Rheem 310 Owner's Manual And Installation Instructions
This water heater must be installed and serviced by a qualified person.
Please leave this guide with the householder.
Owner’s Guide
and
Installation Instructions
Air Sourced 310 Heat Pump
Water Heater
PATENTS
This water heater may be protected by one or more patents or registered designs in the name of
Rheem Australia Pty Ltd.
TRADE MARKS
®
Registered trademark of Rheem Australia Pty Ltd.
™ Trademark of Rheem Australia Pty Ltd.
Note: Every care has been taken to ensure accuracy in preparation of this publication.
No liability can be accepted for any consequences, which may arise as a result of its application.
3
CONTENTS
HOUSEHOLDER – We recommend you read pages 4 to 17.
The other pages are intended for the installer but may be of interest.
About Your Water Heater ............................................................................................................ 4
Regular Care ................................................................................................................................ 9
Water Supplies ........................................................................................................................... 11
Save A Service Call ................................................................................................................... 13
Installation .................................................................................................................................. 18
Heat Pump And Tank Assembly .............................................................................................. 25
Connections – Plumbing .......................................................................................................... 32
Connections – Electrical ........................................................................................................... 34
Multiple Installations ................................................................................................................. 36
Commissioning .......................................................................................................................... 39
Draining The Water Heater ....................................................................................................... 41
Warranty ..................................................................................................................................... 43
4
ABOUT YOUR WATER HEATER
WATER HEATER APPLICATION
This water heater is designed for use in a single family domestic dwelling for the purpose of heating potable
water. Its use in an application other than this may shorten its life.
MODEL TYPE
Your Rheem® air sourced heat pump water heater is designed for outdoor installation only. The model you
have chosen is a 551 series model. The 551 310 model heat pump water heater is recommended for
connection to a minimum 16 hour per day power supply.
A Rheem heat pump water heater consumes less energy than an electric water heater. The impact on an
electricity account will depend on the tariff arrangement of the water heater replaced and where you live.
Contact your energy provider for more information on tariff arrangements and cost comparisons.
The Rheem air sourced heat pump water heater has a Rheemglas® vitreous enamel lined steel cylinder. The
water heater‟s evaporator absorbs heat from the surrounding air and transfers this heat into the water.
When hot water is drawn off and cold water enters the tank, the thermostat activates a fan, a compressor
and a circulator. The fan draws outside air in through the air inlet louvres at the top of the water heater and
the pump circulates water from the bottom of the storage tank through a heat exchanger. Heat is absorbed
from the air by an evaporator and transferred into the water through the heat exchanger. The resulting cold
air is then discharged through the air outlet louvres back to atmosphere and the heated water is circulated
back into the top of the storage tank. This process continues while ever heating is required until the water in
the storage tank reaches a temperature of 60°C.
Even on cloudy or cold days, heat is drawn from the surrounding air. The heat
pump will operate when the ambient air temperature is 5°C or higher. The
booster heating unit will operate when the ambient air temperature falls below
5°C, if heating is required. The efficiency of the water heater increases as the
surrounding ambient air temperature increases.
Automatic safety controls are fitted to the water heater to provide safe and
efficient operation.
ELECTRIC BOOSTING
Ice may begin to form on the evaporator reducing the heat pump efficiency,
when the ambient air temperature falls below 7°C and the heat pump has been
operating for an extended period. At ambient air temperatures below 5°C, the
water heater deactivates the heat pump operation and switches to the booster
heating unit. During this period the evaporator will defrost if necessary.
The boost capacity in this mode is 220 litres. The water inside the tank will be
heated to a temperature of 60°C by the electric booster heating unit if heating
is required. The temperature setting of the sensor controlling the booster
heating unit is not adjustable and is set at 60°C.
FREEZE PROTECTION
The water heater has a freeze protection system. The freeze protection system will protect the water heater
from damage, by preventing ice forming in the waterways of the water heater, in the event of freezing
conditions occurring.
If the water temperature at the heat pump heat exchanger falls below 3°C and the heat pump is not
operating, the system will operate the circulator periodically. Water is circulated from the storage tank
through the heat pump circuit, to prevent freezing in the connecting pipe work and heat pump module.
During this freeze protection cycle, the circulator will operate for at least thirty (30) seconds, deactivating
when the water temperature increases above 5°C. The water heater has NO WARRANTY for freeze damage
if power is unavailable at the water heater.
Warning: In areas where the ambient air temperature may fall below 4°C, power must be available to the
water heater at all times to prevent freezing in the heat pump circuit.
ABOUT YOUR WATER HEATER
5
HOW HOT SHOULD THE WATER BE?
The system controls (compressor, evaporator and fan) will operate
until a water temperature of approximately 60°C is reached. If the
ambient air temperature is outside of the heat pump‟s operating
range, the water temperature is boosted automatically to 60°C by
the electric booster heating unit, if heating is required.
To meet the requirements of the National Plumbing Standard the
temperature of the stored water must not be below 60°C.
HOTTER WATER INCREASES THE RISK OF SCALD INJURY
This water heater can deliver water at temperatures which can
cause scalding. Check the water temperature before use, such as
when entering a shower or filling a bath or basin, to ensure it is
suitable for the application and will not cause scald injury.
We recommend and it may also be required by regulations that an
approved temperature limiting device be fitted into the hot water
pipe work to the bathroom and ensuite when this water heater is
installed. This will keep the water temperature below 50°C at the
bathroom and ensuite. The risk of scald injury will be reduced and
still allow hotter water to the kitchen and laundry.
TEMPERATURE ADJUSTMENT
The thermostats controlling the heat pump and the booster heating unit are factory set and not adjustable.
WARNING
This water heater is only intended to be operated by persons who have the experience or the knowledge and
the capabilities to do so. This water heater is not intended to be operated by persons with reduced physical,
sensory or mental capabilities i.e. the infirm, or by children. Children should be supervised to ensure they do
not interfere with the water heater.
This water heater uses 240 V AC electrical power for operation of the control systems and the electrically
operated components. The removal of the access cover(s) will expose 240 volt wiring. They must only be
removed by a qualified person.
Do not use aerosols, stain removers and household chemicals near the water heater whilst it is
working. Gases from some aerosol sprays, stain removers and household chemicals are corrosive to the
materials used in the heat pump system.
Do not store swimming pool chemicals, household cleaners, etc., near the water heater.
Ensure the air inlet and outlet louvres and air flow are not obstructed in any way at any time.
SAFETY
This water heater is supplied with a thermostat, two over-temperature energy cut-outs and a combination
temperature pressure relief valve. These devices must not be tampered with or removed. The water heater
must not be operated unless each of these devices is fitted and is in working order.
The operation of the over-temperature cut-out on the thermostat indicates a possibly dangerous situation. If
the over-temperature cut-out operates, it must not be reset and the water heater must be serviced by a
qualified person.
If the electrical supply conduit to the water heater is damaged, it must be replaced by a qualified person in
order to avoid a hazard. Phone Rheem Service or their nearest Accredited Service Agent to arrange for an
inspection.
Warning: For continued safety of this water heater it must be installed, operated and maintained in
accordance with the Owner‟s Guide and Installation Instructions.
The Rheem warranty may not cover faults if relief valves or other safety devices are tampered with or
if the installation is not in accordance with these instructions.
typical maximum
temperature from heat
pump operation;
booster temperature
setting;
minimum recommended
stored water temperature
maximum recommended
supply temperature to
bathrooms and ensuites
ABOUT YOUR WATER HEATER
6
OPERATING MODE MONITOR
An operating mode monitor is located on the front of the heat pump module and houses a green and a red
LED. The green LED, marked “NORMAL”, indicates the current operating mode (with the red LED off) of the
heat pump water heater and the red LED, marked “ATTENTION”, may indicate a potential fault mode.
The green LED will emit either a solid glow or a series of flashes,
with a 2 second interval between each series. The green LED
may also emit a series of flashes in conjunction with the red LED
to indicate a particular fault condition with the system.
The red LED will emit either a solid glow or a series of flashes,
with a 2 second interval between each series. A series of flashes
indicates there may be a particular fault condition with the
system. A solid glow or 3 flashes (with the green LED off), or
1 flash (with a solid green LED) does not necessarily mean there
is a fault with the system.
The modes are:
Green LED
Red LED
Operational Modes
solid green
(remains on)
off
Standby mode – water is hot
1 x green
off
Call for heating received – system checks performed
Note: if call for heating received, unit may wait and continue flashing until five minutes
has elapsed after its last operation and until the compressor has cooled
2 x green
off
Circulator commences circulation
4 x green
off
Heat pump operation – compressor and fan running
no green
(remains off)
off
No power at the water heater or to the heat pump or a possible fault condition
Refer to notes below before calling for service
Green LED
Red LED
Indicator or Fault Modes
off
Solid red
(remains on)
Ambient temperature < 0°C Heating unit on
off
3 x red
Evaporator < -3°C Heating unit on
solid green
(remains on)
1 x red
Heating stopped due to insufficient flow rate Heating unit off
Notes
Power must be available at the water heater and to the heat pump for the LEDs to glow or flash.
Solid Red or 3 x Red Flashes (Green LED Off) – If the power supply to the water heater is on and the
green LED is off and the red LED is emitting a solid glow or three (3) flashes, this does not necessarily
mean there may be a fault with the water heater but is indicating the water heater is operating outside of
the heat pump‟s operating range. The heat pump‟s operating range is when the ambient air temperature
is 5°C or higher. Refer to “Heat pump operating range” on page 14 in the “Save A Service Call” section
of this Owner‟s Guide.
1 x Red Flash (Solid Green LED) – If the green LED is emitting a solid glow and the red LED is
flashing a single flash, this does not necessarily mean there may be a fault with the water heater. Refer
to “Red and Green LEDs Are Illuminated” on page 16 in the “Save A Service Call” section of this
Owner‟s Guide.
Other Red Flash Sequences – If the red LED emits a series of flashes other than three (3) flashes
(green LED off) or a single flash (green LED solid glow), there may be a fault with the water heater.
Before phoning to arrange a service inspection due to the red LED flashing or the green LED not
illuminating refer to “Heat Pump Is Not Operating” on page 14, “Green and Red LEDs Are Not
Illuminated On Operating Mode Monitor” on page 15, and “Red LED is Illuminated – Green LED is Off”
on page 15 in the “Save A Service Call” section of this Owner‟s Guide.
ABOUT YOUR WATER HEATER
7
MAINS PRESSURE
The water heater is designed to operate at mains pressure by connecting directly to the mains water supply.
If the mains supply pressure in your area exceeds that shown on page 20, a pressure limiting valve must be
fitted. The supply pressure should be greater than 350 kPa for true mains pressure operation to be achieved.
A minimum water supply pressure of 200 kPa is required to enable the heat pump circulator and heat pump
system to operate effectively.
TIMER CONTROL
A timer can be installed in the electrical circuit to the water heater. The timer must be weatherproof if it is
installed outdoors.
It may be desirable for the water heater not to operate between certain hours, such as during the peak
period when connected to a Time of Use electricity supply due to a more expensive tariff rate applying. A
timer will affect the operating times of both the heat pump circuit and the booster heating unit.
Note: The 551 310 model heat pump water heater is recommended for connection to a minimum 16 hour per
day power supply. If there is a risk of freezing conditions, the electrical supply to the water heater should not
be switched off, otherwise damage could result (refer to “Freeze Protection” on page 4).
TO TURN OFF THE WATER HEATER
If you plan to be away from home for only a few nights, we suggest you leave the water heater switched on.
If it is necessary to turn off the water heater:
Switch off the electrical supply at the main isolating switch to the water heater.
Close the cold water isolation valve at the inlet to the water heater.
Note: If there is a risk of freezing conditions, the electrical supply to the water heater should not be switched
off, otherwise damage could result (refer to “Freeze Protection” on page 4).
TO TURN ON THE WATER HEATER
Open the cold water isolation valve fully on the cold water line to the water heater.
Switch on the electrical supply at the main isolating switch to the water heater.
Check and if required reset the timer, if one is installed.
The heat pump may take up to 30 seconds to 5 minutes to commence operating when the power supply is
switched on. The heat pump will only operate when the water in the storage tank requires heating, the heat
pump compressor is cool and power is available at the water heater.
If the ambient air temperature is below the minimum operating temperature of 5°C and the system calls for
heating, the heat pump will commence operating and after a period of time, heating will switch from the heat
pump to the booster heating unit.
If the ambient air temperature is below 0°C and the system calls for heating, the heat pump will not operate
and the booster heating unit will operate instead.
When the heat pump is operating, the system may switch to the booster heating unit if it detects that the
ambient air temperature is below the minimum operating temperature of 5°C. It may also switch back to heat
pump operation from the booster heating unit if it detects the ambient air temperature has moved back to
within the heat pump‟s operating temperature range.
Note: The heat pump may not turn on after having just completed a heating cycle and more hot water is
drawn from the water heater, or if power was switched off whilst the heat pump was operating. The heat
pump will wait at least 5 minutes, and until the compressor has cooled down and the conditions for start up
are favourable, in order to protect the compressor from damage. This may take up to 20 minutes from the
last heating cycle.
ABOUT YOUR WATER HEATER
8
PRECAUTIONS
Where damage to property can occur in the event of the water heater leaking, the water heater must be
installed in a safe tray. Construction, installation and draining of a safe tray must comply with AS/NZS 3500.4
and all local codes and regulatory authority requirements.
The water heater must be maintained in accordance with the Owner‟s Guide and Installation Instructions.
Refer to “Regular Care” on page 9 and to “Anode Inspection and Replacement” on page 11.
If this water heater is to be used where an uninterrupted hot water supply is necessary for your application or
business you should ensure that you have back up redundancy within the hot water system design. This
should ensure the continuity of hot water supply in the event that this water heater were to become
inoperable for any reason. We recommend you seek advice from your plumber or specifier about your needs
and building back up redundancy into your hot water supply system.
GOING ON HOLIDAYS
If you plan to be away from home for a few nights, we suggest you leave the water heater switched on. If you
plan to be away for a longer period, conserve energy by switching off the isolating switch to the water heater.
It is not advised to switch off the water heater if there is the risk of freeze conditions. Refer to “To Turn Off
The Water Heater” on page 7.
HOW DO I KNOW IF THE WATER HEATER IS INSTALLED CORRECTLY?
Installation requirements are shown on pages 18 to 23. The water heater must be installed:
by a qualified person, and
in accordance with the installation instructions, and
in compliance with Standards AS/NZS 3500.4, AS/NZS 3000 and all local codes and regulatory authority
requirements.
In New Zealand, the installation must also conform with Clause G12 of the New Zealand Building Code.
VICTORIAN CUSTOMERS
Notice to Victorian Customers from the Victorian Plumbing Industry Commission. This water heater must be
installed by a licensed person as required by the Victorian Building Act 1993.
Only a licensed person will give you a Compliance Certificate, showing that the work complies with all the
relevant Standards. Only a licensed person will have insurance protecting their workmanship for 6 years.
Make sure you use a licensed person to install this water heater and ask for your Compliance Certificate.
DOES THE WATER CHEMISTRY AFFECT THE WATER HEATER?
The water heater is suitable for most public water supplies, however some water chemistries may have
detrimental effects on the water heater, its components and fittings. Refer to “Water Supplies” on page 11.
If you are in a known harsh water area or you are not sure of your water chemistry, have your water checked
against the conditions described on pages 11 to 12.
HOW LONG WILL THE WATER HEATER LAST?
The water heater is supported by a manufacturer‟s warranty (refer to page 43). There are a number of
factors that will affect the length of service the water heater will provide. These include but are not limited to
the water chemistry, the water pressure, the water temperature (inlet and outlet) and the water usage
pattern. Refer to “Precautions” on page 8.
ENVIRONMENT
At the end of the service life of the heat pump water heater and prior to the water heater being disposed of, a
person qualified to work with refrigerants must recover the refrigerant from within the sealed system. The
refrigerant must not be vented to atmosphere. Phone Rheem Service or their nearest Accredited Service
Agent to arrange for an inspection.
9
REGULAR CARE
MINOR SIX MONTH MAINTENANCE
It is recommended minor maintenance be performed every six months by the dwelling occupant.
The minor maintenance includes:
Operate the easing lever on the temperature pressure relief valve. It is very important you raise and
lower the lever gently. Refer to “Temperature Pressure Relief Valve” on page 10.
Warning: Exercise care to avoid any splashing of water, as water discharged from the drain line will
be hot. Stand clear of the drain line‟s point of discharge when operating the valve‟s lever.
Operate the easing lever on the expansion control valve (if fitted). It is very important you raise and
lower the lever gently. Refer to “Expansion Control Valve” on page 10.
Check the drain line from the safe tray (if one is installed) is not blocked.
MAJOR FIVE YEAR SERVICE
It is recommended a major five year service be conducted on the water heater. The service must be
conducted by a qualified person. Phone Rheem Service or their nearest Accredited Service Agent.
Note: The five year service and routine replacement of any components, such as the anode and relief
valve(s), are not included in the Rheem warranty. A charge will be made for this work. Only genuine
replacement parts should be used on this water heater.
The major service includes:
Replace the temperature pressure relief valve.
Inspect and flush the expansion control valve (if fitted). If required, replace the valve.
Inspect and if required, replace the anode.
If the anode is not replaced, it should be replaced within three years of this service (refer to “Anode
Inspection and Replacement” on page 11).
Check the electric heating unit for excessive calcium build up or corrosion and replace if necessary.
Check and clean the heat pump module of dust and residue.
Check and inspect the heat pump module for operation.
Visually check the unit for any potential problems.
Inspect all connections.
Check the condensate drain.
Check the drain line from the safe tray (if one is installed) is not blocked.
Note: The water heater may need to be drained during this service. After the completion of the service, the
water heater will take some time to reheat the water. Depending upon the power supply connection, hot
water may not be available until the next day.
HEAT PUMP SYSTEM
It is recommended the evaporator and refrigeration system is checked every five years. In particularly dusty
environments, it may be necessary to have the heat pump system checked and cleaned of dust and residue
on a more regular basis.
REGULAR CARE
10
TEMPERATURE PRESSURE RELIEF VALVE
This valve is near the top of the water heater and is essential for its
safe operation. It is possible for the valve to release a little water
through the drain line during each heating period. This occurs as the
water is heated and expands by approximately 1/50 of its volume.
Continuous leakage of water from the valve and its drain line may
indicate a problem with the water heater (refer to “Temperature
Pressure Relief Valve Running” on page 16).
Warning: Never block the outlet of this valve or its drain line for
any reason.
Operate the easing lever on the temperature pressure relief valve
once every six months. It is very important you raise and lower
the lever gently.
DANGER: Failure to do this may result in the water heater
cylinder failing, or under certain circumstances, exploding.
Warning: Exercise care to avoid any splashing of water, as
water discharged from the drain line will be hot. Stand clear of the
drain line‟s point of discharge when operating the valve‟s lever.
If water does not flow freely from the drain line when the lever is
lifted, then the water heater must be checked. Phone Rheem
Service or their nearest Accredited Service Agent to arrange for an
inspection.
The temperature pressure relief valve should be replaced at
intervals not exceeding 5 years, or more frequently in areas where
there is a high incidence of water deposits (refer to “Water Supplies”
on page 11).
EXPANSION CONTROL VALVE
In many areas, including South Australia, Western Australia and scaling water areas, an expansion control
valve is fitted to the cold water line to the water heater. The expansion control valve may discharge a small
quantity of water from its drain line during the heating period instead of the temperature pressure relief valve
on the water heater.
Operate the easing lever on the expansion control valve once every six months. It is very important you
raise and lower the lever gently. The expansion control valve should be checked for performance or
replaced at intervals not exceeding 5 years, or more frequently in areas where there is a high incidence of
water deposits.
water
heater
drain
line
lift until water
flows from the
drain line –
lower gently
11
WATER SUPPLIES
This water heater must be installed in accordance with this advice to be covered by the Rheem
warranty.
This water heater is manufactured to suit the water conditions of most public reticulated water supplies.
However, there are some known water chemistries which can have detrimental effects on the water heater
and its operation and / or life expectancy. If you are unsure of your water chemistry, you may be able to
obtain information from your local water supply authority. This water heater should only be connected to a
water supply which complies with these guidelines for the Rheem warranty to apply.
CHANGE OF WATER SUPPLY
The changing or alternating from one water supply to another can have a detrimental effect on the operation
and / or life expectation of a number of components in this water heater.
Where there is a changeover from one water supply to another, e.g. a rainwater tank supply, bore water
supply, desalinated water supply, public reticulated water supply or water brought in from another supply,
then water chemistry information should be sought from the supplier or it should be tested to ensure the
water supply meets the requirements given in these guidelines for the Rheem warranty to apply.
ANODE
The vitreous enamel lined cylinder of the water heater is only covered by the Rheem warranty when the total
dissolved solids (TDS) content in the water is less than 2500 mg/L and when the correct colour coded anode
is used. If an incorrect colour coded anode is used in the water heater, any resultant faults will not be
covered by the Rheem warranty. In addition, the use of an incorrect colour coded anode may shorten the life
of the storage tank.
The correct colour coded anode is as shown in the following table:
Total Dissolved Solids
Anode colour code
0 – 40 mg/L
Green
40 – 150 mg/L
Green or Black
150 – 400 mg/L
Black
400 – 600 mg/L
Black or Blue
600 – 2500 mg/L
Blue
2500 mg/L +
Blue (no cylinder warranty)
The changing of anodes must be carried out by a qualified person.
Note: Some water analysis reports may state the conductivity of the water rather than the level of total
dissolved solids. Conductivity, measured in microsiemens per centimetre (µS / cm), is directly proportional to
the TDS content of the water. TDS, in mg / L, is approximately 70% of the conductivity in µS / cm.
ANODE INSPECTION AND REPLACEMENT
The anode installed in your water heater will slowly dissipate whilst protecting the cylinder. The life of the
cylinder may be extended by replacing the anode.
If the anode is not replaced during a five year service (refer to “Major Five Year Service” on page 9) then the
maximum time after installation when the anode should be replaced for this water heater is 8 years.
For water supplies which are either softened, desalinated or where the water supply may alternate between
a water tank and a reticulated public supply or another supply, it is recommended the anode be replaced
within 5 years of installation.
WATER SUPPLIES
12
CAUTION
If the water supply has a TDS greater than 150 mg/L and a green anode has not been changed to a black
anode, or if the TDS is greater than 600 mg/L and the anode has not been changed to a blue anode, there is
the possibility the anode may become overactive and hydrogen gas could accumulate in the top of the water
heater during long periods of no use. In areas where this is likely to occur, the installer should instruct the
householder on how to dissipate the gas safely.
If, under these conditions, the water heater has not been used for two or more weeks the following procedure
should be carried out before using any electrical appliances (automatic washing machines and dishwashers)
which are connected to the hot water supply.
The hydrogen, which is highly flammable, should be vented safely by opening a hot tap and allowing the
water to flow. There should be no smoking or naked flame near the tap whilst it is turned on. Any hydrogen
gas will be dissipated. This is indicated by an unusual spurting of the water from the tap. Once the water runs
freely, any hydrogen in the system will have been released.
SATURATION INDEX
The saturation index (SI) is used as a measure of the water‟s corrosive or scaling properties.
Where the saturation index is less than –1.0, the water is very corrosive and the Rheem warranty does not
apply to the water heater. In a corrosive water supply, the water can attack copper parts and cause them to
fail.
Where the saturation index exceeds +0.40, the water is very scaling and the Rheem warranty does not apply
to the water heater.
Water which is scaling may be treated with a water softening device to reduce the saturation index of the
water.
CHLORIDE AND PH
Where the chloride level exceeds 250 mg/L the Rheem warranty does not apply to the water heater. In a
high chloride water supply, the water can corrode stainless steel parts and cause them to fail.
Where the pH is less than 6.0 the Rheem warranty does not apply to the water heater. pH is a measure of
whether the water is alkaline or acid. In an acidic water supply, the water can attack stainless steel parts and
cause them to fail.
Water with a pH less than 6.0 may be treated to raise the pH. The water supply from a rainwater tank in a
metropolitan area is likely to be corrosive due to the dissolution of atmospheric contaminants.
SUMMARY OF WATER CHEMISTRY ADVICE AFFECTING WARRANTY
The water heater is not suitable for certain water chemistries. Those chemistries are listed below. If the water
heater is connected at any time to a water supply with the following water chemistry, the Rheem warranty will
not cover any resultant faults:
Water Chemistry
Component
Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) > 2500 mg/L
water heater cylinder
Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) not suitable for anode type
water heater cylinder
Saturation Index (SI) < -1.0
water heater
Saturation Index (SI) > +0.4
water heater
Chloride > 250 mg/L
water heater
pH < 6.0
water heater
13
SAVE A SERVICE CALL
Check the items below before making a service call. You will be charged for attending to any condition or
fault that is not related to manufacture or failure of a part.
NOT ENOUGH HOT WATER (OR NO HOT WATER)
Is the electricity switched on?
Inspect the isolating switch marked “HOT WATER” or “WATER HEATER” at the switchboard and the
isolating switch at the water heater and ensure they are turned on.
Check the fuse marked “HOT WATER” or “WATER HEATER” at the switchboard.
Is a timer installed?
If a timer has been installed, ensure sufficient time has been allowed to reheat the storage tank.
Are you using more hot water than you think?
Is one outlet (especially the shower) using more hot water than you think?
Very often it is not realised the amount of hot water used, particularly when showering. Carefully review
the family‟s hot water usage. As you have installed an energy saving appliance, energy saving should
also be practised in the home.
Adjust your water usage pattern to take advantage of maximum energy gains. Have your plumber install
a flow control valve to each shower outlet to reduce water usage.
Heat pump fault
Has the heat pump developed a fault?
The heat pump will not operate and the water heater will switch to
either backup heating mode or booster heating mode. The boost
capacity of the heating unit in backup heating mode is 110 litres and
in booster heating mode is 220 litres.
Refer to “Heat Pump Is Not Operating” on page 14.
Temperature pressure relief valve running
Is the relief valve discharging too much water?
Refer to “Temperature Pressure Relief Valve Running” on page 16.
Water heater size
Do you have the correct size water heater for your requirements?
The sizing guide in the sales literature and on the Rheem website (www.rheem.com.au) suggests
average sizes that may be needed.
WATER NOT HOT ENOUGH
You may find that due to heavy hot water usage the water temperature may be lower than normally
expected, due to insufficient heating time being allowed. You will need to carefully plan your use of the hot
water on such occasions.
WATER TOO HOT
The water heater during heat pump operation and booster heating mode will heat the water to a temperature
of 60°C. If the heat pump tank sensors have developed a particular fault condition, the heat pump will not
operate and the water heater will switch to backup heating to ensure a supply of hot water. The red LED will
show a series of 1 x red flashes (green LED is off).
In backup heating mode, the booster heating unit and its controlling thermostat will operate if heating of the
water is required, regardless of the ambient air temperature. The water heater, during backup heating mode
will heat the water to a temperature of 70°C. The boost capacity of the heating unit in backup heating mode
is 110 litres. When heating is completed the green and red LEDs will be off. The red LED should
recommence to flash a single flash (green LED is off) when the water temperature in the top of the tank
decreases to approximately 62°C.
Phone Rheem Service or their nearest Accredited Service Agent to arrange for an inspection.
SAVE A SERVICE CALL
14
HEAT PUMP IS NOT OPERATING
Power must be available at the water heater and to the heat pump for the LEDs to glow or flash.
If there is power to the water heater and the green LED is off or the red LED is flashing (other than
3 x red flashes with the green LED off, or a solid red glow, or a single red flash with a solid green LED),
this indicates there may be a fault condition with the water heater. The red LED may emit up to
seven (7) flashes in each series of flashes. Refer to “Possible fault condition” on page 14.
Time controlled power supply – no power at the water heater (green and red LEDs are off)
If the water heater is connected to a time controlled power supply, then during periods of no power
supply at the water heater the heat pump and booster heating unit will not operate and the LEDs will be
off.
This is not a fault condition, but a result of no power being available to operate the water heater.
Check the hours of supply from the electricity retailer or the timer settings if one is installed.
The green LED will recommence glowing or flashing when power is available again at the water heater.
Note: If power was cut to the heat pump whilst or within five (5) minutes of it operating, it will wait five (5)
minutes before recommencing to operate when power is restored if heating is required.
Heat pump operating range (3 x red flashes or solid red glow, green LED is off)
The heat pump‟s operating range is when the ambient air temperature is 5°C or higher.
If the ambient air temperature is between 0°C and 5°C and heating is required, the heat pump will
commence operating and after a period of time, heating will switch from the heat pump to the booster
heating unit in booster heating mode (three red flashes, green LED is off). At the completion of this
heating cycle by the booster heating unit (three red flashes), the green LED will glow (standby mode –
water is hot) and the red LED will go out.
If the ambient air temperature drops below 0°C, the red LED will display a solid glow and the green LED
will be off. This will occur whether or not the water heater is up to temperature or the booster heating
unit is heating. If a call for heating is received, the water heater will automatically heat in booster heating
mode. At the completion of this heating cycle by the booster heating unit (solid red glow), the red LED
will continue to display a solid glow and the green LED will remain off.
Note: During the heating cycle in booster heating mode due to a cold ambient air temperature condition,
the heating of the water by the heat pump will recommence (4 x green flashes) and the booster heating
unit will turn off (red LED goes out) if the ambient air temperature increases to back within the heat
pump‟s operating range. Likewise, the water heater will switch to the booster heating unit (three red
flashes or solid red glow, green LED is off) if, during a heat pump heating cycle, the ambient air
temperature decreases to outside of the heat pump‟s operating range.
The water temperature in the upper part of the water heater at the end of a heating cycle will be 60°C.
If the red LED is a emitting a solid glow or 3 flashes (green LED is off) and the ambient temperature is
above 10°C, there may be a fault with the heat pump. Phone Rheem Service or their nearest Accredited
Service Agent to arrange for an inspection.
Possible fault condition
If the heat pump has developed a fault, the heat pump will not operate and the red LED will flash a fault
mode of a series of up to seven (7) flashes. The green LED may also simultaneously flash or display a
solid glow.
There may be a fault condition with the water heater if either:
there is power available at the water heater and the green LED is off, and either
the water heater is not operating outside of the heat pump‟s operating range, i.e. booster
heating unit is not heating the water (normally three red flashes or solid red glow if heating is
occurring) due to a cold ambient air temperature condition, or
the ambient air temperature is not below 0°C (normally solid red glow if ambient air
temperature is below 0°C).
Before phoning to arrange a service inspection due to the green LED being off, refer to “Heat pump
operating range” on page 14.
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