GE GeoSpring GEH50DNSRSA, GeoSpring GEH50DXSRGA Owner's Manual & Installation Instructions

GEAppliances.com

Safety Information .........................2, 3

Operating Instructions .............. 4–11

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

Installation Instructions .........14–18

Troubleshooting Tips ...............19, 20

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

Owner’s Manual &

Installation Instructions

GEH50DNSRSA
GEH50DXSRGA

Chauffe-eau

résidentiel hybride électrique

Manuel d’utilisation

et d’installation

La section française commence à la page 23

Calentadores

de agua

residenciales eléctricos híbridos

La sección en español empieza en la página 51

Write the model and serial
numbers here:

GeoSpring Hybrid Electric Residential

Model # ________________

Serial # _________________

Water Heaters

You can  nd them on the rating label
on the front side of your water heater.

Manual del propietario

e instalación

49-50254-2 06-10 GE

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION.
READ ALL INSTRUCTIONS BEFORE USING.

WARNING!

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

Be sure to 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. Failure to follow these warnings could result in
serious bodily injury or death. Should you have problems understanding the instructions in this manual, or have any questions,
STOP and get help from a quali ed service technician or the local electric utility.

WATER TEMPERATURE ADJUSTMENT

Safety and energy conservation are factors to be considered when selecting the water temperature setting via the water
heater’s user interface. Water temperatures above 125°F can cause severe burns or death from scalding. Be sure to read
and follow the warnings outlined on the label pictured below. This label is also located on the water heater near the top of the
tank.

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.

Time/Temperature Relationship in Scalds

Temperature Time to Produce a Serious Burn

120°F (49°C) More than 5 minutes
125°F (52°C) 1-1/2 to 2 minutes
130°F (54°C) About 30 seconds
135°F (57°C) About 10 seconds
140°F (60°C) Less than 5 seconds
145°F (63°C) Less than 3 seconds
150°F (66°C) About 1-1/2 seconds
155°F (68°C) About 1 second

Table courtesy of Shriners Burn Institute

Water temperature over 125°F
(52°C) 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 160°F (71°C) 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.

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

NOTE: Households with small children, disabled or elderly
persons may require a 120°F (49°C) or lower thermostat
setting to prevent contact with “HOT” water.

DANGER: There is a Hot Water SCALD Potential

if the control water temperature is set too high.

2

SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS

GEAppliances.com

WARNING: Hydrogen gas can be produced in a hot water system served by this water heater that has

not been used for a long period of time (generally two weeks or more). HYDROGEN GAS IS EXTREMELY FLAMMABLE!! To
dissipate such gas and to reduce risk of injury, it is recommended that the hot water faucet be opened for several minutes at
the kitchen sink before using any electrical appliance connected to the hot water system. If hydrogen is present, there will be an
unusual sound such as air escaping through the pipe as the water begins to flow. Do not smoke or use an open flame near the
faucet at the time it is open.

WARNING!

Risk of Fire - DO NOT store or use gasoline or other flammable vapors and liquids in the vicinity of this or any other
appliance. Keep rags and other combustibles away.

FOR INSTALLATIONS

IN THE STATE OF 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 (236.4 L) capacity, a brochure with generic
earthquake bracing instructions can be obtained from: Office of the State Architect, 400 P Street, Sacramento, CA 95814
or you may call 916.324.5315 or ask a water heater dealer.

However, applicable local codes shall govern installation. For residential water heaters of a capacity greater than
52 gallons (236.4 L) 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.

READ AND FOLLOW THIS SAFETY INFORMATION CAREFULLY.

SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS

3

Operating the water heater.

Safety Precautions

WARNING:

If the water heater has been
subjected to flood, fire, or physical
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. Do turn off power to water heater if

it has been subjected to overheating,
fire, flood or physical damage.

B. Do Not turn on water heater unless

it is filled with water.

C. Do Not turn on water heater if cold

water supply shut-off valve is closed.

Safety Controls

The water heater is equipped with two
temperature-limiting controls (TCOs) that
are located above the heating element in
contact with the tank surface. If for any
reason the water temperature becomes
excessively high, the temperature-limiting
control (TCO) breaks the power circuit to
the heating element. Once the control
opens, it must be reset manually. Resetting
of the temperature limiting controls should
be done by a qualified service technician.

CAUTION: The cause

of the high temperature condition must
be investigated by a qualified service
technician and corrective action must
be taken before placing the water heater
in service again.

NOTE: Flammable vapors may be drawn
by air currents from surrounding areas
to the water heater.

D. If there is any difficulty in understanding

or following the Operating Instructions
or the Care and 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 panel(s)

and insulation.

The thermostat protective cover

should not be removed.

3. Press the red RESET button.

4. Replace the insulation and jacket

access panel(s) before turning on
the power to the water heater.

4

About the controls. GEAppliances.com

Controls

Display

Lock

Press and hold this button for 3 seconds to
lock or unlock the water heater touch button
controls. Green light is illuminated when the
controls are locked.

Filter

The filter is dirty and requires cleaning when
the Red light is illuminated. Filter is located on
top of the water heater. Press button to reset
filter alarm.

High Demand

Use this button when extra hot water is
needed. This feature increases the speed that
the water is heated using more electricity.
Green light is illuminated when feature is on.

Vacation Or Away

Use this button during times of no water
usage, such as vacation for an extended
period of time. Feature will reduce the energy
used during the absence. Green light is
illuminated when feature is on.

Stop Cold Air

Use this button to temporarily stop cold air
coming from the unit or to stop fan noise.
However, the unit will use more electricity,
so this mode should generally be used
only for short periods of time. Green light is
illuminated when feature is on.

Energy Menu

Change the water heater Operating Modes by
pressing this button. You can also change the
temperature display from ºF to ºC and
view FAQs.

Power

Use this 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

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

5

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 is turned on to prevent damage.

The water heater warranty does not cover damage
or failure resulting from operation with an empty
or partially empty tank. (Refer to the Certificate
of Limited Warranty for complete terms and
conditions.)

If the tank has NOT been filled, vent and fill tank
with water before pressing the POWER button
again.

• Make sure 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.

After the tank has been filled with water, press the
POWER button again.

Once the water heater has been powered on, the
main screen will be shown. The display will show
the current water temperature setting and the
current operating mode for the water heater.

If the display goes blank, press any key to reactivate
the display. To go back to the default (HOME) screen,
press the left arrow button until the default (HOME)
screen appears.

To comply with safety regulations, the controls are
factory preset to 120°F (49°C) and Hybrid Mode.
These are the recommended settings for the water
heater.

6

About the water temperature setting. GEAppliances.com

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

Safety, energy conservation and hot water capacity
are factors to be considered when selecting the
water temperature setting of the water heater.
To comply with safety regulations, the water
temperature setpoint is factory set at 120°F (49°C).
This is the recommended starting point. However,
the GE Hybrid Water heater’s energy savings claims
are based on a 135°F (57°C) temperature setting
because, according to US Dept of Energy, the
average residential water heater in the US is set
at 135°F (57°C). Therefore, the water temperature
setpoint can be raised from the factory setting of
120°F to 135°F (49°C to 57°C) without sacrificing
the claimed energy savings. As always, if a lower
temperature setting than 135°F (57°C) is used,
slightly greater savings in energy and operating
costs may be achieved.

Finally, if more hot water capacity is desired,
increasing the temperature from 120°F to 135°F
(49°C to 57°C) will enable the same tank of hot
water to last about 25% longer because more cold
water is mixed in at the shower or faucet.

Adjust the water temperature setpoint as needed,
always being aware of scald risk.

Water temperatures above 125°F (52°C) can cause
severe burns or death from scalding. Be sure
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.

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.

DANGER: There is a hot water scald

potential if the water temperature is set too high.
Households with small children, disabled, or elderly
persons may require a 120°F (49°C) or lower
thermostat setting to prevent contact with HOT water.

Time/Temperature Relationship in Scalds

Temperature Time to Produce a Serious Burn

120°F (49°C) More than 5 minutes
125°F (52°C) 1-1/2 to 2 minutes
130°F (54°C) About 30 seconds
135°F (57°C) About 10 seconds
140°F (60°C) Less than 5 seconds
145°F (63°C) Less than 3 seconds
150°F (66°C) About 1-1/2 seconds
155°F (68°C) About 1 second

Table courtesy of Shriners Burn Institute

To Adjust the Temperature

Press the UP or DOWN arrow on the control panel
key pad. You will be asked to press the ENTER
key to acknowledge that increasing temperature
increases scald risk. Then the temperature can
be increased or decreased by pressing the UP
or DOWN arrows. After the desired temperature
setting has been achieved, you can press ENTER
to accept or simply walk away. (After 3 seconds
of no key presses, the control will accept the new
temperature setting.)

DANGER: There is a Hot Water SCALD

Potential if the water temperature is set too high.
120°F (49°C) is the recommended starting point for
water temperature setting, but it can be adjusted
to any temperature between 100°F and 140°F
(38°C and 60°C).

7

Operational Modes.

This water heater defaults to the Hybrid operating
mode. The Hybrid mode is the recommended
setting for this water heater, but can be changed
if desired. Available modes are listed below and
can be found under the ENERGY MENU button.

eHeat™ Mode

eHeat™ is the most energy-ef cient 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 suf cient 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
is the LEAST energy-ef cient mode.

Hybrid ModeRECOMMENDED MODE

Hybrid mode combines the energy ef ciency of
eHeat™ 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
is undersized for the household water demands.
In this mode, the unit will use the electric heating
elements only when the water demand is higher
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.

To access any of these modes:

Press the ENERGY MENU button and then

1

press ENTER.

Select “Operating Modes” on the menu list and

2

press ENTER.

Select the desired operating mode by using

3

the UP and DOWN arrow buttons and then
press ENTER again.

To cancel and return to the main energy menu:
Press the LEFT arrow button.

General navigation of energy menu:

For more information on each mode, while the

1

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

Use the UP and DOWN arrow buttons to scroll

2

through the description screens.

Use the LEFT arrow button to return to the

3

“Operating Modes” menu list.

8

About the feature buttons on the user interface. GEAppliances.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 50ºF (10°C) and will
use the most ef cient 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 14 days, press the
VACATION OR AWAY button, press the UP arrow
button until the display reads 14 days (the default
is 7 days) and press ENTER. The unit will drop
the water temperature down to 50ºF (10°C)
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 eHeat™ 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
COLD AIR 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 NOT get 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.

In this mode, the unit will use the electric heating
elements only when the water demand is higher
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 is on.

Control Lock

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

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

9

Using the Energy Menu.

10

The Energy Menu is also used to change the water heater
operating modes, to convert the temperature display from
ºF to ºC, or to view the FAQs. There is also a Diagnostic
Menu that is only accessible to a certi ed service
technician or plumber in the event service is needed.

Operating Modes

Use this option to change between eHeat™, Hybrid,
Standard Electric and High Demand modes (described
on page 8).

To access any of these modes, press the ENERGY

1

MENU button and then press ENTER.

Select Operating Modes on the menu list and

2

press ENTER.

Select the desired operating mode by using the UP or

3

DOWN arrow buttons and then pressing ENTER again.

To cancel and return to the main Energy Menu, press

4

the LEFT arrow button.

To get more information on each mode, while the

5

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

Use the UP or DOWN arrow buttons to scroll through

6

the description screens.

Use the LEFT arrow button to return to the Operating

7

Mode menu list.

ºF and ºC Conversion

The water temperature display will default to ºF. To show
the temperatures in ºC, press the ENERGY MENU button;
then press ENTER. These settings will be remembered
and returned following a power outage.

Press the DOWN arrow button to go to “Choose ºF

1

and ºC” and press ENTER.

Press ENTER to change from ºF to ºC. The main screen

2

will then be shown with the temperature in ºC.

To cancel and return to the main Energy Menu, press

3

the LEFT arrow button.

NOTE: To change back to ºF, repeat Steps 1 and 2.

Frequently Asked Questions

This menu item answers basic questions on cold air,
the  lter, operating modes and noise. All of this information
is covered in this Use and Care manual. If this manual is
misplaced, you can refer to this section for answers.

To access the FAQs, press the ENERGY MENU button

1

and then press ENTER.

Press the DOWN arrow pad to go to “FAQs” and then

2

press ENTER.

There are four question categories:

Cold Air:

Q: Why is there cold air?
A: Hybrid, eHeat™ and High Demand modes save energy

by using heat from the air to heat the water and thereby
cooling the surrounding air. This gives sizable energy
savings.

Q: How to stop cold air?
A: Press the STOP COLD AIR button on the keypad. This

reduces the ef ciency of the heater. Unit will change
back to previous mode after number of days selected.

Filter:

Q: Why is there a  lter?
A: In Hybrid and eHeat™ the unit moves air through the

system. The  lter protects the unit from dirt. A clean air
 lter improves ef ciency.

Q: How to clean the  lter?
A: Leave power on and remove  lter from top of unit. Filter

can be wiped clean or rinsed with warm water. A dirty
 lter will reduce water heater ef ciency!

Modes:

Q: What is High Demand?
A: High Demand can be used when hot water usage is

higher than normal. The unit will be less ef cient but will
heat water faster in response to long water draws. For
all normal draws, the unit will still use ef cient eHeat™.

Q: What is Stop Cold Air?
A: This mode will stop cold air temporarily but reduces

the ef ciency of the heater. The unit will change back
to the previous mode after the number of days selected.

Q: What is Vacation Or Away?
A: If you are gone for an extended period, this mode

lowers the water temperature to reduce energy used.
Unit will switch to the previous mode one day before
you get back.

Q: What is eHeat™?
A: eHeat™ is the most-ef cient mode. It takes heat from

the air to heat water, thereby cooling the surrounding
air. Slower recovery but most-ef cient mode.

Q: What is Hybrid?
A: The Hybrid mode combines bene ts of eHeat™ with the

speed and power of Standard Electric. This provides great
performance with less energy. (Recommended mode.)

Q: What is Standard Electric?
A: Standard Electric mode uses only the resistance heaters

to heat the water. This gives faster hot water recovery
than Hybrid mode, but uses more energy.

Noise:

Q: Why is the unit noisy?
A: In the most energy-ef cient modes, eHeat™, Hybrid

and High Demand, the method used to heat the water
generates some noise. Some amount of fan noise is
normal.

Use the UP or DOWN arrow buttons to select the

3

category that pertains to your question and press
ENTER.

To cancel and return to the main Energy Menu, press

4

the LEFT arrow button.

Once the category is selected, use the UP or DOWN

5

arrow buttons to select the desired questions and
press ENTER.

Use the UP or DOWN arrow buttons to read through

6

the information screens.

When done, press the LEFT arrow button to return

7

to the FAQs menu.

Smart Appliance. (on some models) GEAppliances.com

The Hybrid Electric heat pump water heater is compatible
with the GE Smart Appliance module (SAM) which can
be purchased separately. Contact your local utility or visit
www.GEAppliances.com/Smart-Appliance to see if your
area is using SAM technology.

The following demand response features are available
as part of a pilot test program with the local utility
company to help consumers reduce peak electricity
usage in the home.

INSTALLATION

The SAM 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.

SAM connector

SAM module

When the SAM signal is Medium, the control will operate
in eHeat™ Mode and the water temperature will remain
at the current user setting. The screen will display the
following (where xxx is the current user temperature
setting):

When the SAM signal is High, the control will operate in
eHeat™ mode, with a water temperature setting of 110°F
(43°C), and the screen will display:

When the SAM signal is Critical, the control will operate in
eHeat™ mode, with a water temperature setting of 100°F
(38°C), and the screen will display:

Once the cable from the SAM module is plugged into the
water heater’s connection, follow the power-up directions
included with the SAM module. As soon as the SAM
module is operating, the heat pump water heater is ready
to receive the SAM signals.

QUICK GUIDE

If your local utility company is utilizing SAM technology,
the SAM module will receive the signals sent from your
utility company. One of four signals will be sent: “Low”
represents that the lowest energy cost rate is available,
“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 SAM
module will automatically recognize what energy cost
rate is available and adjust its mode and temperature
setting to use less energy when rates are medium, high
and critical. When the heat pump water heater responds
to these signals, it will display the letters “EP” in the screen,
along with other information, indicating that energy
pricing periods are in effect.

When the signal is low or when no SAM module is
connected, the unit runs as normal. The following steps
show how the unit reacts to Medium, High and Critical
signal levels.

Notice: Appliance SAM connection carries voltage not
compatible to computers or accessories. Do NOT plug
laptops modems, routers, etc into the Appliance RJ45
SAM connector. Use only with designated GE Appliance
Accessories. Connection to computers and accessories
may result in product damage.

11

Care and cleaning of the water heater.

Routine Preventive Maintenance

DANGER: Before manually operating

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 may be due to thermal expansion
in a closed water system. Contact the water
supplier or your plumbing contractor on how to
correct this. Do not plug the relief valve outlet.

Properly maintained, your water heater will provide
years of dependable trouble-free service.

It is suggested that a routine preventive maintenance
program be established and followed by the user.

Temperature and Pressure-Relief Valve:

At least once a year, lift and release the lever handle
on the temperature and pressure-relief valve, located
on the back-right side of the water heater, to make
certain the valve operates freely. Allow several
gallons to flush through the discharge line to an
open drain.

Periodic Inspection:

It is further recommended that a periodic inspection
of the operating controls, heating elements and
wiring should be made by service personnel
qualified in electric appliance repair.

Most electrical appliances, even when new, make
some sound when in operation. If the hissing or
singing sound level increases excessively, the electric
heating element may require cleaning. Contact a
qualified installer or plumber for inspection.

Flushing Tank:

A water heater’s tank can act as a settling basin
for solids suspended in the water. It is therefore not
uncommon for hard water deposits to accumulate
in the bottom of the tank. To clean the tank of these
deposits, open the drain valve located under the
large decorative cover near the bottom of the unit
and drain a few quarts of water from the water
heater every month. This should be done with the
cold water supply open such that water removed
through drain valve is replaced, and water supply
flow helps to remove sediment.

Draining the Water Heater

CAUTION: Shut off power to the

water heater before draining water.

DANGER: Before manually operating

the relief valve, make certain no one will be
exposed to the hot water released by the valve. The
water drained from the tank may 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 is to 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.

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.

Use a flat

screwdriver

to turn

valve.

After a long shutdown period, the water heater’s
operation and controls should be checked by
qualified service personnel. Make certain the
water heater is completely filled again before
placing it in operation.

The water heater and piping should be drained if

12

they might be subjected to freezing temperatures.

NOTE: Refer to the Hydrogen Gas Caution
in the Operating Instructions.

GEAppliances.com

Cleaning the Filter

In the Hybrid, eHeat™ and High Demand modes,
the heater moves air through the system and out
the back of the unit. The filter is in place to protect
the evaporator from dirt and dust.

A clean air filter is important to get the highest
efficiency. Occasionally this filter will need to be
cleaned (minimum is once a year). When the filter
requires cleaning, the Red light above the Filter
button will be illuminated and an audible beep
will sound. The screen will display instructions that
the filter needs to be cleaned. When this screen is
displayed, you can press the RIGHT arrow button for
instructions on how to clean the filter.

NOTE: If the filter gets too dirty, the unit will
automatically switch to Standard Electric mode
and energy savings will be lost.

Leave the 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 slide the filter straight up until it clears
the cover. Once it has been removed, the filter can
be wiped clean with a damp rag or rinsed with
warm water.

Clearing the Condensation Drain Tubes

Once the filter has been cleaned, it can be replaced
by aligning it into the slot in the top of the unit and
sliding it down into place. When the handle is flush
with the top of the cover, it is seated.

When the clean filter has been reinstalled, press
the FILTER button and then press ENTER.

IMPORTANT: Filter must be cleaned when the alarm
is displayed. A dirty filter will make the system work
harder and result in a reduction of efficiency and
possible damage to the system. In order to get the
best energy efficiency available, make sure your filter
is clean.

Filter

Rear of unit

There are two drain hoses that are attached to
the back of the heater. If both of these get clogged,
water will spill down the outside of the unit.

The primary drain is intended to carry all condensate
away. If it is clogged or if the hose is kinked, the
condensate will exit the secondary drain tube
and onto the floor. This is intended as a notification
to the user that the primary drain is clogged. Remove
the drain hose, clear any debris and reattach.

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

See Installation Instructions for more information.

Anode Rod

The anode rod should be removed from the water
heater’s tank and inspected annually, and replaced
when more than 6” (15.2 cm) of core wire is exposed
at either end of the rod.

Due to shock hazard and to prevent accidental water
leaks, this inspection should be done by a qualified
servicer or plumber, and requires that the cold water
supply is turned off before removing the anode rod.

3” (7.6 cm) tube (overflow)

Main drain tube

Direct the main drain

tube into a drain

NOTICE: Do not remove the anode rod from the
water heater’s tank except for inspection and/
or replacement, as operation with the anode rod
removed will shorten the life of the glass-lined tank
and will exclude warranty coverage.

13

Installation

Models GEH50DNSRSA and GEH50DXSRGA

Instructions

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 Prevention Association,
Batterymarch park, Quincy, MA 02169 as booklet ANSI/
NFPA 70.

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.

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)/3m x 3m x 2.1m (19.8 m3) or larger. If
the room is smaller, there must be a louvered door. If

a louvered door is required, the total louver flow area
should be 240 sq. inches (0.15 m
good air-exchange with the adjacent room. The ideal
louver configuration is full-door type, but two louvered
areas, one positioned in upper and lower section of door
is acceptable.

Place the 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.

2

) or greater to ensure

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.

LOCATION (CONT.)

WATER HEATER SIZING INFORMATION - READ
BEFORE INSTALLING:

For existing home replacements:

• Replacing an existing tank water heater?

current water heater has provided adequate hot water,
and no other plumbing changes and/or renovations that
would require additional hot water demand are in process or
planned, then:

• The GeoSpring Hybrid water heater can replace an
equivalent size or smaller standard electric water heater.
(e.g. if you have a 40 or 50 gallon (151.4 or 189.3 L)
standard electric water heater today, a 50 gallon (189.3 L)
GeoSpring will be a good replacement).

• If switching from gas to electric, the GeoSpring Hybrid water
heater may replace the next size smaller gas tank water
heater. (i.e. 50 gallon/189.3 L GeoSpring can replace a
40 gallon/151.4 L or smaller gas water heater).

For new construction installation:

Residental Water Heater Sizing Guide

Family

Size

3 to 4 High 80 (302.8 L) 50-75 (189.3-283.9 L)

2 to 3 High 50 (189.3 L) 40-50 (151.4-189.3 L)

1 to 2 High 40-50 (151.4-189.3 L) 40-50 (151.4-189.3 L)

*Assumptions for Avg or Low Demand household:

- Use of standard or low flow shower heads (2.5 gpm/11.4 L per minute or less)

- No showers with multiple shower heads and/or body jets.

- Standard bathtub (no oversized/jetted tubs)

Demand * Gallon Capacity Recommended

Electric
or GeoSpring Gas

5+ High 100 (378.5 L) 75 (283.9 L)

Avg or Low 80 (302.8 L) 50 (189.3 L)

Avg or Low 50 (189.3 L) 40 (151.4 L)

Avg or Low 40 (151.4 L) 40 (181.8 L)

Avg or Low 30 (113.6 L) 30 (113.6 L)

Water Heater Temperature Setpoint:

The water heater temperature setting strongly impacts the
amount of hot water available for showers and baths.

• The average setting of water heaters in the USA is about
135°F (57°C), so energy consumption/savings and efficiency
testing of water heaters, including the GeoSpring, is
performed at a 135°F (57°C) setting.

• Safety regulations require a factory setting of 120°F to 125°F
(49°C to 52°C) max for all new water heaters. Therefore, if
your water heater is currently set at 130°F (54°C) or above
and your new water heater is installed with a factory set
setpoint of 120°F (49°C), the new water heater may seem to
provide lower capacity than your existing water heater.

• The user can adjust the temperature setting to meet their
needs. Always read and understand the safety instructions
contained in the users manual before adjusting the
temperature setpoint.

If your

14

Installation Instructions

LOCATION (CONT.)

Route to open drain. Line
should be at least 3/4”
(1.9 cm) ID and pitched
for proper drainage.

B

A— Diameter of water heater

plus 2” (5.1 cm) min.

A

NOTE: Auxiliary catch pan MUST conform to local codes.
Catch Pan Kits are available from the store where the water

heater was purchased, a builder store or any water heater
distributor.

Required clearances:

There must be a 5-1/2” (14 cm) minimum (7”/17.8 cm
recommended) clearance between any object and the Front
and Rear covers in the event service is needed. A minimum of

3” (7.6 cm) clearance with the sides of the water heater is also
recommended for service access.

5-1/2”

(14 cm)

A 14” (35.6 cm) minimum clearance is required to remove the
filter for cleaning. The hot and cold water plumbing
and electrical connections must not interfere with
the removal of the filter.

B— Maximum 2” (5.1 cm)

5-1/2”

(14 cm)

14” (35.6 cm)

THERMAL EXPANSION

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 is referred to as a “closed water system.”
A cold water inlet line with no check valve or backflow
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 on right). 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.

Condensation drain

The unit has a condensate drain; therefore a drain must be
available in close proximity to the unit. The drain must be no
higher than 36” (91.4 cm) above the floor (laundry drain is
acceptable).
If no drain is available, then a common condensate pump with
a capacity no less than 1 gallon (3.8 L)/day must be purchased
from a local builder and supply store and installed.

15