installation (Combustion Air Supply) continued-
tight construction (for example, weather stripping, heavily insulated, caulked,
vapor barrier, etc.), additional air may need to be provided using the methods
described above under CONFINED SPACES: All Air from Outdoors or
All Air from Inside the Building: The confined space must be provided with
two permanent openings communicating directly with an additional room(s) of
sufficient volume so that the combined volume of all spaces meets the criteria
for an unconfined space. The total input of all gas utilization equipment
installed in the combined space must be considered in making this
determination. Each opening must have a minimum free area of 1 square inch
per 1000 BTU (6.45cm2/.29kw) per hour of the total input rating of all gas
utilization equipment in the confined space, but not less than 100 square
inches (645cm2). One opening must be within 12 inches (31cm) of the top and
one within 12 inches (31cm) of the bottom of the enclosure.
All Air from Outdoors: The confined space must be provided with two
permanent openings, one commencing within 12 inches (31cm) of the top and
one commencing within 12 inches (31cm) from the bottom of the enclosure.
The openings must communicate directly, or by ducts, with the outdoors or
spaces (crawl or attic) that freely communicate with the outdoors.
1. When directly communicating with the outdoors, each opening must have
a minimum free area of 1 square inch per 4000 BTU (6.45cm2/1.2kw) per
hour of total input rating of all equipment in the enclosure.
2. When communicating with the outdoors through vertical ducts, each
opening must have a minimum free area of 1 square inch per 4000 BTU
(6.45cm2/1.2kw) per hour of total input rating of all equipment in the
enclosure.
3. When communicating with the outdoors through horizontal ducts, each
opening must have a minimum free area of 1 square inch per 2000 BTU
(6.45cm2/.6kw) per hour of total input rating of all equipment in the
enclosure.
4. When ducts are used, they must be of the same cross-sectional area as
the free area of the openings to which they connect. The minimum
dimension of rectangular air ducts must be not less than 3 inches (7.5cm)
Specially Engineered Installations
The requirements noted under CONFINED SPACES above shall not
necessarily govern when special engineering, approved by the authority
having jurisdiction, provides an adequate supply of air for combustion,
ventilation, and dilution of flue gases.

12
Water Connections
Note: BEFORE PROCEEDING WITH THE INSTALLATION, CLOSE THE
MAIN WATER SUPPLY VALVE.
After shutting off the main water supply, open a faucet to relieve the water line
pressure to prevent any water from leaking out of the pipes while making the
water connections to the water heater. After the pressure has been relieved,
close the faucet. The COLD-water inlet and HOT water outlet are identified on
the top of the water heater. The fittings at the cold-water inlet and hot water
outlet are dielectric waterway fittings with 3/4” NPT male thread. Make the
proper plumbing connections between the water heater and the plumbing
system to the house. Install a shut-off valve in the cold-water supply line.
If this water heater is installed in a closed water supply system, such as the
one having a back-flow preventer in the cold-water supply, provisions must be
made to control thermal expansion. DO NOT operate this water heater in a
closed system without provisions for controlling thermal expansion. Your water
supplier or local plumbing inspector should be contacted on how to control this
situation
After installation of the water lines, open the main water supply valve and fill
the water heater. While the water heater is filling, open several hot water
faucets to allow air to escape from the water system. When a steady stream of
water flows through the faucets, close them and check all water connections
for possible leaks. NEVER OPERATE THE WATER HEATER WITHOUT
FIRST BEING CERTAIN IT IS FILLED WITH WATER.
CAUTION
If sweat fittings are to be use, DO NOT apply heat to the nipples on top
of the water heater. Sweat the tubing to the adapter before fitting the
adapter to the water connections. It is imperative that heat is not applied
to the nipples containing a plastic liner.
WARNING
FAILURE TO INSTALL AND MAINTAIN A NEW, LISTED 3/4” X 3/4”
TEMPERATURE AND PRESSURE RELIEF VALVE WILL RELEASE
THE MANUFACTURER FROM ANY CLAIM, WHICH MIGHT RESULT
FROM EXCESSIVE TEMPERATURE AND PRESSURES.

13
Installation (Water Connections) continued-
WARNING
For protection against excessive temperatures and pressure, install
temperature and pressure protective equipment required by local
codes, but not less than a combination temperature and pressure
relief valve certified by a nationally recognized testing laboratory
that maintains periodic inspection of production of listed equipment
or materials as meeting the requirements of the Standard for Relief
Valves and Automatic Gas Shutoff Devices for Hot Water Supply
Systems, ANSI Z21.22 or the Standard CAN1-4.4. Temperature and
Pressure and the Standard CAN1-4.4, Temperature, Pressure,
Temperature and Pressure Relief Valves and Vacuum Relief
Valves. The combination temperature and pressure relief valve
must be marked with a maximum set pressure not to exceed the
maximum working pressure of the water heater. The combination
temperature and pressure relief valve must also have an hourly
rated temperature steam BTU discharge capacity not less than the
hourly rating of the water heater.
Install the combination temperature and pressure relief valve into
the opening provided and marked for this purpose on the water
heater.
Note: Some models may already be equipped or supplied with a
combination temperature and pressure relief valve. Verify that the
combination temperature and pressure relief valve complies with
local codes. If the combination temperature and pressure relief
valve does not comply with local codes, replace it with one that
does. Follow the installation instructions above on this page.
Install a discharge line so that water discharged from the
combination temperature and pressure relief valve will exit within six
(6) inches (15.2 cm) above, or any distance below the structural
floor and cannot contact any live electrical part. The discharge line
is to be installed to allow for complete drainage of both the
combination temperature and pressure relief valve and the
discharge line. The discharge opening must not be subjected to
blockage or freezing. DO NOT thread, plug or cap the discharge
line. It is recommended that a minimum clearance of four (4) inches
(10.2 cm) be provided on the side of the water heater for servicing
and maintenance of the combination temperature and pressure
relief valve.
Do not place a valve between the combination temperature and
pressure relief valve and the tank.

14
Installation (Water Connections) continued-
This water heater can deliver scalding temperature water at any faucet in the
system. Be careful whenever using hot water to avoid scalding injury. Certain
appliances such as dishwashers and automatic clothes washers may require
increased temperature water. By setting the thermostat on this water heater to
obtain the increased temperature water required by these appliances, the
potential for scald injury increases. To protect against injury, you should install
an ASSE approved mixing valve in the water system. This valve will reduce
point of discharge temperature by mixing cold and hot water in branch supply
lines. Such valves are available from the manufacturer of this water heater or
a local plumbing supplier. Please consult with a plumbing professional.
WARNING
Hydrogen gas can be produced in an operating water heater that
has not had water drawn from the tank for a long period of time
(generally two weeks or more). Hydrogen gas is extremely
flammable. To prevent the possibility of injury under these
conditions, we recommend the hot water faucet to be open for
several minutes at the kitchen sink before you use any electrical
appliance, which is connected to the hot water system. If hydrogen
is present, there will be an unusual sound such as air escaping
through the pipes as hot water begins to flow. Do not smoke or
have open flame near the faucet at the time it is open.
APPROXIMATE TIME/TEMPERATURE RELATIONSHIPS IN SCALDS
120°F (49°C)
More than 5 minutes
125°F (52°C)
1½ to 2 minutes
130°F (54°C)
About 30 seconds
135°F (57°C)
About 10 seconds
140°F (60°C)
Less than 5 seconds
145°F (63°C)
Less than 3 seconds
150°F (66°C)
About 1½ seconds
155°F (68°C)
About 1 second

15
Gas Connections
The gas supply lines must meet all requirements of the National Fuel Gas
Code (ANSI Z223.1-Latest Edition), or in Canada CAN/CGA B149.1 Natural
Gas Installation Code (Latest Edition) or CAN/CGA B149.2 Propane
Installation Code (Latest Edition).
The minimum permissible gas supply pressure for the purpose of input
adjustment is one (1.0) inch (0.25 kPa) water column above the operating
manifold pressure. See the rating plate and gas valve for the manifold
pressure and gas type. The maximum permissible gas supply pressure is
fourteen (14.0) inches (3.5 kPa) water column for natural gas and liquefied
petroleum gases/propane gas.
1. Connect this water heater only to the type of gas (Natural or Propane gas)
as shown on the rating plate. Use clean black iron pipe or equivalent
material approved by local codes and ordinances. (Dirt and scale from the
pipe can enter the gas valve and cause it to malfunction). The inlet gas
line must have a minimum length of three (3) inches (7.6 cm) drip leg
(sediment trap) installed as close to the water heater’s gas valve as
possible. A ground joint union must be installed as close to the water
heater as possible in the gas supply line feeding the water heater to
permit servicing of the water heater. Compounds used on the threaded
joints of the gas piping must be resistant to the action of liquefied
petroleum gases/propane gas. DO NOT apply pipe dope to the gas valve
inlet and make certain that no pipe dope has become lodged in the inlet
screen of the gas valve. Extreme care must be taken to ensure no pipe
dope enters the gas valve. Avoid excessive torque when tightening the
gas supply line to the gas valve. Excessive torque may result in cracking
of the gas valve housing and could create a gas leak. When tightening
gas supply line to L.P. control, it is recommended to hold the inlet body of
the control securely with an adequate wrench. The suggested maximum
torque is 31.5 ft. lbs. (4.4 kg-m).
2. This water heater and its gas connection must be leak tested before
placing the water heater in operation. Check for gas leaks with a soap and
water solution and a brush or a commercial leak detector fluid. NEVER
USE A MATCH OR OPEN FLAME FOR TESTING!
WARNING
The manufacturer of this water heater will not be liable for any damage
or injury caused as a result of a cracked gas inlet as a result of
excessive torque.

16
Installation (Water Connections) continued-
3. While checking for leaks care must be taken to prevent solution from
contacting the electrical connections at the control. If electrical
connections at the control become wet, they must be thoroughly dried
before attempting to operate the water heater.
CAUTION
The water heater and individual shutoff valve must be disconnected
from the gas supply piping system during any pressure testing of the
system at test pressures in excess of 1/2 psi (3.5 kPa). The water
heater must be isolated from the gas supply piping system by closing its
manual shutoff valve during any pressure testing of the gas supply
system at test pressures equal to or less than 1/2 psi (3.5 kPa). The
supply line must be capped when not connected to the water heater.
WARNING
The gas inlet pressure to the gas control must never exceed 14
inches of water column (1/2 psi). The gas supply system and any
pressure regulating device in the gas line must be specified,
inspected and adjusted to assure a gas supply pressure of 1/2 psi
or less. Failure to do so may result in severe injury or death.

17
GENERAL OPERATION
TO FILL THE WATER HEATER
Close the water heater drain valve by turning the knob clockwise
.
1. Open the cold-water supply shut-off valve.
2. Open several hot water faucets to allow air to escape from the system.
3. When a steady stream of water flows from the faucets, the water heater is
filled. Close the faucets and check for water leaks at the water heater
drain valve, combination temperature and pressure relief valve and the
hot and cold-water connections.
TO DRAIN THE WATER HEATER
Should it become necessary to completely drain the water heater, make sure
you follow the steps below:
1. For the White Rodgers mechanical control, rotate the thermostat dial
clockwise
to the lowest possible position, OR for the Honeywell and
the White Rodgers electronic controls, rotate the thermostat dial counter-
clockwise
to the lowest possible position.
2. For the White Rodgers mechanical control, partially depress and rotate
the gas control knob clockwise
to the “OFF” position.
3. Shut off the gas supply to the water heater.
4. Close the cold-water supply shut-off valve.
5. Open the drain valve on the water heater by turning the knob counter-
clockwise
. The drain valve has threads on the end that will allow
the connection of a standard hose coupling.
6. Open a hot water faucet to allow air to enter the system.
To refill the water heater, refer to “To Fill the Water Heater.”
WARNING
Water heaters are heat producing appliances. To avoid damage or
injury there must be no materials stored against the water heater or
vent-air intake system, and proper care must be taken to avoid
unnecessary contact (especially by children) with the water heater and
vent-air intake system. UNDER NO CIRCUMSTANCES SHOULD
FLAMMABLE MATERIALS, SUCH AS GASOLINE OR PAINT
THINNER TO BE USED OR STORED IN THE VICINITY OF THIS
WATER HEATER, VENT-AIR INTAKE SYSTEM OR IN ANY
LOCATION FROM WHICH FUMES COULD REACH THE WATER
HEATER OR VENT-AIR INTAKE SYSTEM.
WARNING
Wait at least (2) minutes after this control is pressurized with gas
before attempting to light pilot and/or push igniter button. Failure
to do so may result in severe injury.

18
Lighting and Shutdown Instructions-White Rodgers
Mechanical Gas Control

19
Lighting and shutdown instructions-White Rodgers
Electronic Gas Control

20
Lighting and Shutdown Instructions-Honeywell Gas Controls