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Performing a Draft Test

Step 1: Tools and Supplies

Smoke device, such as a punk for fireworks

  • Smoke device, such as a punk for fireworks

Step 2: Draft Test

<strong>The water heater installation must supply adequate combustion air.</strong>

  • The water heater installation must supply adequate combustion air.

  • Conduct a “draft test” to ensure that the room provides enough air for the water heater to operate safely.

  • To conduct a draft test, first close all windows and doors.

Step 3: Turn on All Air Moving Devices

Turn on all air moving devices such as kitchen range vents, bathroom fans, furnaces, and clothes dryers.

  • Turn on all air moving devices such as kitchen range vents, bathroom fans, furnaces, and clothes dryers.

Step 4: Light the Water Heater's Burner

<strong>The water heater's burner must be operating to perform a draft test.</strong>

  • The water heater's burner must be operating to perform a draft test.

  • Open a hot water faucet and let the hot water run until the burner fires. (This may take several minutes).

Step 5: Smoke Device

Place the smoke device near the draft hood openings.
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  • Place the smoke device near the draft hood openings.

  • Within five minutes of main burner operation, the smoke source should be drawn into draft hood.

  • If the smoke is not drawn into the draft hood, turn the gas control knob OFF, turn the gas supply valve OFF, and click on "Need More Help" below

  • DO NOT operate a water heater that is not drafting properly!

Need More Help?