Appliances – Airstream NTERSTATE User Manual
Page 94
I
APPLIANCES
I - 5
WATER HEATER
WARNING
: Most LP gas appliances used in recreational vehicles are
vented to the outside of the vehicle. Check the exterior areas of your unit for
clearance in these areas. Turn all gas operated appliances off when parked close
to a gasoline pump, it is possible that gasoline fumes could enter these types of
appliances and ignite from the burner flame or automatic igniters, CAUSING A
FIRE OR AN EXPLOSION.
Manufacturer:
Atwood Mobile Products 4750
Hiawatha Drive P.O. Box 1205
Rockford, Illinois 61105
Phone: 815-877-7461
Note: Review the water heater literature supplied in your Owner’s Packet before pro-
ceeding,
CAUTION
: Hydrogen gas can be produced in a hot water system served by this
heater that has not been used for a long period of time (generally two weeks or
more). Hydrogen gas is extremely flammable. To reduce the risk of injury under
these conditions, it is recommended that the hot water faucet he opened for sev-
eral minutes at the kitchen sink before using any electrical appliance connected
to the hot water system. If hydrogen is present, there will probably be an unusual
sound such as air escaping through the pipe as the water begins to flow. There
should be no smoking or open flame near the faucet at the time it is open.
Water Heater Draining
All models have a drain plug or petcock on the water heater. Access is from the exte-
rior. The plug or valve is usually located in the lower left corner, viewed as you face the
exterior of the water heater.
SAFETY
If your water system is full and cold and the water heater is ignited, the system can
produce pressures as high as 120 psi before the relief valve starts to open. Since the
water system normally operates in the 40-psi range the water expansion does put
unusual stress on the system. This normally does not cause any problems, but the
stress is easily alleviated. As the water is heating just open any faucet and run as little
as a cup of water. Just removing this small amount of water reduces the pressure build
up significantly.
For fun, watch the sequence of events your family goes through when you park the
motorhome and ignite the water heater. More than likely, someone will run water and
relieve the pressure without even realizing it.