HOT WATER TANK
Maintaining a natural gas water heater
- Keep the area around your water heater free of clutter. Dust, debris or sawdust might block the air intakes at the bottom of the tank.
- If you decide to insulate the hot water pipe that runs from the top of the tank, make sure you use fire resistant commercial grade pipe wrap or insulation.
- Do not insulate closer than 15 cm (six inches) from the exhaust duct or pipe at the top of the tank. Be careful not to obstruct any controls or the air intake.
- To save energy and reduce the risk of scalding, we recommend that you set your water temperature at 55°C (130°F).
Testing and adjusting water temperature
Wait until hot water has not been run for several hours, then turn on a faucet near the water heater and let the water run for a few minutes. Fill a cup and place a thermometer in it. If the temperature is above 55°C, set the water heater thermostat lower.
If your natural gas water heater thermostat is marked only “Hot” and “Warm”, “Hot” means about 60°C (140°F). To reduce the water temperature, set the thermostat slightly lower and check the water temperature on the next day.