Rheem 441 Series, 441 135NO, 441 170NO 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.
318457 Rev D Issued: 15/11/18
Owner’s Guide
and
Installation Instructions
Gas Domestic Indoor
Water Heater
441 Series
WARNING
Upon completion of the installation and commissioning of the water heater,
leave this guide with the householder or responsible officer.
It’s important to ensure testing of the flue for complete extraction of products
to ensure there are no down draught or spillage back into the house occurs.
DO NOT leave this guide inside of the cover of the water heater, as it may
interfere with the safe operation of the water heater or ignite when the water
heater is turned on.
318457 Rev D Issued: 15/11/18 3
CONTENTS
HOUSEHOLDER – We recommend you read pages 4 to 19.
The other pages are intended for the installer
but may be of interest.
About Your Water Heater ............................................................ 4
Regular Care ................................................................................ 9
Water Supplies ........................................................................... 13
Save A Service Call ................................................................... 17
Installation .................................................................................. 20
Connections – Plumbing .......................................................... 29
Commissioning .......................................................................... 33
Lighting The Water Heater ........................................................ 35
Draining The Water Heater ....................................................... 38
Warranty ..................................................................................... 41
318457 Rev D Issued: 15/11/18 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
The Rheem® water heater model you have
chosen is suitable for indoor installation only.
Water is stored in a vitreous enamel lined steel
cylinder and heated by a gas burner located
under the cylinder. The heat produced by the
burner is transferred to the water through the
base of the cylinder and through the wall of a
flue pipe which passes through the centre of the
cylinder. A flue baffle in this flue ensures the
efficiency of the water heater is correct. The gas
supply to the burner is controlled by the
thermostat so the water is heated to a constant
temperature.
Automatic safety controls are fitted to the water
heater to provide safe and efficient operation.
HOW HOT SHOULD THE WATER BE?
The New Zealand Building Code requires that;
This water heater can satisfy this requirement
provided it is operating and the thermostat
setting is 60°C or higher, including when it is
used as an in-series booster water heater for a
solar water heater.
Maximum thermostat
setting 65°C
Minimum stored water
temperature 60°C
Maximum temperature
to bathrooms and
ensuites 55°C
G12.3.9 A hot water system must be
capable of being controlled to prevent the
growth of legionella bacteria.
ABOUT YOUR WATER HEATER
318457 Rev D Issued: 15/11/18 5
HOTTER WATER INCREASES THE RISK OF SCALD INJURY
This water heater can deliver water at temperatures which can cause scalding.
Always check the delivered water temperature before entering a shower, or filling
a bath or basin, to ensure it will not cause scald injury.
The New Zealand Building Code requires that;
An acceptable method of limiting hot water temperature delivered from storage
water heaters is to install an approved Tempering Valve between the outlet of
the water heater and the sanitary fixture.
TEMPERATURE ADJUSTMENT
The temperature adjusting dial is on the gas
valve, located at the lower front of the water
heater. A setting of ‘6’ will normally maintain
the water temperature at about 60°C. Each
number represents a temperature
difference of approximately 6°C.
To increase the water temperature to 66°C,
turn the gas control knob anticlockwise to a
setting of ‘7’. Refer to “Hotter Water
Increases the Risk of Scald Injury” refer
above.
PIEZO IGNITION
The “Piezo” push button igniter makes
lighting the pilot flame of your water heater
very easy. Simply follow the instructions on
the label attached to the front of the water
heater. There is no need for matches to light
the water heater.
PILOT IGNITER
A permanent pilot flame burns to ignite the
main burner automatically. Heat from the
pilot is absorbed by the water.
G12.3.6 If hot water is provided to sanitary fixtures and sanitary appliances used
for personal hygiene, it must be delivered at a temperature that avoids the
likelihood of scalding.
ABOUT YOUR WATER HEATER
318457 Rev D Issued: 15/11/18 6
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.
SAFETY
This water heater is supplied with a thermostat incorporating an overtemperature cut-out, a combination temperature and pressure relief valve and a
thermocouple incorporating a thermal switch which will activate due to flame rollout caused by a blocked flue or insufficient combustion oxygen.
These devices must not be tampered with, bypassed or removed.
The water heater MUST NOT be operated unless these safety devices are fitted
and working correctly.
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.
Do not store flammable or
combustible materials near the water
heater. Flammable liquids (such as
petrol), newspapers and similar articles
must be kept well away from the water
heater and the draught diverter.
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
become corrosive when drawn into a
flame.
Do not store swimming pool chemicals, household cleaners, etc., near
the water heater.
Do not place anything on top of the water heater or in contact with the draught
diverter. Ensure the draught diverter is not obstructed in any way at any time.
ABOUT YOUR WATER HEATER
318457 Rev D Issued: 15/11/18 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 23, a pressure limiting valve must be fitted. The supply
pressure should be greater than 350 kPa for true mains pressure operation to be
achieved.
PRECAUTIONS
The New Zealand Building Code requires that a water heater in a building;
Be installed in a safe tray.
Be seismically restrained.
Refer to the Acceptable solutions and Verification Methods G12 Water Supplies.
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 14.
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.
TO TURN OFF THE WATER HEATER
If it is necessary to turn off the water heater:
Shut down the gas control (refer to “Close Down Procedure” on page 37).
Close the gas isolation valve at the inlet to the gas control.
Close the cold water isolation valve at the inlet to the water heater.
TO TURN ON THE WATER HEATER
Open the cold water isolation valve fully at the inlet to the water heater.
Open the gas isolation valve fully at the inlet to the gas control.
Light the water heater (refer to “Lighting the Water Heater” on page 35).
GOING ON HOLIDAYS
If you are going on holiday for more than a few days the thermostat can be set
to the “” (pilot) position to conserve energy (refer to point 1 of “Close Down
Procedure” on page 37). If it is necessary to turn off the water heater, refer to “To
Turn Off The Water Heater” (as above).
ABOUT YOUR WATER HEATER
318457 Rev D Issued: 15/11/18 8
HOW DO I KNOW IF THE WATER HEATER IS INSTALLED CORRECTLY?
Installation requirements are shown on pages 20 to 288.
The water heater must be installed:
By a qualified licenced person.
In accordance with Rheem’s installation instructions.
Comply with the requirements of the New Zealand Building Code and
AS/NZS 5601.1 (Gas codes).
Refer to page 20 for further information.
Only a licensed person will give you a Compliance Certificate, showing that the
work complies with all the relevant Standards
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 13.
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 13 to 16.
HOW LONG WILL THE WATER HEATER LAST?
The water heater is supported by a manufacturer’s warranty (refer to page 41).
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 7.
318457 Rev D Issued: 15/11/18 9
REGULAR CARE
WATER HEATER SERVICE
Warning: Servicing of a water heater must only be carried out by qualified
personnel.
For the contact details of your nearest Accredited Service Agent call the
Rheem Customer Service Department on 0800 657 335.
ANNUAL SERVICE
For safe and efficient operation, it is recommended an annual service be
conducted on the water heater by a Rheem Accredited Service Agent.
Note: The annual service and routine replacement of any components, if
required, 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 annual service includes the following actions:
Inspect and flush the temperature pressure relief valve.
Inspect and flush the expansion control valve (if fitted).
Check and if necessary adjust the inlet gas pressure.
Check the piezo igniter, gas control and thermocouple.
Check the operation of and clean the pilot light and main burner.
Visually check the unit for any potential problems.
Check the drain line from the safe tray (if one is installed) is not blocked.
Check all water connections for leaks.
Testing flue for complete extraction of products to ensure there are no down
draught or spillage back into the house. (Refer on page 10 for further details).
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. Hot water may not be available for a while.
REGULAR CARE
318457 Rev D Issued: 15/11/18 10
MAJOR FIVE YEAR SERVICE
It is recommended a major five year service be conducted on the water heater
by a Rheem Accredited Service Agent.
Note: The five year service and routine replacement of any components, such
as the Thermocouple, 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 the following actions:
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 14).
Check and if necessary adjust the inlet gas pressure.
Check the piezo igniter, gas control and thermocouple.
Check the operation of and clean the pilot light and main burner.
Visually check the unit for any potential problems.
Inspect all connections for leaks.
Check the drain line from the safe tray (if one is installed) is not blocked.
Testing flue for complete extraction of products to ensure there are no down
draught or spillage back into the house. (Refer on page 10 for further details).
Commissioning Gas Water Heater (Flueing) in conjunction with
AS/NZS5601.1, Clause 6.3.1 and 6.4.4 for ventilation. Testing flue for
complete extraction of products to ensure there are no down draught
or spillage back into the house.
1. Light burner on water heater
2. Close all windows and doors around the house
3. Turn on any range hoods or extractor fans.
4. By using a smoke pellet under the draught diverter ensure that
the smoke exits the house via the gas flue.
5. In the event of the flue not clearing the products recheck there is
adequate ventilation.
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. Hot water may not be available for a while.
REGULAR CARE
318457 Rev D Issued: 15/11/18 11
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 12.
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” (below).
Inspect all connections for leaks.
Check the drain line from the safe tray (if one is installed) is not blocked.
EXPANSION CONTROL VALVE
A Cold Water Expansion Control Valve (ECV) is fitted to the cold water supply
line to the water heater. During water heating the expansion control valve will
discharge a small quantity of water from its drain line. This is normal, as the water
is heated it expands by approximately 1/50 of its volume increasing the pressure
in the water heater. The expansion control valve relieves this excess pressure
as cold water.
A drain line will be fitted to the outlet of the ECV this directs discharge from the
valve safely to waste.
Continuous leakage of water from the ECV’s drain line may indicate a problem
with the water heater (refer to “Excessive Discharge at Relief Valve Drains” on
page 18).
Warning: For safe operation of the ECV; do not modify the installed drain
line, the drain line must not be blocked or obstructed.
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.
REGULAR CARE
318457 Rev D Issued: 15/11/18 12
TEMPERATURE PRESSURE RELIEF
VALVE
A Temperature and Pressure relief
valve (TPR) is fitted at the top of the
water heater and is essential for the
water heaters safe operation.
A drain line will be fitted to the outlet of
the TPR this directs discharge from the
valve safely to waste.
Continuous leakage of water from the
TPR’s drain line may indicate a problem
with the water heater (refer to
“Excessive Discharge at Relief Valve
Drains” on page 18).
Warning: For safe operation of the
TPR; do not modify the installed drain
line, the drain line must not be blocked
or obstructed.
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.
Warning: Failure to do this may
result in the water heater cylinder
failing.
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. Turn off the water heater (page 7). Phone the
Rheem Service Department 0800 657 335 who can direct you to your nearest
Accredited Service Agent to arrange for an inspection of the water heater.
The TPR 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 13).
water
heater
water heater
drain
line
lift until water flows from the
drain line – lower gently
318457 Rev D Issued: 15/11/18 13
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.
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 water heater cylinder.
The correct colour coded anode must be selected and fitted to the water heater
in accordance with the following advice and the Anode Selection chart (below)
for the Rheem warranty to apply to the water heater cylinder.
The black anode is typically fitted as standard.
Total Dissolved Solids
Anode colour code
0 – 40 mg/L
Green
40 – 600 mg/L
Black
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.
WATER SUPPLIES
318457 Rev D Issued: 15/11/18 14
ANODE INSPECTION AND REPLACEMENT
The anode installed in a vitreous enamel lined steel water heater cylinder 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 10) then the maximum time after installation when the anode
should be replaced for this gas 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.
CAUTION
If the water supply has a TDS less than 150 mg/L and a black anode has not
been changed to a green 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.
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