manual is not followed exactly, a fire or
explosion may result causing property damage,
personal injury or loss of life.
-- This water heater MUST NOT be installed in
any location where gasoline or flammable vapors
are likely to be present.
-- WHAT TO DO IF YOU SMELL GAS
AWX2-I-O Rev A
Installation & Operation
Manual
Models: 1000 - 1500
• Do not try to light any appliance.
• Do not touch any electric switch; do not use any
phone in your building.
• Immediately call your gas supplier from a near by
phone. Follow the gas supplier’s instructions.
• If you cannot reach your gas supplier, call the fire
department.
• Installation and service must be performed by a
qualified installer, service agency, or the gas
supplier.
WARNING
Save this manual for future reference.
This manual must only be used
by a qualified heating installer
/ service technician. Read all
instructions, including this manual
and the Armor X2 Water Heater
Service Manual, before installing.
Perform steps in the order given.
Failure to comply could result in
severe personal injury, death, or
substantial property damage.
Revision Notes .................................................................... Back Cover
Hazard definitions
The following defined terms are used throughout this manual to bring attention to the presence of hazards of various risk levels or
to important information concerning the life of the product.
DANGER
WARNING
CAUTION
CAUTION
NOTICE
2
DANGER indicates an imminently hazardous situation which, if not avoided, will result in death or serious
injury.
WARNING indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if not avoided, could result in death or serious
injury.
CAUTION indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if not avoided, may result in minor or moderate
injury.
CAUTION used without the safety alert symbol indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if not
avoided, may result in property damage.
NOTICE indicates special instructions on installation, operation, or maintenance that are important but not
related to personal injury or property damage.
Please read before proceeding
Installation & Operation Manual
WARNING
NOTICE
Installer – Read all instructions, including
this manual and the Armor X2 Water
Heater Service Manual, before installing.
Perform steps in the order given.
Have this water heater serviced/inspected
by a qualified service technician, at least
annually.
Failure to comply with the above could
result in severe personal injury, death or
substantial property damage.
When calling or writing about the water
heater – Please have the water heater
model and serial number from the water
heater rating plate.
Consider piping and installation when
determining water heater location.
Any claims for damage or shortage in
shipment must be filed immediately
against the transportation company by the
consignee.
Factory warranty (shipped with unit) does
not apply to units improperly installed or
improperly operated.
When servicing the water heater –
• To avoid electric shock, disconnect electrical supply
before performing maintenance.
• To avoid severe burns, allow the water heater to cool
before performing maintenance.
Water heater operation –
• Do not block flow of combustion or ventilation air to
the water heater.
• Should overheating occur or gas supply fail to shut off,
do not turn off or disconnect electrical supply to
circulator. Instead, shut off the gas supply at a location
external to the appliance.
• Do not use this water heater if any part has been under
water. The possible damage to a flooded appliance can
be extensive and present numerous safety hazards. Any
appliance that has been under water must be replaced.
WARNING
WARNING
Failure to adhere to the guidelines on this
page can result in severe personal injury,
death, or substantial property damage.
If the information in this manual is not
followed exactly, a fire or explosion may
result causing property damage, personal
injury or loss of life.
-- This water heater MUST NOT be
installed in any location where gasoline or
flammable vapors are likely to be present.
-- WHAT TO DO IF YOU SMELL GAS
• Do not try to light any appliance.
• Do not touch any electric switch; do
not use any phone in your building.
• Immediately call your gas supplier from
a near by phone. Follow the gas supplier’s
instructions.
• If you cannot reach your gas supplier,
call the fire department.
• Installation and service must be
performed by a qualified installer,
service agency, or the gas supplier.
3
Installation & Operation Manual
The Armor X2 Water Heater - How it works...
1. Access cover - front
Provides access to the gas train and the heat exchanger.
2. Air intake adapter
Allows for the connection of the PVC air intake pipe to the
water heater.
3. Air pressure switches
The air pressure switches detect blocked flue/vent conditions.
4. Air shrouds (1.0 Model only)
The air shrouds control air and gas flow into the burners.
5. Automatic air vents
Designed to remove trapped air from the heat exchanger
coils.
6. Blowers
The blowers pull in air and gas through the venturis (item
36). Air and gas mix inside the blowers and are pushed into the
burners, where they burn inside the combustion chamber.
7. Water heater drain port
Location from which the heat exchangers can be drained.
8. Water heater inlet temperature sensors
These sensors monitor inlet water temperature.
9. Water heater outlet temperature sensors
These sensors monitor water heater outlet water temperature.
10. Burners (not shown)
Made with metal fiber and stainless steel construction,
the burners use pre-mixed air and gas and provide a
wide range of firing rates.
11. Condensate drain connection
Connects the condensate drain line to a 1/2" PVC union.
12. Control modules
The control modules respond to internal and external signals
and control the blowers, gas valves, and pumps to meet the
heating demand.
13. Electronic display
Digital controls with touch screen technology and full color
display.
14. Flame inspection windows
The quartz glass windows provide a view of the burner
surfaces and flames.
15. Flame sensors
Used by the control module to detect the presence of burner
flame.
16. Flap valves
Prevents recirculation of flue products when only one burner is
running.
17. Flue gas sensors
These sensors monitor the flue gas exit temperature. The
control modules will modulate and shut down the water heater
if the flue gas temperature gets too hot. This protects the flue
pipe from overheating.
18. Flue pipe adapter
Allows for the connection of the PVC vent pipe system to the
water heater.
19. Gas connection pipe
Threaded 1½" pipe connection. This pipe should be
connected to the incoming gas supply for the purpose of
delivering gas to the water heater.
20. Gas shutoff valves (inside unit)
Manual valves used to isolate the gas valves from the burners.
21. Gas shutoff valve (outside unit)
Manual valve used to isolate the gas valve from the gas supply.
22. Gas valves
The gas valves sense the negative pressure created by the
blowers, allowing gas to flow only if the gas valves are
powered and combustion air is flowing.
23. Heat exchanger access covers
Allows access to the combustion side of the heat
exchanger coils.
24. High limits
Devices used to monitor the outlet water temperature. If the
temperature exceeds its setting, they will break the control
circuit, shutting the water heater down.
25. Ignition electrodes
Provides direct spark for igniting the burners.
26. Line voltage junction box
The junction box contains the connection points for the line
voltage power and all pumps.
27. Line voltage wiring connections (knockouts)
Conduit connection points for the high voltage junction box.
28. Low voltage connection board
The connection board is used to connect external low voltage
devices.
29. Low voltage wiring connections (knockouts)
Conduit connection points for the low voltage connection board.
30. Power switch
Turns 120 VAC ON/OFF to the heater.
31. Pump relay board
The pump relay board is used to control the HW pumps.
32. Relief valve
Protects the heat exchangers from an over pressure condition.
The relief valve will be set at 150 PSI and 210°F.
33. Stainless steel heat exchangers
Allows system water to flow through specially designed coils for
maximum heat transfer, while providing protection against flue
gas corrosion. The coils are encased in a jacket that contains the
combustion process.
34. Temperature and pressure gauge
Monitors the outlet temperature of the water heater as well as the
system water pressure.
35. Top panel
Removable panel to gain access to the internal components.
36. Venturis
The venturis control air and gas flow into the burners.
37. Water inlets
Two 2 1/2" NPT water connections that return water from the
system to the heat exchangers.
38. Water outlets
A 3" NPT stainless steel water connection that supplies hot water to the
system.
An electrical switch designed to shut down water heater operation in
the event the outer back of the heat exchanger, directly above the
flue connection does not exceed 604°F (318°C). This is a one time
switch and could warrant a heat exchanger replacement. Check
the integrity of the rear refractory at the back of the upper coil if
the switch opens.
40. Flow switch
The flow switch is a safety device that ensures flow through the
heat exchanger during operation. This appliance is low mass
and should never be operated without flow. The flow switch makes
contact when flow is detected and allows the unit to operate. If flow
is discontinued during operation for any reason the flow switch will
break the control circuit and the unit will shut down.
41. Limiting thermostat
The limiting thermostat is used to prevent the outlet water of the
heat exchangers from exceeding 190°F.
4
23
2
33
Installation & Operation Manual
The Armor X2 Water Heater - How it works... (continued)
Models 1.0 - 1.3 - 1.5
3
18
35
21
13
1
IMG00133
29
28
27
26
19
39
17
11
31
12
IMG00134
37
Front View
32
38
7
1.0 MODEL ONLY
41
3416
8
24
9
Rear View
4
22
2
IMG00135A
14
30
40
24
36
6
20
15
25
5
Left Side (inside unit)
IMG00135
22
Right Side (inside unit)
IMG00136
5
Ratings
HLW
Installation & Operation Manual
Model Number
Note: Change “N” to “L” for
L.P. gas models.
AWN1000100,000 - 1,000,0008.42 1/2"3"1 1/2"6"
AWN1300130,000 - 1,300,00010.02 1/2"3"1 1/2"6"
AWN1500150,000 - 1,500,00011.42 1/2"3"1 1/2"6"
NOTICE
Maximum allowed working pressure is located on the rating plate.
Input Modulation Btu/hr
CSA
(Note 2, 3)(Note 1)
Notes:
1. Armor X2 water heaters require special gas venting. Use
only the vent materials and methods specified in the
Armor X2 Installation and Operation Manual.
2. Standard Armor X2 water heaters are equipped to
operate from sea level to 4,500 feet only with no
adjustments. The water heater will de-rate by 4% for
each 1,000 feet above sea level up to 4,500 feet.
3. High altitude Armor X2 water heaters are equipped to
operate from 3,000 to 12,000 feet only with no field
adjustments. The water heater will de-rate by 2% for
each 1,000 feet above 3,000 feet. High altitude models
are manufactured with a different control module for
altitude operation, but the operation given in this manual
remains the same as the standard water heaters. A high
altitude label (as shown in FIG. A) is also affixed to the
unit.
4. The manual reset high limit provided with the Armor X2
is listed to UL353.
Water
Content
Gallons
Water Connections
Gas Connections
InletOutlet
Figure A High Altitude Label Location
Vent/Air Size
UNIT EQUIPPED FOR
HIGH ALTITUDE
3,000 FT. TO 12,000 FT.
6
1 Determine water heater location
Installation & Operation Manual
Installation must comply with:
• Local, state, provincial, and national codes, laws, regulations,
and ordinances.
• National Fuel Gas Code, ANSI Z223.1 – latest edition.
• National Electrical Code.
• For Canada only: B149.1 Installation Code, CSA C22.1
Canadian Electrical Code Part 1 and any local codes.
NOTICE
The Armor X2 water heater gas manifold
and controls met safe lighting and other
performance under tests specified in ANSI
Z21.10.3 – latest edition.
Before locating the water heater, check:
1. Check for nearby connection to:
• Water piping
• Venting connections
• Gas supply piping
• Electrical power
2. Locate the appliance so that if water connections should
leak, water damage will not occur. When such locations
cannot be avoided, it is recommended that a suitable
drain pan, adequately drained, be installed under the
appliance. The pan must not restrict combustion air
flow. Under no circumstances is the manufacturer to be
held responsible for water damage in connection with
this appliance, or any of its components.
3. Check area around the water heater. Remove any
combustible materials, gasoline and other flammable
liquids.
WARNING
4. The Armor X2 water heater must be installed so that gas
control system components are protected from dripping or
spraying water or rain during operation or service.
5. If a new water heater will replace an existing water heater,
check for and correct system problems, such as:
• System leaks causing oxygen corrosion or heat exchanger
cracks from hard water deposits.
WARNING
Failure to keep water heater area clear and
free of combustible materials, gasoline, and
other flammable liquids and vapors can
result in severe personal injury, death, or
substantial property damage.
This appliance is certified as an indoor
appliance. Do not install the appliance
outdoors or locate where the appliance will
be exposed to freezing temperatures or to
temperatures that exceed 100°F.
Do not install the appliance where the
relative humidity may exceed 93%. Do not
install the appliance where condensation
may form on the inside or outside of the
appliance, or where condensation may fall
onto the appliance.
Failure to install the appliance indoors could
result in severe personal injury, death, or
substantial property damage.
WARNING
This appliance requires a special
venting system. Use only the vent
materials, primer and cement
specified in this manual to make the
vent connections. Failure to follow
this warning could result in fire,
personal injury, or death.
Closet and alcove installations
A closet is any room the water heater is installed in which
is less than 778 cubic feet for AW1000 models, 847 cubic
feet for AW1300 models, and 914 cubic feet for AW1500
models.
An alcove is any room which meets the criteria for a
closet with the exception that it does not have a door.
Example: Room dimensions = 9 feet long, 9 feet wide,
and 9 foot ceiling = 9 x 9 x 9 = 729 cubic feet. This would
be considered a closet for a Armor X2 water heater.
WARNING
For closet and alcove installations as
shown in FIG.’s 1-1 and 1-2, CPVC,
polypropylene, and stainless steel
vent material must be used inside the
structure. The ventilating air openings
shown in FIG.’s 1-1 and 1-2 are
required for this arrangement. Failure
to follow this warning could result in
fire, personal injury, or death.
Provide clearances:
Clearances from combustible materials
1. Hot water pipes—at least 1/4" from combustible
materials.
2. Vent pipe – at least 1" from combustible materials.
3. See FIG.’s 1-1 and 1-2 on page 8 for other clearance
minimums.
Clearances for service access
1. See FIG.’s 1-1 and 1-2 on page 8 for recommended
service clearances. If you do not provide the
minimum clearances shown, it may not be possible
to service the water heater without removing it from
the space.
Front - 30" (762 mm)
Top - 24" (610 mm)
Left Side - 24" (610 mm)
Rear - 24" (610 mm)
WARNING
For closet installations, CPVC,
polypropylene or stainless steel
vent material MUST BE used in
a closet structure due to elevated
temperatures. Failure to follow this
warning could result in fire, personal
injury, or death.
4" (330 MM)
TOP
VENTILATING*
AIR OPENING
CLOSED DOOR
VENTILATING*
AIR OPENING
6" (152 MM)
0"
RIGHT
6" (152 MM)
FRONT
*AREA OF EACH OPENING:
1 SQ. INCH PER 1000 BTU PER HOUR INPUT
WITH A MINIMUM OF 100 SQ. INCHES
For alcove installations, CPVC,
polypropylene or stainless steel
vent material MUST BE used in
an alcove structure due to elevated
0"
LEFT
24" (610 MM)
REAR
RECOMMENDED SERVICE
CLEARANCES:
Front - 30" (762 mm)
Top - 24" (610 mm)
6" (152.40 MM)
FRONT
temperatures. Failure to follow
this warning could result in fire,
personal injury, or death.
13" (330 MM)
TOP
OPEN FRONT
0"
RIGHT
Left Side - 24" (610 mm)
Rear - 24" (610 mm)
8
Installation & Operation Manual
1 Determine water heater location (continued)
Provide air openings to room:
The Armor X2 alone in boiler room
1. No air ventilation openings into the boiler room are
needed when clearances around the Armor X2 are at least
equal to the SERVICE clearances shown in FIG.’s 1-1
and 1-2. For spaces that do NOT supply this clearance,
provide two openings as shown in FIG. 1-1. Each
opening must provide one square inch free area per 1,000
Btu/hr of water heater input.
2. Combustion air openings are required when using the
Room Air Option on page 19 of this manual.
The Armor X2 in same space with other gas or oilfired appliances
1. Follow the National Fuel Gas Code (U.S.) or CSA B149.1
(Canada) to size/verify size of the combustion/ventilation
air openings into the space.
WARNING
2. Size openings only on the basis of the other appliances in
the space. No additional air opening free area is needed
for the Armor X2 because it takes its combustion air from
outside (direct vent installation).
The space must be provided with
combustion/ventilation air openings
correctly sized for all other appliances
located in the same space as the Armor X2.
Do not install the water heater in an attic.
Failure to comply with the above warnings
could result in severe personal injury,
death, or substantial property damage.
Flooring and foundation
Flooring
The Armor X2 is approved for installation on combustible
flooring, but must never be installed on carpeting.
WARNING
If flooding is possible, elevate the water heater sufficiently to
prevent water from reaching the water heater.
Do not install the water heater on carpeting
even if foundation is used. Fire can result,
causing severe personal injury, death, or
substantial property damage.
Vent and air piping
The Armor X2 requires a special vent system, designed for
pressurized venting.
The water heater is to be used for either direct vent installation
or for installation using indoor combustion air. When room
air is considered, see Section 5, Vertical Direct Venting. Note
prevention of combustion air contamination below when
considering vent/air termination.
Vent and air must terminate near one another and may be
vented vertically through the roof or out a side wall, unless
otherwise specified. You may use any of the vent/air piping
methods covered in this manual. Do not attempt to install
the Armor X2 using any other means.
Be sure to locate the water heater such that the vent
and air piping can be routed through the building and
properly terminated. The vent/air piping lengths, routing
and termination method must all comply with the methods
and limits given in this manual.
Prevent combustion air contamination
Install air inlet piping for the Armor X2 as described in this
manual. Do not terminate vent/air in locations that can allow
contamination of combustion air. Refer to Table 1A, page
10 for products and areas which may cause contaminated
combustion air.
WARNING
Ensure that the combustion air will not
contain any of the contaminants in Table
1A, page 10. Contaminated combustion
air will damage the water heater, resulting
in possible severe personal injury, death
or substantial property damage. Do not
pipe combustion air near a swimming
pool, for example. Also, avoid areas
subject to exhaust fumes from laundry
facilities. These areas will always contain
contaminants.
9
1 Determine water heater location
Installation & Operation Manual
Table 1A Corrosive Contaminants and Sources
Products to avoid:
Spray cans containing chloro/fluorocarbons
Permanent wave solutions
Chlorinated waxes/cleaners
Chlorine-based swimming pool chemicals
Calcium chloride used for thawing
Sodium chloride used for water softening
Refrigerant leaks
Paint or varnish removers
Hydrochloric acid/muriatic acid
Cements and glues
Antistatic fabric softeners used in clothes dryers
Chlorine-type bleaches, detergents, and cleaning solvents
found in household laundry rooms
Adhesives used to fasten building products and other similar
products
Areas likely to have contaminants
Dry cleaning/laundry areas and establishments
When using an existing vent system to
install a new water heater:
WARNING
Check the following venting components before installing:
• Material - For materials listed for use with this appliance,
see Section 3 - General Venting. For polypropylene or
stainless steel venting, an adapter of the same
manufacturer must be used at the flue collar connection.
• Size - To ensure proper pipe size is in place, see Table 3A.
Check to see that this size is used throughout the vent
system.
• Manufacturer - For a stainless steel or polypropylene application, you must use only the listed manufacturers
and their type product listed in Tables 3E and 3F for CAT
IV positive pressure venting with flue producing
condensate.
• Supports - Non-combustible supports must be in place
allowing a minimum 1/4" rise per foot. The supports
should adequately prevent sagging and vertical slippage,
by distributing the vent system weight. For additional
information, consult the vent manufacturer’s
instructions for installation.
Failure to follow all instructions can result
in flue gas spillage and carbon monoxide
emissions, causing severe personal injury
or death.
Swimming pools
Metal fabrication plants
Beauty shops
Refrigeration repair shops
Photo processing plants
Auto body shops
Plastic manufacturing plants
Furniture refinishing areas and establishments
New building construction
Remodeling areas
Garages with workshops
• Terminations - Carefully review Sections 3 through 5 to ensure requirements for the location of the vent and air
terminations are met and orientation of these fit the
appropriate image from the Horizontal or Vertical
options listed in the General Venting Section. For
stainless steel vent, only use terminations listed in Table
3F for the manufacturer of the installed vent.
• Seal - With prior requirements met, the system should be tested to the procedure listed in parts (c) through (f) of
the Removal of an Existing Water Heater Section on
page 11.
With polypropylene and stainless steel vent, seal and connect
all pipe and components as specified by the vent manufacturer
used; with PVC/CPVC vent, see the Installing Vent or Air
Piping Section on page 20.
WARNING
If any of these conditions are not met,
the existing system must be updated
or replaced for that concern. Failure to
follow all instructions can result in flue gas
spillage and carbon monoxide emissions,
causing severe personal injury or death.
10
Installation & Operation Manual
1 Determine water heater location (continued)
When removing a water heater from
existing common vent system:
DANGER
Do not install the Armor X2 into a
common vent with any other appliance.
This will cause flue gas spillage or
appliance malfunction, resulting in
possible severe personal injury, death, or
substantial property damage.
WARNING
At the time of removal of an existing water heater, the
following steps shall be followed with each appliance
remaining connected to the common venting system placed
in operation, while the other appliances remaining connected
to the common venting system are not in operation.
a. Seal any unused openings in the common venting system.
b. Visually inspect the venting system for proper size and
horizontal pitch and determine there is no blockage
or restriction, leakage, corrosion, or other deficiencies,
which could cause an unsafe condition.
c. Test vent system – Insofar as is practical, close all building
doors and windows and all doors between the space
in which the appliances remaining connected to the
common venting system are located and other spaces of
the building. Turn on clothes dryers and any appliance
not connected to the common venting system. Turn on
any exhaust fans, such as range hoods and bathroom
exhausts, so they will operate at maximum speed. Do not
operate a summer exhaust fan. Close fireplace dampers.
d. Place in operation the appliance being inspected. Follow
the lighting instructions. Adjust thermostat so appliance
will operate continuously.
e. Test for spillage at the draft hood relief opening after 5
minutes of main burner operation. Use the flame of a
match or candle, or smoke from a cigarette, cigar, or pipe.
f. After it has been determined that each appliance
remaining connected to the common venting system
properly vents when tested as outlined herein, return
doors, windows, exhaust fans, fireplace dampers, and any
other gas-burning appliance to their previous conditions
of use.
g. Any improper operation of the common venting system
should be corrected so the installation conforms with the
National Fuel Gas Code, ANSI Z223.1/NFPA 54 and/or
CAN/CSA B149.1, Natural Gas and Propane Installation
Code. When resizing any portion of the common venting
system, the common venting system should be resized
to approach the minimum size as determined using the
appropriate tables in Part 11 of the National Fuel Gas
Code, ANSI Z223.1/NFPA and/or CAN/CSA B149.1,
Natural Gas and Propane Installation Code.
Failure to follow all instructions can result
in flue gas spillage and carbon monoxide
emissions, causing severe personal injury
or death.
11
1 Determine water heater location
Combustion and ventilation air
requirements for appliances drawing air
from the equipment room
Provisions for combustion and ventilation air must be in
accordance with Air for Combustion and Ventilation, of
the latest edition of the National Fuel Gas Code, ANSI
Z223.1, in Canada, the latest edition of CGA Standard B149
Installation Code for Gas Burning Appliances and Equipment,
or applicable provisions of the local building codes.
The equipment room MUST be provided with properly sized
openings to assure adequate combustion air and proper
ventilation.
Figure 1-4_Combustion Air Through Ducts
2. If combustion and ventilation air is taken from the
outdoors using a duct to deliver the air to the equipment
room, each of the two openings should be sized based on a
minimum free area of one square inch per 2000 Btu/hr
(11 cm2 per kW) of input (see FIG. 1-4).
Installation & Operation Manual
Figure 1-3_Combustion Air Direct from Outside
1. If air is taken directly from outside the building
with no duct, provide two permanent openings to
the equipment room (see FIG. 1-3):
(a) Combustion air opening, with a minimum free
area of one square inch per 4000 Btu/hr input
2
(5.5 cm
per kW). This opening must be located
within 12" (30 cm) of the bottom of the enclosure.
(b) Ventilation air opening, with a minimum free
area of one square inch per 4000 Btu/hr input
(5.5 cm
2
per kW). This opening must be located
within 12" (30 cm) of the top of the enclosure.
IF NECESSARY
FOR TIGHT
CONSTRUCTION
Figure 1-5_Combustion Air from Interior Space
3. If air is taken from another interior space, each of the
two openings specified above should have a net free
area of one square inch for each 1000 Btu/hr (22 cm2
per kW) of input, but not less than 100 square inches
(645 cm2) (see FIG. 1-5).
12
1 Determine water heater location (continued)
Where two openings are provided, one must be within 12"
(30cm) of the ceiling and one must be within 12" (30cm) of the
floor of the equipment room. Each opening must have net free
area as specified in the chart below (Table 1B). Single openings
shall commence within 12" (30cm) of the ceiling.
Under no circumstances should the
equipment room ever be under negative
pressure. Particular care should be taken
where exhaust fans, attic fans, clothes dryers,
compressors, air handling units, etc., may
take away air from the unit.
Figure 1-6_Combustion Air from Outside - Single
Opening
4. If a single combustion air opening is provided to bring
combustion air in directly from the outdoors, the opening
must be sized based on a minimum free area of one
square inch per 3000 Btu/hr (7 cm2 per kW). This
opening must be located within 12" (30 cm) of the top of
the enclosure (see FIG. 1-6).
Combustion air requirements are based on the latest edition
of the National Fuel Gas Code, ANSI Z223.1; in Canada refer
to the latest edition of CGA Standard CAN B149.1. Check all
local code requirements for combustion air.
All dimensions based on net free area in square inches. Metal
louvers or screens reduce the free area of a combustion air
opening a minimum of approximately 25%. Check with
louver manufacturers for exact net free area of louvers.
CAUTION
The combustion air supply must be completely free of any
flammable vapors that may ignite or chemical fumes which may
be corrosive to the appliance. Common corrosive chemical
fumes which must be avoided are fluorocarbons and other
halogenated compounds, most commonly present as refrigerants
or solvents, such as Freon, trichlorethylene, perchlorethylene,
chlorine, etc. These chemicals, when burned, form acids which
quickly attack the stainless steel heat exchanger, headers, flue
collectors, and the vent system.
The result is improper combustion and a non-warrantable,
premature appliance failure.
EXHAUST FANS: Any fan or equipment which exhausts air
from the equipment room may deplete the combustion air
supply and/or cause a downdraft in the venting system. Spillage
of flue products from the venting system into an occupied
living space can cause a very hazardous condition that must be
corrected immediately.
Installation & Operation Manual
TABLE - 1B
MINIMUM RECOMMENDED COMBUSTION
AIR SUPPLY TO EQUIPMENT ROOM
FIG. 1-3FIG. 1-4FIG. 1-5FIG. 1-6
Model
Number
1000
1300
1500
*Outside Air from
2 Openings Directly from
Outdoors
Top
Opening, in
250
(1613 cm2)
325
(2097 cm2)
375
(2420 cm2)
Bottom
2
Opening, in
250
(1613 cm2)
325
(2097 cm2)
375
(2420 cm2)
2
*Outside Air from
2 Ducts Delivered from
Outdoors
Top
Opening, in
2
Opening, in
Bottom
500
(3226 cm2)
(3226 cm2)
650
(4194 cm2)
(4194 cm2)
750
(4839 cm2)
(4839 cm2)
500
650
750
**Inside Air from
2 Ducts Delivered from
Interior Space
Top
2
Opening, in
2
1000
(6452 cm2)
1300
(8388 cm2)
1500
(9678 cm2)
Bottom
Opening, in
1000
(6452 cm2)
1300
(8388 cm2)
1500
(9678 cm2)
*Outside Air from
1 Opening Directly
from Outdoors, in
2
333
(2149 cm2)
433
(2794 cm2)
500
(3226 cm2)
2
*Outside air openings shall directly communicate with the outdoors. When combustion air is drawn from the outside through a
duct, the net free area of each of the two openings must have twice (2 times) the free area required for Outside Air/2 Openings.
The above requirements are for the appliance only; additional gas fired appliances in the equipment room will require an increase
in the net free area to supply adequate combustion air for all appliances.
**Combined interior space must be 50 cubic feet per 1,000 Btu/hr input. Buildings MUST NOT be of *“Tight Construction”.
For buildings of *“Tight Construction”, provide air openings into the building from outside.
*No combustion air openings are needed when the appliance is installed in a space with a volume NO LESS than 50 cubic feet per
1,000 Btu/hr of all installed gas fired appliances. Buildings MUST NOT be of *“Tight Construction”.
*”Tight Construction” is defined as a building with less than 0.40 ACH (air changes per hour).
13
2 Prepare water heater
T
Remove water heater from wood pallet
1. After removing the outer shipping carton from the water
heater, remove the parts package (packaged parts inside the
jacket of the water heater).
2. To remove the water heater from the pallet:
a. Remove the front door of the water heater.
b. Remove the two lag bolts from the wood pallet
inside the water heater (FIG. 2-1).
c. Detach the water heater from the lag bolts in the rear of
the unit, see FIG. 2-1.
NOTICE
Figure 2-1 Water heater Mounted on Shipping Pallet
Do not drop the water heater or bump the
jacket on the floor or pallet. Damage to the
water heater can result.
Installation & Operation Manual
LAG BOLTS
(QTY. 3)
REAR
LAG BOLTS
(QTY. 3)
FRON
Maintain minimum specified clearances for adequate operation.
All installations must allow sufficient space for servicing the
vent connections, water pipe connections, piping and other
auxiliary equipment, as well as the appliance. The clearance
labels on each appliance note the same service and combustible
clearance requirements as shown in this manual.
Multiple appliances may be installed in a modular water heater
installation. Multiple appliances may be installed side by side
with no clearance between adjacent appliances because this
appliance is approved for zero clearance from combustible
surfaces and no service access is required from the sides.
Consult the Venting section of this manual for specific
installation instructions for the appropriate type of venting
system that you will be using.
14
3 Generalventing
Direct venting options - Sidewall Vent
Installation & Operation Manual
Figure 3-1 Two-Pipe Sidewall Termination - See page
23 for more details
Direct venting options - Vertical Vent
Figure 3-2 Two-Pipe Vertical Termination - See
page 27 for more details
Figure 3-3 Vertical Vent, Sidewall
Air - See page 19 for more details
15
3 Generalventing
Install vent and combustion air piping
Installation & Operation Manual
DANGER
WARNING
WARNING
NOTICE
WARNING
The Armor X2 water heater must be
vented and supplied with combustion and
ventilation air as described in this section.
Ensure the vent and air piping and the
combustion air supply comply with these
instructions regarding vent system, air
system, and combustion air quality. See
also Section 1 of this manual.
Inspect finished vent and air piping
thoroughly to ensure all are airtight and
comply with the instructions provided and
with all requirements of applicable codes.
Failure to provide a properly installed vent
and air system will cause severe personal
injury or death.
This appliance requires a special venting
system. Use only approved stainless steel,
PVC, CPVC or polypropylene pipe and
fittings listed in Tables 3C, 3E, and 3F for
vent pipe, and fittings. Failure to comply
could result in severe personal injury,
death, or substantial property damage.
DO NOT mix components from different
systems. The vent system could fail,
causing leakage of flue products into the
living space. Mixing of venting materials
will void the warranty and certification of
the appliance.
Installation must comply with local
requirements and with the National
Fuel Gas Code, ANSI Z223.1 for U.S.
installations or CSA B149.1 for Canadian
installations.
For closet and alcove installations, CPVC,
polypropylene or stainless steel material
MUST BE used in a closet/alcove structure.
Failure to follow this warning could result
in fire, personal injury, or death.
The Armor X2 water heater vent and air piping can be installed
through the roof or through a sidewall. Follow the procedures
in this manual for the method chosen. Refer to the information
in this manual to determine acceptable vent and air piping
length.
You may use any of the vent/air piping methods covered in this
manual. Do not attempt to install the Armor X2 water heater
using any other means.
You must also install air piping from outside to the water
heater air intake adapter unless following the Optional Room
Air instructions on page 19 of this manual. The resultant
installation is direct vent (sealed combustion).
Air intake/vent connections
1. Combustion Air Intake Connector (FIG. 3-4) - Used to
provide combustion air directly to the unit from outdoors. A
fitting is provided with the unit for final connection.
Combustion air piping must be supported per guidelines
listed in the National Mechanical Code, Section 305, Table
305.4 or as local codes dictate.
2. Vent Connector (FIG.'s 3-5 thru 3-8) - Used to provide a
passageway for conveying combustion gases to the
outside. A transition fitting is provided on the unit for
final connection. Vent piping must be supported per the
National Building Code, Section 305, Table 305.4 or as
local codes dictate.
Figure 3-4 Near Water Heater Air Piping
AIR
CAUTION
NOTICE
WARNING
16
Improper installation of venting systems
may result in injury or death.
Follow the instructions in Section 1, page
11 of this manual when removing a water
heater from an existing vent system.
Do not connect any other appliance to
the vent pipe or multiple water heaters to
a common vent pipe. Failure to comply
could result in severe personal injury,
death, or substantial property damage.
3 Generalventing (continued)
Installation & Operation Manual
Requirements for installation in
Canada
1. Installations must be made with a vent pipe system
certified to ULC-S636.
2. The first three (3) feet of plastic vent pipe from the
appliance flue outlet must be readily accessible for visual
inspection.
3. The components of the certified vent system must not be
interchanged with other vent systems or unlisted
pipe/fittings.
Table 3A Air Intake/Vent Piping Sizes
Model
AW 10006"12'100'6"12'100'1.25%*
AW 13006"12'50'6"12'50'2.90%
AW 13007"12'100'7"12'100'0.95%
AW 15006"12'50'6"12'50'3.30%
AW 15007"12'100'7"12'100'1.65%
*LP models will derate by 1.5% per 25 feet of vent pipe.
Note: When using a 7" vent or air pipe, a field supplied increaser is required.
Air Intake
Diameter
Air Intake
Min. Length
Air Intake
Max. Length
Sizing
The Armor X2 water heater uses model specific combustion
air intake and vent piping sizes as detailed in Table 3A below.
When determining equivalent combustion air and vent
length, add 5 feet for each 90° elbow and 3 feet for each 45°
elbow.
Increasing or decreasing combustion air or vent piping sizes is not authorized.
17
3 Generalventing
Materials
Air inlet pipe materials:
The air inlet pipe(s) must be sealed. Choose acceptable
combustion air inlet pipe materials from the following list:
PVC, CPVC, Polypropylene or ABS
Dryer Vent or Sealed Flexible Duct (not recommended
for rooftop air inlet)
Galvanized steel vent pipe with joints and seams sealed as
specified in this section.
Type “B” double-wall vent with joints and seams sealed as
specified in this section.
AL29-4C, stainless steel material to be sealed to
specification of its manufacturer.
*Plastic pipe may require an adapter (not provided) to
transition between the air inlet connection on the appliance
and the plastic air inlet pipe.
WARNING
NOTICE
Using air intake materials other than
those specified can result in personal
injury, death or property damage.
The use of double-wall vent or insulated
material for the combustion air inlet pipe is
recommended in cold climates to prevent
the condensation of airborne moisture in
the incoming combustion air.
Installation & Operation Manual
The PVC, CPVC, or ABS air inlet pipe should be cleaned and
sealed with the pipe manufacturer’s recommended solvents
and standard commercial pipe cement for the material used.
The PVC, CPVC, ABS, Dryer Vent or Flex Duct air inlet pipe
should use a silicone sealant to ensure a proper seal at the
appliance connection and the air inlet cap connection. Dryer
vent or flex duct should use a screw type clamp to seal the vent
to the appliance air inlet and the air inlet cap. Proper sealing
of the air inlet pipe ensures that combustion air will be free of
contaminants and supplied in proper volume.
When a sidewall or vertical rooftop combustion air supply
system is disconnected for any reason, the air inlet pipe must
be resealed to ensure that combustion air will be free of
contaminants and supplied in proper volume.
DANGER
Failure to properly seal all joints and seams
as required in the air inlet piping may
result in flue gas recirculation, spillage
of flue products and carbon monoxide
emissions causing severe personal injury
or death.
Sealing of Type “B” double-wall vent material or galvanized
vent pipe material used for air inlet piping on a sidewall or
vertical rooftop Combustion Air Supply System:
a. Seal all joints and seams of the air inlet pipe using either
Aluminum Foil Duct Tape meeting UL Standard 723 or
181A-P or a high quality UL Listed silicone sealant such as
those manufactured by Dow Corning or General Electric.
b. Do not install seams of vent pipe on the bottom of
horizontal runs.
c. Secure all joints with a minimum of three (3) sheet metal
screws or pop rivets. Apply Aluminum Foil Duct Tape or
silicone sealant to all screws or rivets installed in the vent
pipe.
d. Ensure that the air inlet pipes are properly supported.
18
3 Generalventing (continued)
Optional room air
Applications utilizing the Armor X2 water heater may be
installed with a single pipe carrying the flue products to the
outside while using combustion air from the equipment
room. In order to use the room air venting option the
following conditions and considerations must be followed.
• The unit MUST be installed with the appropriate
room air kit (Table 3B).
• The equipment room MUST be provided with
properly sized openings to assure adequate
combustion air. Please refer to instructions provided
with the room air kit.
• There will be a noticeable increase in the noise level
during normal operation from the inlet air opening.
• Using the room air kit makes the unit vulnerable to
combustion air contamination from within the
building. Please review Section 1, Prevent
Combustion Air Contamination, to ensure proper
installation.
• Vent system and terminations must comply with the
standard venting instructions set forth in this
manual.
WARNING
Figure 3-5 Room Air Installation
When utilizing the single pipe method,
provisions for combustion and ventilation
air must be in accordance with Air for
Combustion and Ventilation, of the latest
edition of the National Fuel Gas Code,
ANSI Z223.1, in Canada, the latest edition
of CGA Standard B149 Installation
Code for Gas Burning Appliances and
Equipment, or applicable provisions of
the local building codes.
NOTICE
FOR DIRECT VENT SYSTEMS
REMOVE AIR INLET COVER AND
INSTALL RUBBER COUPLING FOR
PVC / CPVC VENT SYSTEMS OR
STAINLESS STEEL ADAPTER FOR
STAINLESS STEEL VENT SYSTEMS
Installation & Operation Manual
Table 3B Room Air Minimum / Maximum Allowable Air /
Vent Lengths
Model
AW 10006"12’100’0.63%*
AW 13006"12’100’1.45%
AW 15006"12’100’1.65%
*LP models will derate by .9% per 25 feet of vent pipe.
Air contamination
Pool and laundry products and common household and hobby
products often contain fluorine or chlorine compounds. When
these chemicals pass through the water heater, they can form
strong acids. The acid can eat through the water heater wall,
causing serious damage and presenting a possible threat of flue
gas spillage or water heater water leakage into the building.
Please read the information given in Table 1A, page 10, listing
contaminants and areas likely to contain them. If contaminating
chemicals will be present near the location of the water heater
combustion air inlet, have your installer pipe the water heater
combustion air and vent to another location, per this manual.
WARNING
WARNING
Vent
Diameter
If the water heater combustion air inlet is
located in a laundry room or pool facility,
for example, these areas will always contain
hazardous contaminants.
To prevent the potential of severe personal
injury or death, check for areas and products
listed in Table 1A, page 10 before installing
the water heater or air inlet piping.
If contaminants are found, you MUST:
Vent
Min.
Length
• Remove contaminants permanently.
• Relocate air inlet and vent terminations
Vent
Max.
Length
—OR—
to other areas.
Input
De-Rate per
25 feet of
Vent
19
3 Generalventing
Installation & Operation Manual
PVC/CPVC
This product has been approved for use with the PVC/CPVC
vent materials listed in Table 3C.
Installing vent and air piping
WARNING
NOTICE
NOTICE
WARNING
WARNING
Table 3C PVC/CPVC Vent Pipe, and Fittings
The vent connection to the appliance must
be made with the starter CPVC pipe section
provided with the appliance if PVC/CPVC
vent is to be used. The field provided
vent fittings must be cemented to the
CPVC pipe section using an “All Purpose
Cement” suitable for PVC and CPVC pipe.
Use only the vent materials, primer, and
cement specified in Table 3C to make
the vent connections. Failure to follow
this warning could result in fire, personal
injury, or death.
Use only cleaners, primers, and solvents
that are approved for the materials which
are joined together.
All PVC vent pipes must be glued, properly
supported, and the exhaust must be pitched
a minimum of a 1/4 inch per foot back to
the water heater (to allow drainage of
condensate).
Insulation should not be used on PVC
or CPVC venting materials. The use of
insulation will cause increased vent wall
temperatures, which could result in vent
pipe failure.
For all installations, the first ten (10)
equivalent feet of vent must be CPVC or
stainless steel (see FIG. 3-6). Failure to
follow this warning could result in fire,
personal inury, or death.
Approved PVC/CPVC Vent Pipe and Fittings
ItemMaterialStandard
PVC Schedule 40, 80ANSI/ASTM D1785
Vent pipe
Vent fittings
Pipe Cement /
Primer
NOTICE: DO NOT USE CELLULAR (FOAM) CORE PIPE
PVC - DWVANSI/ASTM D2665
CPVC Schedule 40, 80ANSI/ASTM F441
PVC Schedule 40ANSI/ASTM D2466
PVC Schedule 80ANSI/ASTM D2467
CPVC Schedule 80ANSI/ASTM F439
PVCANSI/ASTM D2564
CPVCANSI/ASTM F493
1. Work from the water heater to vent or air termination.
Do not exceed the lengths given in this manual for the
air or vent piping.
2. Cut pipe to the required lengths and deburr the inside
and outside of the pipe ends.
3. Chamfer outside of each pipe end to ensure even
cement distribution when joining.
4. Clean all pipe ends and fittings using a clean dry rag.
(Moisture will retard curing and dirt or grease will prevent
adhesion.)
5. Dry fit vent or air piping to ensure proper fit up before
assembling any joint. The pipe should go a third to
two-thirds into the fitting to ensure proper sealing after
cement is applied.
6. Priming and Cementing:
a. Handle fittings and pipes carefully to prevent
contamination of surfaces.
b. Apply a liberal even coat of primer to the fitting
socket and to the pipe end to approximately 1/2"
beyond the socket depth.
c. Apply a second primer coat to the fitting socket.
d. While primer is still wet, apply an even coat of
approved cement to the pipe equal to the depth of
the fitting socket along with an even coat of
approved cement to the fitting socket.
e. Apply a second coat of cement to the pipe.
f. While the cement is still wet, insert the pipe into
the fitting, if possible twist the pipe a 1/4 turn as
you insert it. NOTE: If voids are present,
sufficient cement was not applied and joint could
be defective.
g. Wipe excess cement from the joint removing ring or
beads as it will needlessly soften the pipe.
Figure 3-6 Near Water Heater PVC/CPVC Venting
CPVC ELBOW
5'
CPVC PIPE
NOTE: In Canada, CPVC and PVC vent pipe, fi ttings and cement/
primer must be ULC-S636 certifi ed.
20
3 Generalventing (continued)
A
Installation & Operation Manual
Polypropylene
This product has been approved for use with polypropylene
vent with the manufacturers listed in Table 3D.
All terminations must comply with listed options in this manual
and be a single-wall vent offering.
For use of flex pipe, it is recommended to have the vent material
in 32°F or higher ambient space before bending at installation.
No bends should be made to greater than 45° and ONLY
installed in vertical or near vertical installations.
For support and special connections required, see the
manufacturer's instructions. All vent is to conform to standard
diameter and equivalent length requirements established.
Table 3D Polypropylene Vent Pipe and Fittings
Approved Polypropylene Vent Manufacturers
MakeModel
Centrotherm Eco Systems
Duravent (M & G Group)
NOTICE
PolyPro Single-Wall / PolyPro Flex
The installer must use a specific vent starter
adapter at the flue collar connection,
supplied by the vent manufacturer to
adapt to its vent system. See Table 3E for
approved vent adapters. Discard CPVC
starter piece.
InnoFlue SW/Flex
WARNING
NOTICE
NOTICE
Figure 3-7 Near Water Heater Polypropylene Venting
Use only the adapters and vent system listed
in Tables 3E and 3F. DO NOT mix vent
systems of different types or manufacturers.
Failure to comply could result in severe
personal injury, death, or substantial
property damage.
Installations must comply with applicable
national, state, and local codes. For
Canadian installation, polypropylene vent
must be listed as a ULC-S636 approved
system.
Installation of a polypropylene vent system
should adhere to the vent manufacturer’s
installation instructions supplied with the
vent system.
NOTICE
WARNING
Table 3E Approved PolypropyleneTerminations
Model
1000 -1500
* These parts are only needed if the sidewall termination assembly is used (see FIG. 4-4B on page 25).
All vent connections MUST be secured by
the vent manufacturer's joint connector
(FIG. 3-7).
Insulation should not be used on
polypropylene venting materials. The use
of insulation will cause increased vent wall
temperatures, which could result in vent
pipe failure.