Kenmore 31813 Owners Manual - Page 19

Service and Adjustment (cont'd) Element Cleaning/ Replacement (cont'd) 17. Replace the insulation pad and tape on so that it completely covers the thermostat and element. Drain Valve Washer Replacement NOTE: For replacement, use a _2" x _¾_"x g_" thick washer available at your nearest hardware store. For ordering a replacement washer, refer to the Repair Parts section. • Before beginning turn "OFF" the electrical power supply to the water heater. AWARNING HAZARD OF ELECTRICAL SHOCK! Before removing any access panels or servicing the water heater, make sure the electrical supply to the water heater is turned "OFF". Failure to do this could result in DEATH, SERIOUS BODILY INJURY,OR PROPERTY DAMAGE. 18. Replace access panel. 19. "[hrn "ON" electric power to water heater. I I • Follow "Draining" instructions in the "Service andAdjustment" section. • "[iirning counter clockwise, remove the hex cap below the screw handle. • Remove the washer and put the new one in place. • Screw the handle and cap assembly back into the drain valve and retighten using a wrench. DO NOT OVER TIGHTEN. • Follow "Filling the Water Heater" instructions in the "Installation Instructions" section. • Check for leaks. • "[hrn "ON" electric power to the water heater. A CAUTION I Never use this water heater unless it is completely I full of water. To prevent damage to the tank and I heating element, the tank must be filled with I water. Water must flow from the hot water faucet before turn ng ' ON ' power. _HANDLE AND CAP ASSEMBLY WASHER Anode Rod Inspection 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 cor- Service roding the tank, water ions attack and eat away the anode rod. "['his does not affect the water's taste or color. "['he rod must be Before calling for repair service, read the Start Up Conditions maintained to keep the tank in operating condition. Anode deterioration depends on water conductivity, not necessarily water condition. A corroded or pitted anode rod 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 and Operational Conditions found in the Troubleshooting Guide of this manual. If a condition persists or you are uncertain about the operation of the water heater, let a qualified person check it out. Contact SEARS Repair Services at 1-800-4-MY-HOME (1-800-4694663). water heater. Inspection should be conducted by a Sears service technician, and at a minimum should be checked annually after the warranty period. 19