GE Appliances GEH5ODNSRSA, Appliances GEH5ODXSRGA, GEH50DNSRSA, GEH50DXSRGA Owner's Manual And Installation Instructions

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GEAppliances.com

Safety Information ........... 2,s

Operating Instructions ..... 4-11

Care and Cleaning ......... 12,13

Installation Instructions...14-1s

GEH5ODNSRSA
GEH5ODXSRGA

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Troubleshooting Tips ...... 19,20

Consumer Support ......... 22,68

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Write the model and serial
numbers here:

Model #
Serial #

Youcan find them on the rating label
on the front side of your water heater.

49-50254 10-09 JR

IMPORTANTSAFETYINFORMATION.

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READALL INSTRUCTIONSBEFOREUSING.

A WARNING!

For your safety, the information in this manual must be followed to minimize the risk of fire or explosion,electric shock, orto
prevent property damage, personal injury, or lossof life.

Be sureto read and understand the entire Owner's Manual before attempting to install or operate this water heater. It may
save you time and cost. Pay particular attention to the Safety Instructions. Failureto follow thesewarnings could result in
serious bodily injury or death. Should you have problems understanding the instructions in this manual, or have any questions,
STOPand get help from a qualified service technician or the local electric utility.

WATER TEMPERATURE ADJUSTMENT

Safety and energy conservation arefactors to be considered when selecting the water temperature setting via the water
heater's user interface. Water temperatures above 125°Fcan cause severe burns or death from scalding. Besure to read and
follow the warnings outlined on the label pictured below.This label isalso located on the water heater near the top of the tank.

Mixingvalvesfor reducing point-of-use water temperature by
mixing hot and cold water in branch water linesare available.
Contact a licensedplumberor the local plumbingauthority for

further information.

Time/Temperature Relationship in Scalds

HOT

120°F
125°F
130°F
135°F
140°F
145°F
150°F
155°F

TablecourtesyofShrinersBUm Institute

More thon 5 minutes

1-1/2 to 2 minutes

About 30 seconds

About 10 seconds
Less thon 5 seconds
Less thon 3 seconds

About 1-1/2 seconds

About i second

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Water temperature over 125°F can
cause severe burns instantly or

death from scalds.
The electronic temperature control

setting usually approximates tap
water temperature. However,

factors could cause water
temperature to reach 180°F

regardless of the control setting.

Always feel water before bathing
and showering.

Children, disabled and elderly are
at highest risk of being scalded.

See instruction manual before
setting temperature at water

heater.
Feel water before bathing or

showering.
Temperature limiting valves are

available; see manual.

Thechart shown above may be used as a guide in determining
the proper water temperature for your home.

NOTE:Households with small children, disabled or elderlg
persons mag require a 120°For lower thermostat setting

to prevent contact with "HOT"water.

A DANGER: ThereisaHotWaterSCALDPotential

if thecontrol water temperature is set too high.

2 SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS

GEAppliances.com

WARNING!

Gasoline, as well as other flammable materials
and liquids (adhesives, solvents, etc.),and the
vapors theg produce are extremelg dangerous.
DONOThandle, use or store gasoline or other
flammable or combustible materials angwhere
near or in the vicinitg of a water heater. The arc
drawn in the water heater controls can ignite
these vapors. Failure to do so can result in
propertg damage, bodilg injurg or death.

_, FOR INSTALLATIONS

IN THE STATEOF CALIFORNIA

California Law requires that residential water
heaters must be braced, anchored or strapped
to resist falling or horizontal displacement due
to earthquake motions. For residential water
heaters up to 52 gallon capacity, a brochure with
generic earthquake bracing instructions can be
obtained from: Office of the State Architect, 400 P
Street, Sacramento, CA 95814 or gou mag call

916.324.5315 or ask a water heater dealer.
However, applicable local codes shall govern

installation. For residential water heaters of a
capacitg greater than 52 gallons, consult the local

building jurisdiction for acceptable bracing
procedures.

California Proposition 65 Warning: This product
contains chemicals known to the State of

California to cause cancer, birth defects or other
reproductive harm.

READAND FOLLOWTHISSAFETYINFORMATIONCAREFULLY.
SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS

Operating the water heater.

A,_ WARNIN G: Hydrogen gas can beproduced in a hot water system served by this water heater that has not been
usedfor a long period of time (generallytwo weeks or more).HYDROGENGASISEXTREMELYFLAP1P1ABLE!!Todissipatesuch gas

and to reduce riskof injury, it isrecommended that the hot water faucet be opened for several minutes at the kitchen sink

before usingany electrical appliance connected to the hot water system. Ifhydrogen ispresent,there will be an unusual sound
such as air escapingthrough the pipeasthe water beginsto flow. Do not smoke or usean open flame near the faucet at the
time it isopen.

Safety Precautions

WARNING:

If the water heater has been

subjected to flood, fire, or phgsical

damage, turn off power and water

to the water heater.

Do not operate the water heater

again until it has been thoroughly

checked by qualified service

personnel.

A. Doturn off power to water heater if

it has beensubjectedto overheating,

fire, flood or physical damage.

B.Do Not turn on water heater unless

it isfilled with water.

C.D.Do Not turn on water heater ifcold

water supply shut-off valve is closed.

Do Not store or usegasoline or other

flammable vapors and liquids,such as

adhesivesor paint thinner,in the vicinity
of this or any other appliance. Ifsuch

flammables must be used,open doors

and windows for ventilation.

Safetg Controls

Thewater heateris equippedwith two
temperature-limitingcontrols (TCOs)that
are located abovethe heating elementin
contact with thetank surface.Iffor any

reasonthe water temperaturebecomes
excessivelyhigh,the temperature-limiting
control (TCO)breaksthe power circuitto
the heatingelement. Oncethe control
opens,itmust beresetmanually.Resetting
of thetemperature limiting controlsshould

bedone by a qualifiedservicetechnician.

CAUTION: Thecause

of the high temperature condition must
be investigated bga qualified service

technician and corrective action must
be taken beforeplacing the water heater

in service again.

NOTE:Flammable vapors mag be drawn
bg air currents from surrounding areas to

the water heater.
E.Ifthere isany difficulty inunderstanding

or following the Operating Instructions
or the Careand Cleaning section, it is
recommended that a qualified person
or serviceman perform the work.

To reset the temperature-limiting
control:

1.Turn off the power to the water
heater.

2.

Remove the jacket access ponel(s)
and insulation.

The thermostat protective cover
should not be removed.

3. Press the red RESETbutton.

4. Replace the insulation and jocket
occess panel(s) before turning on

the power to the water heater.

/4

About the controls. GEApp,ionces.com

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Controls

Display

Lock

Pressond hold this button for 3 seconds to
lock or unlockthe woter heoter touch button

controls. Green light is illuminoted when the
controls ore locked.

o Filter

The filter is dirtg ond requires cleoning when

the Redlight is illuminoted. Filter is Iocoted on
top of the woter heoter. Pressbutton to reset

filter olorm.

High Demand

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Usethis button when extro hot water is
needed.This feoture increoses the speed thot

the woter is heoted using more electricitg.
Green light isilluminoted when feoture ison.

Vacation Or Awag

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Usethis button during times of no water
usoge, such osvocotion for on extended
period of time. Feoture will reduce the energg
used during the obsence. Green light is

illuminoted when feoture is on.

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Stop Cold Air

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Usethis button to tempororily stop cold air
coming from the unit orto stop fon noise.
However,the unit will usemore electricitg,
sothis mode should generollg be used onlg
for short periods of time. Green light is

illuminoted when feoture ison.

Energg Menu

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Chonge the woter heoter Operoting Modes
bg pressing this button. You con olso chonge
the temperoture displog from °Fto °Cond
view FAQs.

Power

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Usethis button to activate or deactivate
all heating sources on this product.

NOTE:The user interface will still function
when the power button is off.

Arrow Pads

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Usethe up, down, left and right arrows to
navigate through menus or to change the
water temperature.

Turning on the water heater.

The first time you press the power button and the
water heater is powered on, the screen will ask for

confirmation that the tank has been filled with
water. The tank must be full of water before the

heater isturned on to prevent damage.

The water heater warrantg does not cover damage
or failure resulting from operation with an emptg
or partiallg emptg tank. (Referto the Certificate of

Limited Warrantg for complete terms and

conditions.)

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If the tank has NOTbeen filled, vent and fill tank
with water before pressing the POWERbutton

again.

• Hake sure the drain valve is completelg closed.

• Open the shut-off valve in the cold water supplg
line.

• Open each hot water faucet slowlg to allow the
air to vent from the water heater and piping.

• A steadg flow of water from the hot water
faucet(s) indicates a full water heater.

After the tank has beenfilled with water, pressthe
POWERbutton again.

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Once the water heater has been powered on, the

main screen will be shown. The displag will show
the current water temperature setting and the
current operating mode for the water heater.

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_OR AWAY___

Ifthe displaggoesblank,pressang kegto reactivate

the displag.Togo back to the default (HOME)screen,

pressthe left arrow button until the default (HOME)
screenappears.

Tocomplg with safetg regulations, the controls are
factorg preset to 120°F and Hgbrid Mode.These are
the recommended settings for the water heater.

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About the water temperature setting. GEAppliances.com

Thetemperature of the water in the water heater
can be regulated by adjusting the temperature
setting up or down using arrow kegs on the control
panel.

Safety and energy conservation are factors
to be considered when selecting the water
temperature setting of the water heater. The lower
the temperature setting, the greater the savings

Mixing valves for reducing point-of-use water

temperature by mixing hot and cold water in

branch water lines are available. Contact a licensed
plumber or the local plumbing authority for further

information.

The chart below may be used as a guide in
determining the proper water temperature for your

home.

in energy and operating costs.
Tocomply with safety regulations, the water

temperature isfactory set at 120°Fwhere local
codes require. This is the recommended starting
point.

Water temperatures above 125°F can cause severe

DANGER: Thereisahotwaterscald

poten_al if thewater temperatureis set toohigh.
Householdswith small children,disabled,or elderly
persons may requirea120°Forlowerthermostat

setting toprevent contactwith HOTwater.

burns or death from scalding. Besure to read and
follow the warnings outlined in this manual and on

the label on the water heater. This label is located
on the water heater near the upper element access

panel.

Time/Temperature Relationship in Scalds

_i TimetOProduceo SeriousBurn )

120°F
125°F
130°F
135°F
140°F
145°F
150°F
155°F

TabEecourtesvofShrinersBurnh_stitute

More thon 5 minutes

1-1/2 to 2 minutes

About 30 seconds

About 10 seconds
Less than 5 seconds
Less than 3 seconds

About 1-1/2 seconds

About i second

To Adjust the Temperature

Press the UP or DOWN arrow on the control panel

key pad, You will be asked to press the ENTERkey

to acknowledge that increasing temperature
increases scald risk. Then the temperature can

be increased or decreased by pressing the UPor
DOWN arrows. After the desired temperature

setting has been achieved, you can pressENTER
to accept or simply walk away. (After 3 seconds of

no key presses,the control will accept the new
temperature setting.)

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MAND_ EN NT

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VA_._ATION _'_STO P_

DANGER: Thereisa HotWaterSCALD

Potentialif thewatertemperatureis set toohigh.

120°Fisthe recommended water temperature

setting, but it can be adjusted to any temperature

between 100°F and 140°F.

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Adjusting the water temperature and function mode.

This water heater defaults to the Hybrid operating

mode. The Hybrid mode isthe recommended

setting for this water heater, but can be changed

if desired. Available modes are listed below and

can be found under the ENERGYMENU button.

eHeat TM Mode

eHeatTM is the most energy-efficient mode for this
water heater. It takes heat from the surrounding

air to heat the water. The time it takes to heat
the water is longer in this mode, so it may NOT

be sufficient if you have a high-demand situation

such as a large household or company.

Standard Electric Mode

This mode uses only the upper and lower heating

resistance elements to heat the water. The time it

takes to heat the water is less in this mode, but it

isthe LEASTenergy-efficient mode.

Hybrid Mode--RECOMMENDED MODE

Hybrid mode combines the energy efficiency of
eHeatTM with the recovery speed and power of the
Standard Electric mode, with normal water usage.

High Demand

This mode is only necessary if your household

has a higher-than-average water usage or the unit

isundersized for the household water demands.

Inthis mode, the unit will use the electric heating
elements only when the water demand ishigher
than normal. When using the heating elements,
the water temperature will recover at a faster

rate but it will take more energy to heat it. Unlike
Standard Electric mode, it will use the heating
elements only when needed.

Toaccess any of these modes:
r_l Pressthe ENERGYMENU button and then

press ENTER.

_] Select "Operating Modes" on the menu list and

press ENTER.
Select the desired operating mode by using

the UPand DOWN arrow buttons and then
press ENTERagain.

Tocancel end return to the main energy menu:
Press the LEFTarrow button.

General navigation of energy menu:

F_For more information on each mode, while the

mode is highlighted, press the RIGHTarrow
button to read a description.

1-_1Use the UP and DOWN arrow buttons to scroll

through the description screens.

r_use the LEFT arrow button to return to the

"Operating Modes" menu list.

8

About the feature buttons on the user interface. 6EAppliances.com

Vacation Or Away

This feature is used when you will be away from

the home for an extended period of time and hot
water is not needed. In this mode, the unit will

drop the water temperature down to 50°F and will
use the most efficient heating mode to conserve
energy while the heater is sitting idle. The unit will
automatically resume heating one day before
your return, so that hot water will be available.

For example if you will be gone 1/4days, press the
VACATIONORAWAY button, press the UParrow
button until the display reads 1/4days (the default
is 7 days) and press ENTER.The unit will drop
the water temperature down to 50°F for 13 days.
At the end of the 13th day, it will automatically
return to the previous operating mode and heat
the water to the original temperature setting.

The green light will be illuminated when this

feature is on.
Stop Cold Air

The Hybrid and eHeatTM modes save energy by

using heat from the air to heat the water. The
warm air is pulled through the system by fans

and is then cooled. That cool air then moves out
the back of the heater.

You can temporarily stop the cold air and fan
noise coming from the unit by pressing the STOP

COLDAIR button.

To adjust the number of days this feature will be

on, simply use the UP and DOWN arrow buttons
and press ENTER(the default is 3 days). The unit
will automatically return to the previous operating
mode after the number of days selected has
passed.

This mode should only be used on a temporary

basis because you do NOTget the energy savings
while in this mode.

The green light will be illuminated when this

feature is on.

High Demand (on some models)
This mode is only necessary if your household

has a higher-than-average water usage or

the unit is undersized for the household water
demands.

Inthis mode, the unit will use the electric heating
elements only when the water demand ishigher
than normal. When using the heating elements,
the water temperature will recover at a faster rate

but it will take more energy to heat it.

Unlike Standard Electric mode, it will use the

heating elements only when needed.
The green light will be illuminated when this

feature ison.

Control Lock

The control pad can be locked out to prevent
accidental key presses.

Simply press and hold the LOCI( button for three
seconds. The display will show "controls are

locked" and the green light will be illuminated
when this feature has been activated. No other

key presses will be allowed when the controls are

locked.
To deactivate the lock, press and hold the LOCI(

pad for three seconds. The green light will fade
and the screen will go to the default display.

UsingtheEnerggMenu.

10

TheEnergyMenuisalsousedtochangethewaterheater

operatingmodes,to convertthetemperaturedisplayfrom
°Fto %,orto viewthe FAgs.Thereisalsoa Diagnostic

Menuthatisonlyaccessibleto a certifiedservice

technicianorplumberintheeventserviceisneeded.

Operating Modes
UsethisoptiontochangebetweeneHeatTM, Hybrid,

StandardElectricand HighDemandmodes(described
onpage8).

r_To access any of these modes, pressthe ENERGY

MENUbutton and then pressENTER.

_] elect Operating Modes on the menu listand

pressENTER.

r_ Selectthe desired operating mode by using the UPor

DOWNarrow buttons and then pressing ENTERagain.

[_-] Tocancel and return to the main EnergyMenu, press

the LEFTarrow button.

r_To getmoreinformationoneachmode,whilethe

modeishighlighted,presstheRIGHTarrowbutton

to reada description.

B-] Usethe UPorDOWNarrowbuttonstoscrollthrough

thedescriptionscreens.

E]Use the LEFTarrow buttonto returnto theOperating

Nodemenulist.

°Fand °CConversion

Thewatertemperaturedisplaywill defaultto °F.Toshow
thetemperaturesin °C,presstheENERGYMENUbutton;
thenpressENTER.Thesesettingswill beremembered

andreturnedfollowinga poweroutage.
r_-] PresstheDOWNarrowbuttontogoto "Choose°F

and°C"andpressENTER.

PressENTERto changefrom Fto C.Themainscreen

willthenbeshownwiththe temperaturein C.

r_To cancelandreturnto themainEnergyMenu,press

theLEFTarrowbutton.

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NOTE:Tochangebackto°F,repeatSteps1and 2.
Frequently Asked Questions

Thismenuitemanswersbasicquestionson coldair,
thefilter,operatingmodesandnoise.Allofthisinformation

iscoveredinthisUseandCaremanual.Ifthismanualis
misplaced,youcanrefertothissectionfor answers.

r_-]Toaccessthe FAQs,presstheENERGYMENUbutton

andthenpressENTER.

_] Pressthe DOWNarrowpadto goto "FAQs"andthen

pressENTER.

Therearefourquestioncategories:

ColdAir:

Q:Whyistherecoldair?
A:Hybrid,eHeatTM andHighDemandmodessaveenergy

by usingheatfromtheairto heatthewaterandthereby
coolingthesurroundingair.Thisgivessizableenergy

savings.

Q:Howto stopcoldair?
A:Pressthe STOPCOLDAIRbuttononthe keypad.This

reducesthe efficiencyofthe heater.Unitwill change
backto previousmodeafternumberof daysselected.

Filter:

Q:Whyisthereafilter?
A:In HybridandeHeatTM the unitmovesairthroughthe

system.Thefilterprotectsthe unitfromdirt.Acleanair

filter improvesefficiency.

Q:Howto cleanthefilter?
A:Leavepoweronandremovefilterfromtop of unit.Filter

canbewipedcleanorrinsedwithwarmwater.Adirty

filterwillreducewaterheaterefficienc!!

Modes:

Q:Whatis HighDemand?
A:HighDemandcanbeusedwhenhotwater usageis

higherthan normal.Theunitwillbelessefficientbutwill
heatwaterfasterinresponseto longwaterdraws.Forall
normaldraws,the unitwillstilluseefficienteHeatTM.

Q:Whatis StopColdAir?
A:Thismodewillstopcoldairtemporarilybutreduces

theefficiencyoftheheater.Theunitwillchangeback
to thepreviousmodeafterthenumberofdaysselected.

Q:Whatis VacationOrAway?
A:Ifyou aregonefor anextendedperiod,thismode

lowersthe watertemperaturetoreduceenergyused.
Unitwillswitchtothe previousmodeonedaybefore

youget back.

Q:Whatis eHeatZM?
A:eHeatTM isthemost-efficientmode.Ittakesheatfrom

theairto heatwater,therebycoolingthe surroundingair.

Slowerrecoverybutmost-efficientmode.

Q:Whatis Hybrid?
A:TheHybridmodecombinesbenefitsof eHeatTM withthe

speedandpowerof StandardElectric.Thisprovidesgreat
performancewithlessenergy.(Recommendedmode.)

Q:Whatis StandardElectric?
A:StandardElectricmodeusesonly theresistanceheaters

to heatthe water.Thisgivesfasterhotwaterrecovery
than Hybridmode,but usesmoreenergy.

Noise:

Q:Whyistheunitnoisy?
A:Inthemostenergy-efficientmodes,eHeat TM, Hybrid

andHighDemand,the methodusedto heatthewater
generatessomenoise.Someamountoffan noiseis

normal.

I_1 Usethe UPorDOWNarrowbuttonsto selectthe

categorythatpertainsto yourquestionand press

ENTER.

I_-I Tocancelandreturnto themainEnergyMenu,press

theLEFTarrowbutton.

I_1 Oncethecategoryisselected,usethe UPor DOWN

arrowbuttonstoselectthe desiredquestionsand
pressENTER.

B-] Usethe UPorDOWNarrowbuttonsto readthrough

theinformationscreens.

E] Whendone,pressthe LEFTarrowbuttonto return

totheFAQsmenu.

Demand Response. (onsome models) GEAppliances.com

The Hybrid Electric heat pump water heater is compatible
with the GEDemand Response (DR)module which can be

purchased separately. Contact your local utility or visit
www.GEApplionces.com/demond_response to

see if your area is using DRtechnology.

The followingdemand responsefeaturesareavailable

as part of a pilot test program with the local utility
company to help consumers reduce peak electricity

usage in the home.

INSTALLATION

The DR module is equipped with magnets in the base
of the module that will enable it to be attached to the

painted metal exterior of the heat pump water heater.
Details on how to connect the cables to the module are

in the instructions that come with the module.

DR connector

DR module

When the DRsignal is Medium, the control will operate in
eHeatTM Mode and the water temperature will remain at

the current user setting. The screen will display the
following (where xxx isthe current user temperature

setting):

When the DRsignal is High, the control will operate in
eHeatTM mode, with a water temperature setting of 110°F,

and the screen will display:

When the DRsignal is Critical, the control will operate in
eHeatTM mode, with a water temperature setting of IO0°F,

and the screen will display:

Once the cable from the DR module is plugged into the
water heater's connection, follow the power-up directions

included with the DRmodule. As soon as the DRmodule is
operating, the heat pump water heater is ready to receive

the DRsignals.
QUICK GUIDE

If your local utility company is utilizing DRtechnology,
the DRmodule will receive the signals sent from your

utility company. One of four signals will be sent: "Low"
represents that the lowest energy cost rate isavailable,

"Medium" and "High" signals represent increasing energy
cost steps, and the Critical signal represents "peak rate"

energy. A heat pump water heater equipped with a DR
module will automatically recognize what energy cost rate

is available and adjust its mode and temperature setting
to use lessenergy when rates are medium, high and

critical.
When the signal is low or when no DRmodule is

connected, the unit runs as normal. The following steps
show how the unit reacts to Medium, High and Critical

signal levels.

11

Careand cleaning of the water heater.

Routine Preventive Maintenance

^ DANGER: Beforemanuallyoperating

the relief valve, make certain no one will be
exposed to the danger of coming in contact with
the hot water released by the valve. The water
may be hot enough to create a scald hazard.

The water should be released into a suitable
drain to prevent injury or property damage.

NOTE: If the temperature and pressure-relief
valve on the hot water heater discharges
periodically, this mag be due to thermal expansion

in a closed water sgstem. Contact the water
supplier or gour plumbing contractor on how to

correct this. Do not plug the relief valve outlet.

Properlymaintained, your water heater will provide

years of dependable trouble-free service.

It issuggestedthat a routine preventivemaintenance

program be establishedand followed by the user.

Periodic Inspection:

It isfurther recommended that a periodic inspection
of the operating controls,heating elementsand

wiring should bemade by servicepersonnel
qualified in electric appliance repair.

Host electrical appliances,even when new,make
some sound when in operation. Ifthe hissing or

singing sound levelincreases excessively,the electric
heating element may requirecleaning. Contact a

qualified installer or plumber for inspection.

Temperature and Pressure-Relief Valve:

At least once a year, liftand release the lever handle
on the temperature and pressure-relief valve,located

on the back-right sideof the water heater,to make
certain the valve operates freely.Allow several

gallonsto flush through the discharge lineto an
open drain.

Flushing Tank:

A water heater's tank can act asa settling basin
for solids suspended in the water. It istherefore not

uncommon for hard water depositsto accumulate
in the bottom of the tank. Toclean the tank of these

deposits,open the drain valvelocated under the large
decorative cover near the bottom of the unit and

drain a few quarts of water from the water heater
every month.

12

Draining the Water Heater

CAUTION: Shut off powerto the

water heater before draining water.

DANGER:Beforemanuallyoperating

the relief valve, make certain no one will beexposed
to the hot water released by the valve. Thewater
drained from the tank mag be hot enough to
present a scald hazard and should be directed
to a suitable drain to prevent injury or damage.

Vacation and Extended Shutdown

If the water heater isto remain idle for an extended

period of time, the power and water to the
appliance should be turned off to conserve energy

and prevent a buildup of dangerous hydrogen
gas,

The water heater and piping should be drained if
they might be subjected to freezing temperatures.

Attach a garden hose to the drain valve located
at the bottom of the unit and direct that hose

to a drain. The decorative front cover must be
removed to access the valve.

In order to drain the water heater completely, turn
off the cold water supply. Open a hot water faucet

or lift the handle on the relief valve to admit air to
the tank.

Open the drain valve.

Decorative

cover

After a longshutdown period, the water heater's
operation and controls should be checked by

qualified service personnel. Hake certain the
water heater is completely filled again before

placing it in operation.

NOTE:Referto the Hydrogen Gas Caution
in the Operating Instructions.

:> Usea flat

to turn

crewdr ver

valve.

Cleaning the Filter

GEAppliances.com

Inthe Hybrid, eHeatTM and High Demand modes,

the heater moves air through the system and out
the back of the unit. The filter is in placeto protect

the evaporator from dirt and dust.
A clean air filter isimportant to get the highest

efficiency. Occasionally this filter will need to be
cleaned (minimum isonce a year).When the filter

requirescleaning, the Redlight above the Filter
button will be illuminated and an audible beep will

sound.Thescreen will display instructions that the
filter needs to be cleaned. When this screen is

displayed, you can pressthe RIGHTarrow button for
instructions on how to clean the filter.

NOTE:Ifthe filter gets too dirty, the unit will
automatically switch to Standard Electricmode

and energy savingswill be lost.

Leavethe power on and remove the filter from

the top of the unit. It is located in the top of the unit
behind the hot and cold inlet pipes.Grasp the plastic

handle and slidethe filter straight up until it clears
the cover.Once it has been removed, the filter can

be wiped cleanwith a damp rag or rinsedwith
warm water.

Oncethe filter has been cleaned, it can be replaced
by aligning it intothe slotin the top of the unit and

sliding itdown into place.When the handle isflush
with the top of the cover,it isseated.

When the clean filter has been reinstalled,press
the FILTERbutton and then pressENTER.

IMPORTANT:Filter must be cleaned when the alarm
isdisplayed.A dirty filter will make the system work

harder and resultin a reductionof efficiency and
possibledamage to the system. In order to get the

best energy efficiency available, make sure your filter
isclean.

Clearing the Condensation Drain Tubes

Thereare two drain hosesthat are attached to
the back of the heater. If both of theseget clogged,

water will spilldown the outside of the unit.
Theprimary drain isintended to carry allcondensate

away. If it isclogged or ifthe hoseis kinked,the
condensate will exitthe secondary drain tube

and onto the floor.This isintended as a notification
to the userthat the primary drain isclogged. Remove

the drain hose,clear any debris and reattach.

3" tube(overflow)

-- Main draintube

Directthemaindrain

tubeinto a drain

Periodicallyinspect the drain lines and clear any
debris that may have collected in the lines.

SeeInstallation Instructions for more information.

13

Installation

Water Heater

Instructions

The location chosen for the water heater must take
into consideration the following:

I

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 FirePrevention Association,

Batterymarch park, Quincy, HA 02169 as booklet

ANSI/NFPA70.

POWER REQUIREMENTS

Check the markings on the rating plate of the water
heater to be certain the power supply corresponds to

the water heater requirements.

Models GEHSODNSRSA and GEHSODXSRGA

LOCATION (CONT.)

I

WAR NING:ThiswaterheaterSHOULDNOT

beinstalledin a spacewhereliquidswhichgive offflammable
vaporsareto beusedor stored.Suchliquidsincludegasoline,

LPgas(butaneandpropane),paint or adhesivesandtheir

thinners, solvents or removers. Because of natural air

movementina roomorotherenclosedspace,flammable
vaporscan becarriedfrom wheretheirliquidsare beingused

or stored.Thearc drawnwithinthewaterheater'scontrol can
ignitethesevaporscausinganexplosionorfire whichmay

resultin severeburns or deathtothoseinrange, aswellas
property damage.

Routeto opendrain.
Lineshouldbeat least

3/4" IDandpitchedfor
properdrainage.

A--Diameter of water

heaterplus2" min.

B--Maximum 2"

LOCATION

Locate the water heater in a clean dry area as near as

practical to the area of greatest heated water demand.

Long uninsulated hot water lines can waste energy and

water.

NOTE:Because this unit draws in air from the room to

heat the water, the room must be at least 10' x 10' x 7'
(700 cubic feet) or larger. Ifthe room issmaller, there

must be a Iouvered door.

Placethe water heater in such a manner that the air

filter, cover and front panels can be removed to permit
inspection and servicing, such as removal of elements

or cleaning of the filter.
The water heater and water lines should be protected

from freezing temperatures and high-corrosive
atmospheres. Do not install the water heater in outdoor,

unprotected areas.

CAUTION: The water heater should not

be located in an area where leakage of the tank or
connections will result in damage to the area adjacent

to it or to lower floors of the structure. Where such areas
cannot be avoided,it is recommended that a suitable
catch pan, adequately drained, be installed under the

water heater.

NOTE:Auxiliarycatch pan MUSTconformto localcodes.
CatchPanKitsare availablefromthe store wherethe water

heaterwas purchased,abuilderstoreor any water heater
distributor.

Required clearances:
Theremust be a 7"clearancerecommended(airspace),with a

5-1/2" minimum clearancebetweenany object andthe front
and rear coversin the event serviceisneeded.

A 14"minimum clearanceis requiredto removethe
filter for cleaning.Thehot and coldwater plumbing

and electricalconnectionsmust notinterferewith
the removalofthe filter.

Condensation drain
Theunit has a condensatedrain;therefore a drain must be

availablein closeproximity to the unit. Thedrain must be no
higherthan 36"abovethe floor (laundrydrain isacceptable).
If no drain isavailable,then a commoncondensatepump with
a capacity no lessthan I gallon/hourmust bepurchasedfrom
a localbuilderand supply store and installed.

14

Installation Instructions

THERMAL EXPANSION

AWARNI NG:The water heater should not

be installed in a space where liquids which give off
flammable vapors are to be used or stored.

Determine if a check valve exists in the inlet water line.
It may have been installed in the cold water line as a

separate backflow 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 isreferred to as a "closed water system."

A cold water inlet line with no check valve or backflow
prevention device isreferred to as an "open" water

system.
Aswater isheated, it expands in volume and creates an

increase in the pressurewithin the water system. This
action is referred to as "thermal expansion." Inan "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 inthe 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 inthe cold water line between
the water heater and the check valve (refer to the

illustration on right). The expansion tank isdesigned 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

Referto the illustrationbelowfor suggestedtypical installation.

Theinstallationof unionsor flexiblecopperconnectors is

recommendedon the hot and coldwater connectionsso that
thewater heatermay beeasilydisconnectedforservicingif

necessary.TheHOTand COLDwater connectionsare clearly
marked and are 3/4" NPTonallmodels.

NOTE:Installa shut-off valvein the cold water linenear the
water heater.Thiswill enable easierservice or maintenance
of the unit later.

IMPORTANT: Do not apply heat to the HOT or COLD water
connections. If sweat connections are used, sweat tubing
to adapter before fitting the adapter to the cold water
connections on heater. Any heat applied to the hot or cold
water connection will permanently damage the dip tube.

TYPICAL INSTALLATION

Toelectrical Union

distributionpanel 6" minimum

Union

Heattrap

6" minimum

Hotwater
outlet tofixtures

Temperatureand
pressure-reliefvalve

(shownin different
locationfor clarity)

Reliefvalve
dischargeline to
suitable opendrain

j Heat trap

supply

Shut-offvalve

Thermalexpansion
tank(if required)

junction
box(useonly
copperconductors)

--Jacket accesspanel

panel

---i- Auxiliary

:_ catchpan 2"

_._J__ maximum

Drainvalve

CONDENSATION DRAIN TUBES

Thisunit hasacondensationtray. Thewater collected inthe

tray drains out ofthe tubecoming off the back of the unit.

Two flexiblehosesare includedwith thisunit. Itis important

that both of these hosesare attachedto the two drainports
coming off the back ofthe unit.Attach one end ofthe longer
6' hoseto thelower drainporton the back of the unit,

underneaththe rearcover.Directthe
other endto a drain in thefloor or no s" hose

higherthan 3'above thefloor.Ifsuch
drain isunavailable,a condensate

drain pump (notprovided)must be
purchasedand installed.Attachthe 6' hose
shorter3" hoseto thetop drain port.

15

Installation Instructions

A new combination temperature and pressure-reliefvalve,
complging with the Standardfor ReliefValvesand

Automatic GasShut-Off Devicesfor Hot Water Supplg
Sgstems,ANSIZ21.22,issupplied and must remain installed

in the opening provided and marked for the purpose on the
water heater.No valve of ang tgpe should be installed

between the reliefvalve and the tank. Localcodes shall
govern the installation of relief valves.

RELIEF VALVE

A WARNING:Thepressurerating oftherelief

valve must not exceed 150PSI,the meximum working
pressure of the weter heeter es merked on the rating

plete.
TheBTUH rating of the reliefvalve must not belessthan the

input rating of the water heater as indicated on the rating
label located onthe front of the heater (1watt=3.412 BTUH).

Connectthe outlet of the reliefvalve to a suitable open drain
sothat the discharge water cannot contact liveelectrical

parts or personsand to eliminate potential water damage.

Pipingusedshould beof a tgpe approved for hot water

distribution. Thedischarge linemust be no smaller than the
outlet of the valve and must pitch downward from the valve

to allow complete drainage (bg gravitg) of the reliefvalve
and discharge line.Theend of the discharge lineshould not

be threaded or concealed and should be protected from
freezing.No valve of ang tgpe, restriction or reducer

coupling should be installed in the discharge line.

kCAUTION:

To reduce the risk of excessive pressures and
temperatures in this water heater, install temperature

and pressure protective equipment required bg local
codes and no less than a combination temperature and

pressure relief valve certified bg a nationallg recognized
testing laboratorg that maintains periodic inspection of

production of listed equipment or materials, as meeting
the requirements for ReliefValves and Automatic Gas

Shutoff Devices for Hot Water Supplg Sgstems, ANSI
Z21.22.This valve must be marked with a maximum set

pressure not to exceed the marked maximum working
pressure of the water heater. Install the valve into an

opening provided and marked for this purpose in the
water heater, and orient it or provide tubing so that ang

discharge from the valve exits onlg within 6 inches above,
or at ang distance below, the structural floor, and does

not contact ang live electrical part. The discharge
opening must not be blocked or reduced in size under

ang circumstances.

TO FILL THE WATER HEATER

A WA RNING:Thetankmustbefullofwater

beforeheeter isturned on.The water heeter werrentg
doesnot coverdamage or failure resultingfrom

operationwith an emptg or partiallg emptg tank.

Make certain the drain valve is completelg closed,
Open the shut-off valve in the cold water supplg line.

Open each hot water faucet slowlg to allow the air to
vent from the water heater and piping.

A steadg flow of water from the hot water faucet(s)
indicates a full water heater.

ELECTRICAL CONNECTIONS

Aseparate branch circuitwith copper conductors,overcurrent
protectivedeviceand suitabledisconnectingmeans mustbe

providedbg a qualifiedelectrician.
Allwiringmust conform to local codesor latesteditionof

National ElectricalCodeANSI/NFPA70.

Thewater heateriscompletelgwiredto thejunction boxat the

top ofthe water heater.An openingfor 1/2"or 3/4"electrical
fittingis providedforfieldwiring connections.

Thevoltagerequirementsand wattage loadforthe water

heaterare specifiedonthe ratinglabelon thefront ofthe
water heater.

The branch circuit wiring should include either:

1. Metallic conduit or metallic sheathed cable approved
for use as a grounding conductor and installed with

fittings approved for the purpose.

2. Nonmetallic 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. ,]unctionboxcover

Groundscrew

Wire connectors

L1

Waterheaterjunction box

^_ WARNING:Proper ground connection is

essential. The presence of water in the piping and water
heater does not provide sufficientconduction for a

ground. Nonmetallic piping, dielectric unions, flexible
connectors, etc., can cause the water heater to be

electricallg isolated.

16

Installation Instructions

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.

If local codes require external application of insulation
blanket kits, the manufacturer's instructions included
with the kit must be carefully followed.

Application of any external insulation, blankets or
water pipe insulation to this water heater will require
careful attention to the following:

• Do not cover the temperature and pressure-relief
valve,

• Do not cover access panels to the heating elements.

• Do not cover the electrical junction box of the
water heater.

• Do not cover the operating or warning labels attached
to the water heater or attempt to relocate them on

the exterior of the insulation blanket.

• Do not block the air inlet outlets below and in the top

covers.

NOTE:This guide recommends minimum branch
circuit sizing based on the National Electric Code.
Refer to wiring diagrams in this manual for field
wiring connections.

BRANCH CIRCUIT SIZING GUIDE

I Total Water Recommended _r-current Protection

Heater Wattage (fuse or c rcu t breaker amperage rat ng)

208V 240V 277V 480V

3,000

4,000
4,500

5,000
5,500

6,000

8,000

9,000
10,000
11,000
12,000

Heater Wattage

I Total Water

3,000

4,000

4,500

5,000

5,500

6,000

8,000

9,000
10,000
11,000
12,000

20 20 15 15
25 25 20 15
30 25 25 15
30 30 25 15
35 30 25 15
40 35 30 20
50 45 40 25

- 50 45 25

- 50 30

- 50 30

- - 35

icopper wire Size AWG B2ed

on N.E.C, Tabe31_16(75 C,)

208V 240V 277V 480V

12 12 14 14
10 10 12 14
10 10 10 14
10 10 10 14

8 10 10 14
8 8 10 12

8 8 8 10

8 8 10

- 8 10

- 8 10

-- -- 8

•Typicalvertical

p_p_ngarrangement

Typicalhorizontalpiping

arrangement

17

Installation Instructions

INSTALLATION CHECKLIST

[] 1. Tank location:

- Is room size lessthan 10' x 10' x 7' (700 cu.ft.)? If yes, Iouvered door or similar ventilation is needed.

- Back of unit away from wall by 7 inches.

- Front of unit isfree and clear.

- Is the water heater level? If no, add shims under the base of the unit.

[] 2. Plumbing connections:

- Does not prevent air filter removal.

- No leaks after filling the tank with water, either when water is flowing or not.

[] 3. Condensate lines are in place:

1)Short tube on upper drain nozzle.

2) Longer tube on lower drain nozzle and directed into o floor drain or a condensate pump.
[] 4. Temperature and pressure-relief valve isworking and drain line completed per local code.
[] 5. Electrical connection does not prevent air filter removal.
[] 6. Verify control panel displays 120°F Hybrid mode.
[] 7. Front cover is in place.

18

Beforeyou call for service... GEAppliances.com

Troubleshooting Tips
Save time and moneg! Review the chart below first and gou
may not need to call for service.

b_ Possible Causes

Water heater is noisg Fans are used to move air

through the sgstem. The fan
noise volume will varg as the

water is heated.

Water heater is Room is not vented • Ifthe room issmaller than 10' x 10' x 7',then it must have
making the room properlg or is too small, a Iouvered door or other means to allow air exchange

too cold with surrounding rooms.

Water dripping down Condensate drain hoses are • Two drain hoses are included with your water heater.
the outside of'the not connected. Connect the longer 6' hose to the lower condensate drain
heater port. Connect the short 3" hose to the upper condensate

Condensate drain hoses are • Remove each drain hose and clear any debris from the
kinked or clogged, line. You can use a small wire like a hanger or a small

Hot/Cold water connections • Tighten the inlet and outlet pipe connections.
are not tightened.

Not enough or no hot Water usage mag have • Wait for the water heater to recover after an abnormal
water exceeded the capacitg demand.

of the water heater.

What To Do

• Some amount of fan noise is normal (similar to the blower
on a central heating and cooling system). If you hear an

abnormal noise like a knocking or the noise level seems
unusuallu loud, then contact service.

• Ifnoise level has been increasing over the last weeks or
months, the filter may be getting dirty, thus making the
fans work harder. Check to see if filter needs to be cleaned.

(Seepage 13 for instructions.)

drain port.

screwdriver to clear out any debris in the drain port on
the unit.

A fuse is blown or a circuit • Replace fuse or reset circuit breaker.
breaker tripped.

Electric supplg mag be off. • Hake sure electric supply to water heater and disconnect

switch, if used, ore in the ON position.

Water temperature mag • See the Water temperature setting section.
be set too low.

Leaking or open hot water • Hake sure all faucets ore closed.
faucets.

Electric service to gour home • Contact the local electric utility.
mag be interrupted.

Improper wiring. • See the Installation Instructions section.
Manual reset limit (TCO). • See the Water temperature setting section.

Cold water inlet temperature • This is normal. The colder inlet water takes longer to heat.
mag be colder during the

winter months.

Water is too hot Water temperature isset • See the Water temperature setting section.

too high.

-4,CAUTION: Foryoursafety,oONOTattemptrepairofelectricalwiring, controls,

heating elements or other safety devices. Refer repairs to qualified service personnel.
Electronic control hasfailed. • Call for service.

Rumbling noise Water conditions in gour • Remove and clean the heating elements.

home caused a buildup of
scale or mineral deposits
on the heating elements.

19

Before you call for service...

_ir_i:i i::i:_:i_ii!i Possible causes

Relief valve producing
popping noise

or draining
The heater is beeping

and the screen sags
"Attention! Tank not

filled!"

The filter light is on.

The heater is beepin:

and the screen sags

Pressure buildup caused
bg thermal expansion

to a closed sgstem.
The water heater has not •

been filled with water before
powering up. Powering up the

heater without water will
damage the electric heaters.

The water heater warrantg

does not cover damage or

failure resulting from operation

with an emptg or partially
emptg tank.

The filter requires cleaning. •
A clean filter is necessary for

effective operation.

There is an issue with the •
heat pump system.

"Heat Pump Failure"

The heater is beepinc There isan issue with the
and the screen sags water heater sgstem.

"Water Heater Failure"

Theheater is beeping

and the screen sags
"Sgstem Failure"

Unit is not making
noise

There isan issuewith the
water heater that requires

immediate attention.

If unit isusing resistance
elements, it will not make

noise.

What To Do

• Thisis an unacceptable condition and must be corrected.
Contact the water supplier or plumbing contractor on how

to correct this. Do not plug the relief valve outlet.
Fillthe tank completely with water. PressENTERto stop

the alarm and then press POWERwhen the tank has been
filled.

Follow the instructions on how to remove and clean the
filter on page 13.

The unit will automaticallu switch to another available
mode to ensure you continue to have hot water. Contact

service immediately and give them the codes listed on the
display screen.

The unit will automatically switch to another available
mode to ensure you continue to have hot water. Contact

service immediately and give them the codes listed on the
display screen.

• The heater will need to turn off. Contact service immediately.

Check mode of unit.

20

Notes.

GEAppliances.com

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