Rheem Electric 20 to 120 Gallon Manual PDF
Single and Double Element Models, Residential 20–120 Gallon
The purpose of this manual is twofold: one, to provide the installer with the basic directions and recommendations for the proper installation and adjustment of the water heater; and two, for the owner–operator, to explain the features, operation, safety precautions, maintenance and troubleshooting of the water heater. This manual also includes a parts list. It is imperative that all persons who are expected to install, operate or adjust this water heater read the instructions carefully so they may understand how to perform these operations. If you do not understand these instructions or any terms within it, seek professional advice. Any questions regarding the operation, maintenance, service or warranty of this water heater should be directed to the seller from whom it was purchased. If additional information is required, refer to the section on “If you need service.”
Single and Double Element Models, Residential 20–120 Gallon
The purpose of this manual is twofold: one, to provide the installer with the basic directions and recommendations for the proper installation and adjustment of the water heater; and two, for the owner–operator, to explain the features, operation, safety precautions, maintenance and troubleshooting of the water heater. This manual also includes a parts list.
It is imperative that all persons who are expected to install, operate or adjust this water heater read the instructions carefully so they may understand how to perform these operations. If you do not understand these instructions or any terms within it, seek professional advice.
Any questions regarding the operation, maintenance, service or warranty of this water heater should be directed to the seller from whom it was purchased. If additional information is required, refer to the section on “If you need service.”
Installing the water heater.
The location chosen for the water heater must take into consideration the following:
Local Installation Regulations
This water heater must be installed in accordance with these instructions, local codes, utility codes, utility company requirements or, in the absence of local codes, the latest edition of the National Electrical Code. It is available from some local libraries or can be purchased from the National Fire Protection Association, Batterymarch Park, Quincy, MA 02269 as booklet ANSI/NFPA 70.
Location
Locate the water heater in a clean dry area as near as practical to the area of greatest heated water demand. Long un-insulated hot water lines can waste energy and water.
Place the water heater in such a manner that the thermostat and element access panels can be removed to permit inspection and servicing such as removal of elements or checking controls.
The water heater and water lines should be protected from freezing temperatures. Do not install the water heater in outdoor, unprotected areas. Make certain the floor underneath the water heater is strong enough to sufficiently support the weight of the water heater once it is filled with water.
Installing the water heater
Determine if a check valve exists in the inlet water line. Check with your local water utility. It may have been installed in the cold water line as a separate back flow preventer, or it may be part of a pressure reducing valve, water meter or water softener. A check valve located in the cold water inlet line can cause what is referred to as a “closed water system”. A cold water inlet line with no check valve or back flow prevention device is referred to as an “open” water system.
As water is heated, it expands in volume and creates an increase in the pressure within the water system. This action is referred to as “thermal expansion”. In an “open” water system, expanding water which exceeds the capacity of the water heater flows back into the city main where the pressure is easily dissipated.
A “closed water system”, however, prevents the expanding water from flowing back into the main supply line, and the result of “thermal expansion” can create a rapid and dangerous pressure increase in the water heater and system piping. This rapid pressure increase can quickly reach the safety setting of the relief valve, causing it to operate during each heating cycle. Thermal expansion, and the resulting rapid and repeated expansion and contraction of components in the water heater and piping system can cause premature failure of the relief valve, and possibly the heater itself. Replacing the relief valve will not correct the problem!
The suggested method of controlling thermal expansion is to install an expansion tank in the cold water line between the water heater and the check valve (refer to the illustration below). The expansion tank is designed with an air cushion built in that compresses as the system pressure increases, thereby relieving the over pressure condition and eliminating the repeated operation of the relief valve. Other methods of controlling thermal expansion are also available. Contact your installing contractor, water supplier or plumbing inspector for additional information regarding this subject.
Water Supply Connections
Refer to the illustration below for suggested typical installation. The installation of unions or flexible copper connectors is recommended on the hot and cold water connections so that the water heater may be easily disconnected for servicing if necessary. The HOT and COLD water connections are clearly marked and are 3/4″ NPT on all models. Install a shut-off valve in the cold water line near the water heater
Relief Valve
The BTUH rating of the relief valve must not be less than the input rating of the water heater as indicated on the rating label located on the front of the heater
(1 watt=3.412 BTUH).
Connect the outlet of the relief valve
to a suitable open drain so that the discharge water cannot contact live electrical parts or persons and to eliminate potential water damage.
Piping used should be of a type approved for hot water distribution. The discharge line must be no smaller than the outlet of the valve and must pitch downward from the valve to allow complete drainage (by gravity) of the relief valve and discharge line. The end of the discharge line should not be threaded or concealed and should be protected from freezing. No valve of any type, restriction or reducer coupling should be installed in the discharge line.
To Fill the Water Heater
- Make certain the drain valve is completely closed.
- Open the shut-off valve in the cold water supply line.
- Open each hot water faucet slowly to allow the air to vent from the water heater and piping.
- A steady flow of water from the hot water faucet(s) indicates a full water heater.
Condensation
Condensation can form on the tank when it is first filled with water. Condensation might also occur with a heavy water draw and very cold inlet water temperature.
This condition is not unusual, and will disappear after the water becomes heated. If, however, the condensation continues, examine the piping and fittings for possible leaks
Electrical Connections
A separate branch circuit with copper conductors, overcurrent protective device and suitable disconnecting means must be provided by a qualified electrician. All wiring must conform to local codes or latest edition of National Electrical Code ANSI/NFPA 70. The water heater is completely wired to the junction box inside jacket at the top front of the water heater. An opening for 1/2″ or 3/4″ electrical fitting is provided for field wiring connections. The voltage requirements and wattage load for the water heater are specified on the rating plate on the front of the water heater.
The branch circuit wiring should include either:
- Metallic conduit or metallic sheathed cable approved for use as a grounding conductor and installed with fittings approved for the purpose.
- Non-metallic sheathed cable, metallic conduit or metallic sheathed cable not approved for use as a ground conductor shall include a separate conductor for grounding. It should be attached to the ground terminals of the water heater and the electrical distribution box.
Branch Circuit Sizing and Wire Size Guide
- Single Phase Wiring
- 3 Phase Wiring
Insulation Blankets
Insulation blankets, available to the general public, for external use on electric water heaters are not necessary. The purpose of an insulation blanket is to reduce the standby heat loss encountered with storage tank heaters. This water heater meets or exceeds the National Appliance Energy Conservation Act standards with respect to insulation and standby loss requirements making an insulation blanket unnecessary.
The manufacturer’s warranty does not cover any damage or defect caused by installation, attachment or use of
any type of energy saving or other unapproved devices (other than those authorized by the manufacturer) into, onto or in conjunction with the water heater. The use of unauthorized energy saving devices may shorten the life of the water heater and may endanger life and property.
The manufacturer disclaims any responsibility for such loss or injury resulting from the use of such unauthorized devices.
- Do not cover the operating or warning labels attached to the water heater or attempt to relocate them on the exterior of insulation blanket.
- Do not apply insulation to the top of the water heater. This could interfere with the safe operation of the electrical junction box.
- Do not cover the jacket access panel(s) to the thermostat(s) and heating element(s), or pressure and temperature relief valve.
- Inspect the insulation blanket frequently.
Readmore and Rheem Electric 20 to 120 Gallon Manual PDF
| Title | : Rheem Electric 20 to 120 Gallon Manual PDF |
| Format | |
| Pages | : 24 Pages |
| Language | : English |
| File Size | : 1 MB |
