Troubleshooting Energy Smart® Gas Water Heaters

Energy Smart® Gas Water Heaters have a Status Light Code label on the Control Board and a Diagnostic chart in the Installation Instructions. The Status Light can help you diagnose problems.

WATER LEAKS

The first time a new gas water heater is started, it will produce condensation. You may hear drips or sizzling sounds coming from the water heater. You may see a small puddle underneath. Condensation is caused by the cooling effect of the tank being filled with cold water. Condensation is not a leak. Once the water heater reaches normal operating temperature, condensation will go away.

With a new water heater, most leaks are caused by leaking connections at the hot water outlet or cold water inlet. Occasionally, leaks can be found coming from a fitting (such as around the Temperature and Pressure Relief Valve). Leaking fittings can often be tightened or repaired. It is extremely rare for a new tank to leak.

WATER DRIPS

If drips are noticed coming from the discharge pipe of the Temperature and Pressure Relief Valve, the home's water pressure may be too high or a thermal expansion tank may be needed (see below). (If large quantities of hot water are coming from the discharge pipe, turn the gas off and consult a qualified technician.) Do not cap or plug the discharge pipe.

WATER PRESSURE

Check your home's water pressure with a gauge. The recommended water pressure is 50 to 60 PSIG. If the pressure is higher than that, install a Pressure Regulating Valve (or adjust your existing pressure regulating valve if you have one). For water pressure issues, consult your local water utility or a qualified plumber. Most plumbing codes require a Pressure Regulating Valve if the water pressure is above 80 PSIG.

THERMAL EXPANSION TANK

When water is heated, it expands. In older homes, the expanded water pushed back into the water main. Today, most homes have backflow prevention valves which stop the water in your home from reentering the water supply. These valves can be inside water softeners, pressure regulating valves or the water meter itself. Backflow prevention valves (also known as "check valves") prevent the expanded water from reentering the water main. Since the expanded water now has nowhere to go, the water pressure in the house's pipes can increase dramatically, often to the point where the Temperature and Pressure Relief Valve discharge pipe drips. A thermal expansion tank has an internal air bladder which can absorb the expanded water, protecting plumbing, appliances and the water heater. For these reasons, most homes now need a thermal expansion tank (and a properly adjusted pressure regulating valve). Not having a thermal expansion tank is the most common reason for a dripping discharge pipe.

View The Printable Guide (PDF)
"Thermal Expansion Tank"