Safety Warnings
WARNING: EXPLOSION HAZARD.
Can cause severe injury or death.
- Call a qualified serviceman if the control does not work properly.
- Do not use the control if it has been flooded.
- Do not take apart the valve inside this control.
Reference: 394606-7 Rev. A

Product Overview
The Honeywell Reliance WT8840B Gas Control Valve is designed for use with water heaters, regulating gas flow to the burner to maintain desired water temperatures. This control valve ensures safe and efficient operation of your water heating system.
Key Features:
- Designed for upright mounting.
- Integrated NTC temperature sensor for accurate water temperature readings up to 221°F (105°C).
- Wide operating temperature range: 32°F to 150°F.
- Pressure regulator setting: 5.0 in. Wc.
- Inlet/Outlet Size: 1/2 inch NPT x 1/2 inch Inverted Flare.
- Gas capacity: Minimum 30 ft³/hr, Maximum 75 ft³/hr.
Specifications
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Material | Metal |
| Brand | Honeywell |
| Item dimensions L x W x H | 8 x 6 x 6 inches |
| Exterior Finish | Brass or Stainless Steel |
| Inlet Connection Type | National Pipe Tapered (NPT) |
| Outlet Connection Type | Flare |
| Maximum Operating Pressure | 5 Pound per Square Inch (PSI) |
| Number of Ports | 2 |
| Outlet Connection Size | 0.5 Inches |
| Specification Met | Yes, meets relevant industry standards for gas control valves in water heaters |
Installation Instructions
Installation of the Honeywell Reliance WT8840B Gas Control Valve should only be performed by a qualified professional to ensure safety and proper operation. Incorrect installation can lead to gas leaks, fire, explosion, or carbon monoxide poisoning.
General Guidelines:
- Preparation: Ensure the gas supply to the water heater is turned off and the water heater is depressurized.
- Mounting: The valve must be mounted in the upright position as specified by the manufacturer.
- Gas Connections: Connect the gas inlet and outlet lines to the valve. The inlet is typically 1/2 inch NPT and the outlet is 1/2 inch Inverted Flare. Use appropriate pipe sealant on threaded connections.
- Temperature Sensor: Ensure the integrated NTC temperature sensor is correctly positioned within the water heater's cavity to accurately read water temperature.
- Leak Test: After installation, perform a thorough leak test on all gas connections using a non-corrosive leak detection solution.
- Ventilation: Verify that the water heater area has adequate ventilation.
Always refer to the complete installation manual provided with your water heater and local plumbing codes for detailed, specific instructions.
Operating Instructions
The Honeywell Reliance WT8840B Gas Control Valve operates automatically to maintain the set water temperature within your water heater. Once installed and the water heater is powered on and gas supply is active, the valve will regulate gas flow to the burner based on the water temperature detected by its NTC sensor.
Normal Operation:
- The valve continuously monitors water temperature.
- When water temperature drops below the set point, the valve opens to allow gas to flow to the burner, initiating the heating cycle.
- Once the water reaches the set temperature, the valve closes, shutting off the gas supply to the burner.
- The operating temperature range for the valve is 32°F to 150°F, with the NTC sensor capable of reading up to 221°F (105°C).
Do not attempt to manually override or tamper with the gas control valve settings unless specifically instructed by a qualified technician.
Maintenance
The Honeywell Reliance WT8840B Gas Control Valve is designed for reliable operation with minimal user maintenance. Regular inspection by a qualified professional is recommended to ensure continued safe and efficient performance.
Recommended Maintenance:
- Annual Inspection: Have a qualified HVAC or plumbing technician inspect the gas control valve and the entire water heater system annually.
- Visual Check: Periodically check for any visible signs of damage, corrosion, or gas leaks (e.g., sulfur smell). If a gas smell is detected, immediately evacuate the area, turn off the main gas supply if safe to do so, and contact your gas provider and a qualified technician.
- Cleaning: Do not attempt to clean the internal components of the gas control valve. External surfaces can be wiped with a damp cloth if necessary, ensuring no moisture enters the control.
Any repairs or internal servicing of the gas control valve must be performed by a qualified professional. Do not attempt to disassemble the valve.
Troubleshooting
If your water heater is not functioning correctly, the gas control valve may be a factor. The valve typically includes a status light to indicate operational status or fault codes. Refer to the 'STATUS LIGHT GUIDE' (often found on the control itself or in the water heater's manual) for specific diagnostic information.
Common Issues and Actions:
- No Hot Water: Check if the gas supply is on. Verify the water heater's pilot light (if applicable) is lit. Consult the status light on the gas control valve for error codes.
- Insufficient Hot Water: Ensure the temperature setting on the water heater is appropriate.
- Gas Smell: IMMEDIATELY evacuate the premises, turn off the main gas supply if safe to do so, and contact your gas provider and a qualified technician. Do not operate any electrical switches or phones from inside the building.
- Control Not Working Properly: As stated in the safety warnings, if the control does not work properly, call a qualified serviceman. Do not attempt to repair it yourself.
For any persistent issues or if you suspect a malfunction with the gas control valve, contact a qualified service technician. Do not attempt to repair or modify the valve yourself.
Warranty and Support
For warranty information, technical support, or to locate authorized service providers, please refer to the documentation provided with your water heater or contact Honeywell customer support directly. Ensure you have your product model number (WT8840B or 100112336) and serial number available when contacting support.
You can typically find support contact information on the Honeywell official website or through your product's original purchase documentation.