Seaward S-600 Water Heater

[Steve]

On my 2000 Hunter 340, I have a Seaward S-600 water heater/heat exchanger. It has received minimal use since new. I turned on the power to the unit and at the temperature/pressure valve it discharges water into the bilge about every 15 seconds for a short burst of 1-2 seconds. In the owner's manual it states that during initial operation, weeping may occur and it is normal. However, this is more than normal. I have opened the relief valve thinking it may be sticking open or it is not seating properly. It still continues to run in this manner. Of course, when the power to the water pump is secured it stops as it cannot draw water from the system. Is this a normal occurence for this unit and are there are recommendations for correction other than replacing the temperature/ pressure valve? Thanks

 

[Steve Dion]

Contact Seaward about a replacment

Steve:Contact Seaward about a replacment POP off valve. They should not be doing this. It may have over heated and is now weak?We are on our second water heater (replaced it about 3 years ago) and have never had that problem. They do tend to get very hot thought.

 

[Roy Mosteller]

Replaced My Pressure Valve

Replaced the Seaward water heater on my H-30T (1991) several years ago. I recently discovered the source of mysterious water in the bilge came from the heater pressure valve when the engine was running (about 4-5 oz/hour). I called Seaward (562-699-0908) and they advised the valve was defective and without hestiation they sent me a free replacement without asking how long I had been using the valve. So, phone them.

 

[Steve]

I contacted Seaward and it is a faulty temp/pressure valve. ALthough it is out of warranty, they are sending one at no charge. That is a pleasant surprise.

 

[Roy Mosteller]

Seaward Service

Sounds like you had the same experience with Seaward that I had. As soon as they established my pressure valve was defective they offered a replacement even though I am sure I was out of warranty. I wish all the marine companies would stand behind their products as readily as Seaward appears to be doing.