## A.O. Smith Gas Water Heater Manual
### Table of Contents
[Introduction](#introduction)
[Safety Precautions](#safety-precautions)
[Installation Instructions](#installation-instructions)
[Operating Instructions](#operating-instructions)
[Maintenance and Troubleshooting](#maintenance-and-troubleshooting)
[Warranty](#warranty)
### Introduction
Thank you for purchasing an A.O. Smith gas water heater. This manual provides important information on the safe installation, operation, and maintenance of your water heater. Please read and follow all instructions carefully before operating the water heater.
### Safety Precautions
WARNING: Failure to follow these safety precautions could result in serious injury or death.
Never install or operate a gas water heater in a closed or partially closed space. Carbon monoxide, a colorless, odorless gas, can accumulate and cause asphyxiation.
Do not store or use gasoline or other flammable liquids near the water heater.
Keep the area around the water heater clear of combustible materials.
Do not operate the water heater with the gas valve turned off.
Do not tamper with the gas valve or any other part of the water heater.
If you smell gas, leave the area immediately and call your gas supplier.
Do not attempt to repair the water heater yourself. Contact a qualified technician for all repairs.
### Installation Instructions
WARNING: Installation of a gas water heater must be performed by a qualified technician in accordance with all applicable codes and standards.
Tools and Materials Required:
Adjustable wrench
Pipe wrench
Teflon tape
Thread sealant
Level
Screwdriver
Drill
Steps:
1. Choose a suitable location: The water heater should be installed in a well-ventilated area, away from combustible materials and sources of ignition.
2. Mount the water heater: The water heater should be mounted on a level surface using the provided mounting brackets.
3. Connect the gas supply: Use a flexible gas line and connect it to the gas inlet on the water heater. Be sure to apply Teflon tape or thread sealant to the threads.
4. Connect the water supply: Use copper or CPVC pipes to connect the water heater to the cold water supply. Be sure to install a water heater drain valve near the bottom of the tank.
5. Connect the drain line: Connect a drain line to the drain valve on the water heater. The drain line should be routed to a suitable drain location.
6. Test the water heater: Turn on the gas supply and water supply. Check for leaks and proper operation.
### Operating Instructions
Set the temperature: Use the thermostat knob to set the desired water temperature.
Turn on the water heater: Turn the gas valve to the “ON” position.
Wait for hot water: It may take several minutes for the water heater to produce hot water.
Adjust the temperature (optional): If the water is too hot or too cold, adjust the thermostat knob accordingly.
### Maintenance and Troubleshooting
Regular Maintenance:
Flush the water heater annually to remove sediment.
Inspect the gas burner and pilot light annually and clean if necessary.
Check the anode rod every 3-5 years and replace if necessary.
Troubleshooting:
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|—|—|—|
| No hot water | Gas valve turned off | Turn on the gas valve. |
| Water is too hot | Thermostat set too high | Lower the thermostat setting. |
| Water is too cold | Thermostat set too low | Raise the thermostat setting. |
| Leaks | Loose connections | Tighten all connections. |
| Pilot light won’t stay lit | Dirty or clogged pilot light | Clean or replace the pilot light. |
### Warranty
A.O. Smith offers a limited warranty on its gas water heaters. The warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship for a specified period of time. Refer to the warranty document for specific details.
### Additional Resources
[A.O. Smith website](https://www.aosmith.com/)
[Customer support](1-800-591-5745)