GE SG50T12TVT Use and Care Manual - Page 23

Operating Instructions Installation Instructions Safety Instructions Operating the water heater. CAUTION: Hydrogen gas can be produced in a hot water system served by this water heater that has not been used for a long period of time (generally two weeks or more). HYDROGEN GAS IS EXTREMELY FLAMMABLE!! To dissipate such gas and to reduce risk of injury, 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 be an unusual sound such as air escaping through the pipe as the water begins to flow. Do not smoke or use an open flame near the faucet at the time it is open. Safety Precautions Do turn off manual gas shut-off valve if water heater Do Not store or use gasoline or other flammable has been subjected to over heating, fire, flood, vapors and liquids, such as adhesives or paint thinner, physical damage or if the gas supply fails to shut off. in vicinity of this or any other appliance. If such flammables must be used, open doors Do Not turn on water heater unless it is completely filled with water. and windows for ventilation, and all gas burning appliances in the vicinity should be shut off including their pilot burners, to avoid vapors lighting. Do Not turn on water heater if cold water supply shut-off valve is closed. Do Not allow combustible materials such as NOTICE: Flammable vapors can be drawn by air currents from surrounding areas to the water heater. newspaper, rags or mops to accumulate near water heater. If there is any difficulty in understanding or following the Operating Instructions or the Care and Cleaning section, it is recommended that a qualified person or serviceman perform the work. Operating Procedure This heater is equipped with an electronically lit pilot to light the main burner. The pilot is automatically lit each time there is a demand for heating the water. On initial start-up, it is recommended that the outer door be removed (leave inner door in place for safety) to determine if the pilot and main burner are operating properly. Once filled with water, it is necessary to plug the power cord in and make sure the "ON/ OFF" switch located on the blower assembly is in the "ON" position and the gas control switch is in the "ON" position. The blower will start and within seconds the pilot will light followed by the main burner. After the main burner ignites, replace the outer door. If no main burner flame is established, the gas control will go through three trials for ignition before going into a lock-out. A warning light will alert the user of this lock-out condition. If this happens, refer to "Troubleshooting Guide." Care and Cleaning Troubleshooting Tips ! DANGER: Hotter water increases the Potential for Hot Water SCALDS. Households with small children, disabled, or elderly persons may require a 120°F or lower gas control (thermostat) setting to prevent contact with HOT water. Water Temperature Setting The temperature of the water in the water heater can be regulated by pressing the button on the front of the gas control (thermostat). Safety and energy conservation are factors to be considered when selecting the water temperature setting of the water heater's gas control (thermostat(s)). The lower the temperature setting, the greater the savings in energy and operating costs. To comply with safety regulations, the gas control (thermostat) was set at its lowest setting before the water heater was shipped from the factory. The recommended starting point temperature is 120°F. Water temperatures above 125°F can cause severe burns or death from scalding. Be sure to read and follow the warnings outlined in this manual and on the label located on the water heater near the gas control thermostat. Mixing valves are available for reducing point of use water temperature by mixing hot and cold water in branch water lines. Contact a licensed plumber or the local plumbing authority for further information. (See page 4 for more details.) The chart below may be used as a guide in determining the proper water temperature for your home. 23 Customer Service