PVI Industries Water Heater User Manual

PV500-33  05-2002 

4 

Section 33 

 
8.  Open water outlet valve. Water heater is ready for operation. Heat up time will be dependent on 

input and tank capacity. 

 

9.  After startup and with the water heater operating, allow the water in the tank to reach desired 

temperature and the heating elements shut off. Draw hot water from a nearby outlet valve until 
the heating elements energize. This will assure proper operation of the heating elements, 
thermostat and other operating controls. 

 
 

 

1.  A preventative maintenance program should be established to assure a long, trouble free life of 

the water heater. 

 

2.  Flushing of the tank is recommended every two or three months, depending on water 

conditions. To flush, disconnect (lockout) power to the unit. Open the drain valve and allow 
water to flow through the tank until it runs clear. Close the drain valve. Draining two or three 
gallons of water from the bottom of the tank on a weekly basis will also help prevent the 
accumulation of sediment. A scale of lime will normally form on the heating elements and the 
surface of the tank during heating cycles. The more hot water used, the more fresh water 
containing the scale-forming elements are brought into the tank. As the temperature increases, 
the rate of scale deposited will also increase. Sediment and scale accumulations in the tank will 
greatly reduce the heating ability of the heater by reducing the effectiveness of the heat transfer 
surfaces and can result in element failure. 

 

3.  Since PVI cannot control the use of the water heater, the water conditions or maintenance, the 

warranty on the heating elements does not cover poor performance, structural failure or leaking 
due to an excessive accumulation of scale. 

 

4.  The temperature and pressure  relief valve should be checked at regular intervals. Open and 

close the valve to insure proper operation. If the valve does not open or close properly when 
tested, it must be replaced. Replace the relief valve with a like kind or one meeting the 
requirements stated on the rating decal located on the valve. 

 

 

5.  All electrical connections must be checked two weeks after startup to assure tightness. Heating 

and cooling from operation can loosen connections. Every month, connections should be 
inspected for any discoloration of wire terminal points. 

 

6.  The contactors are sealed and require no periodic maintenance other than checking wire 

connections. These contactors contain MERCURY and must be returned directly to the 
manufacturer for proper disposal. To return contactors, please call WATLOW CUSTOMER 
SERVICE 

@

507-454-5300 for a “Return Material Authorization” number. Mail the contactor 

directly to the address provided by WATLOW CUSTOMER SERVICE for proper disposal. 
Contact PVI 

@

800-433-5654 to purchase the new contactor. Please have the water heater serial 

number when ordering replacement contactors and the printed rating of the contactor to be 
replaced. 

 

7.  Fuses for the load circuits are fast acting to prevent the contactor from rupturing in the event of 

a heater short circuit. Replace with same type and rating.