Rheem AP13731 User Manual

AP13731 (03/05)

FOR YOUR SAFETY!

— Do not store or use gasoline or other

flammable vapors or liquids or other combustible materials in the vicinity of this or any other appliance. To do so may result in an explosion or fire.

— WHAT TO DO IF YOU SMELL GAS

● Do not try to light any appliance.

● Do not touch any electrical switch; do not

use any phone in your building.

● Immediately call your gas supplier from a

neighbor’s phone. Follow the gas supplier’s instructions.

● If you cannot reach your gas supplier, call

the fire department.

● Do not return to your home until authorized

by the gas supplier or fire department.

— Improper installation, adjustment,

alteration, service or maintenance can cause property damage, personal injury, or death. Refer to this manual. Installation and service must be performed by a qualified installer, service agency or the gas supplier.

WARNING: If the information in these instructions is not followed exactly, a fire or explosion may result causing property damage, personal injury or death.

The purpose of this manual is twofold: one, to provide the installer with the basic directions and recommendations for the proper installation and adjustment of the water heater; and two, to the owner–operator, to explain the features, operation, safety precautions, maintenance and troubleshooting of the water heater. This manual also includes a parts list.

It is imperative that all persons who are expected to install, operate or adjust this water heater read the instructions carefully so they may understand how to perform these operations. If you don’t understand these instructions or any terms within it, seek professional advice.

Any questions regarding the operation, maintenance, service or warranty of this water heater should be directed to the seller from whom it was purchased. If additional information is required, refer to the section on If You Need Service

Do not destroy this manual. Please read carefully and keep in a safe place for future reference.

Recognize this symbol as an indication of Important Safety Information!

California Proposition 65 Warning: This product contains chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer, birth defects or other reproductive harm.

Use & Care Manual

With Installation Instructions for the Installer

Printed in Japan

Tankless Water Heater

Warning: This water heater is not suitable

for use in manufactured (mobile) homes!

31-52756

Commercial Indoor and Outdoor Gas

Indoor Water Heater

Outdoor Water Heater

CERTIFIED

Safety Information

Safety Precautions . . . . . . . 3–6

LP Gas Models . . . . . . . . . . . 5

Installation Instructions

Location of Indoor. . . . . . . . . 7

Location of Outdoor . . . . . . . . 8

Water Connections . . . . . 10-11

Gas Supply. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

High Altitude . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

Venting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13-18

Remote Control. . . . . . . . 19-20

Electrical Connection . . . . . . 21

Typical Installation Indoor. . 22

Typical Installation Outdoor 23

Pipe Insulation . . . . . . . . . . . 24

Installation Checklist . . . 24-25

Operating Instructions

Lighting Instructions . . . . . . 26

Water Temperature. . . . . 27, 28

Care and Cleaning

Maintenance. . . . . . . . . . . . . 29

Housekeeping . . . . . . . . 29, 30

Vent Inspection . . . . . . . . . . . 30

Burner Inspection . . . . . . . . 30

Extended Shut-Down . . . . . . 30

Draining . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31

Freeze Protection . . . . . . . . . 31

Troubleshooting Tips

Before You Call

For Service . . . . . . . . . . . 32,33

Customer Service

Parts List . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34

If You Need Service. . . . . . . 36

Inside you will find many helpful hints on how to use and maintain your water heater properly. A little preventive care on your part can save you time and money over the life of your water heater.

You’ll find many answers to common problems in the Troubleshooting Guide. If you review the chart of Troubleshooting Tips first, you may not need to call for service.

READ THIS MANUAL

FOR YOUR RECORDS

Write the model and serial numbers here:

You can find them on a label on the appliance.

Staple sales slip or cancelled check here.

Proof of the original purchase date is needed to obtain service under the warranty.

Your safety and the safety of others are very important. There are many important safety messages in this manual and on your appliance. Always read and obey all safety messages.

This is the safety alert symbol. Recognize this symbol as an indication of Important Safety Information! This symbol alerts you to potential hazards that can kill or hurt you and others.

All safety messages will follow the safety alert symbol and either the word “DANGER”, “WARNING”, “CAUTION” or “NOTICE”.

These words mean:

DANGER

An imminently hazardous situation that will result in death or serious injury.

WARNING

A potentially hazardous situation that could result in death or serious injury and/or damage to property.

CAUTION A potentially hazardous situation that

may result in minor or moderate injury.

Notice:

Attention is called to observe a specified procedure or maintain a specific condition.

READ THE SAFETY INFORMATION

Qualified Installers Only!

Dip Switch Adjustment. . . . 35

Be sure to read and understand the entire Use and Care Manual before attempting to install or operate this water heater. It may save you time and money. Pay particular attention to the Safety Instructions. Failure to follow these warnings could result in serious bodily injury or death. Should you have problems understanding the instructions in this manual, or have any questions, STOP, and get help from a qualified service technician, or the local gas utility.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION READ ALL INSTRUCTIONS BEFORE USING.

Failure to install and properly vent the water heater to the outdoors as outlined in the Venting Section of the Installation Instructions in this manual can result in unsafe operation of the water heater. To avoid the risk of fire, explosion, or asphyxiation from carbon monoxide, never operate this water heater unless it is properly vented and has an adequate air supply for proper operation.

Be sure to inspect the vent outlet on the OUTDOOR water heater, or the vent terminal and the vent system on the INDOOR water heater for proper installation at initial startup; and at least annually thereafter. Refer to the Care and Cleaning section of this manual for more information regarding vent system inspection.

DANGER!

INSTALL AND PROPERLY VENT THE WATER HEATER…

Gasoline, as well as other flammable materials and liquids (adhesives, solvents, paint thinners etc.), and the vapors they produce are extremely dangerous. DO NOT handle, use or store gasoline or other flammable or combustible materials anywhere near or in the vicinity of a water heater or any other appliance. Be sure to read and follow the labels on the water heater, as well as the warnings printed in this manual. Failure to do so can result in property damage, bodily injury or death.

WARNING!

DANGER

FLAMMABLES

Vapors from flammable liquids will explode and catch fire causing death or severe burns.

Do not use or store flammable products such as gasoline, solvents or adhesives in the same room or area near the water heater.

Keep flammable products:

1. far away from heater,

2. in approved containers,

3. tightly closed and

4. out of children's reach.

Installation: Do not install water heater where flammable products will be stored or used unless the main burner flame is at least

Read and follow water heater warnings and instructions. If owners manual is missing, contact the retailer or manufacturer.

Flammable Vapors

Water he ater has a main burner flame. The main burner flame:

1. which c an come on at any time and

2. will ignite flammable vapo rs.

Vapo rs:

1. cannot be seen,

2. are heavier than air,

3. go a long way on the floo r and

4. can be carried from other r ooms to the main burner flame by air currents.

18" above the floor. This will reduce, but not eliminate, the risk of vapors being ignited by the main burner flame.

Time/Temperature Relationship in Scalds

Water Temperature Time To Produce a Serious Burn

120°F (49°C) More than 5 minutes

125°F (52°C) 11/2 to 2 minutes

130°F (54°C) About 30 seconds

135°F (57°C) About 10 seconds

140°F (60°C) Less than 5 seconds

145°F (63°C) Less than 3 seconds

150°F (66°C) About 11/2 seconds

155°F (68°C) About 1 second

Table courtesy of Shriners Burn Institute

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

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

Maximum water temperature occurs while burner is on. To find water temperature being delivered, turn on a hot water faucet and place a thermometer in the water stream and read the thermometer. (See page 27 & 28 for more details.)

The temperature of the water at the outlet of the water heater can be regulated by setting the temperature on Remote Control. The remote control was set at 100°F (38°C) before it was shipped from the factory.

The illustration to the bottom left illustrates the Remote Control and how to adjust the water temperature.

Notice: The factory setting allows operating temperatures between 100°F (38°C) and 120°F (49°C). Temperatures of up to 180°F (82°C) can be achieved with the MAIN (UMC-117) remote control and a dip switch adjustment. Only qualified service personnel should perform this adjustment. Only factory authorized remote control(s) should be used.

Notice: When this water heater is supplying general purpose hot water requirements for use by individuals, a thermostatically controlled mixing valve for reducing point of use water temperature is recommended to reduce the risk of scald injury. Contact a licensed plumber or the local plumbing authority for further information.

DANGER!

WATER TEMPERATURE SETTING

Safety and energy conservation are factors to be considered when selecting the water temperature setting of a water heater’s remote control. Water temperatures above 125°F (52°C) can cause severe burns or death from scalding. Be sure to read and follow the warnings outlined on the label pictured below.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION READ ALL INSTRUCTIONS BEFORE USING.

* Temperatures above 120°F (49°C) can be achieved by adjusting the dip switch. See page 35 for dip switch adjustment.

Notice:

Display shows °F only.

DANGER

HOT

BURN

Water temperature over 125°F can cause severe burns instantly or death from scalds.

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

See instruction manual before setting temperature at water heater.

Feel water before bathing or showering.

Temperature limiting valves are available, see manual.

Higher (Hotter) Lower (Cooler)

100 102 104 106 108 110 112 114 116 118 120* 125 130 135 140 150 160 170 180 °F

38 39 40 41 42 43 44 46 47 48 49* 52 54 57 60 66 71 77 82 °C

PRIORITY

°F

POWER

ON/OFF

Both LP and natural gas have an odorant added to aid in detecting a gas leak. Some people may not physically be able to smell or recognize this odorant. If you are unsure or unfamiliar with the smell of LP or natural gas, ask the gas supplier. Other conditions, such as “odorant fade”, which causes the odorant to diminish in intensity, can also hide or camouflage a gas leak.

DANGER!

NATURAL GAS AND LIQUEFIED PETROLEUM MODELS

● Water heaters utilizing LP gas are

different from natural gas models. A natural gas water heater will not function safely on LP gas and vice versa.

● No attempt should ever be made to

convert the water heater from natural gas to LP gas. To avoid possible equipment damage, personal injury or fire, do not connect the water heater to a fuel type not in accordance with the unit data plate; propane for propane units and natural gas for natural gas units. These units are not certified for any other fuel type.

● LP appliances should not be installed

below grade (for example, in a basement) if such installation is prohibited by federal, state and/or local laws, rules, regulations or customs.

● Propane or LP gas must be used with

great caution. It is heavier than air and will collect first in lower areas making it hard to detect at nose level.

● Before attempting to light the water

heater, make sure to look and smell for gas leaks. Use a soapy solution to check all gas fittings and connections. Bubbling at a connection indicates a leak that must be corrected. When smelling to detect a gas leak, be sure to sniff near the floor also.

● Gas detectors are recommended in LP

and natural gas applications and their installation should be in accordance with the detector manufacturer’s recommendations and/or local laws, rules, regulations or customs.

● It is recommended that more than one

method, such as soapy solution, gas detectors, etc., be used to detect leaks in gas applications.

Notice: If a gas leak is present or suspected:

● Do not attempt to find the cause yourself.

● Do not

try to light any appliance.

● Do not

touch any electrical switch.

● Do not

use any phone in your building.

● Leave the building immediately and

make sure your family and pets leave also.

● Leave the doors open for ventilation and

contact the gas supplier, a qualified service agency or the fire department.

● Stay away from the building until the

service call has been made, the leak is corrected and a qualified agency has determined the area to be safe.

Have the installer show you the location of the gas shut-off valve and how to shut it off if necessary. Turn off the manual shut-off valve if the water heater has been subjected to overheating, fire, flood, physical damage or if the gas supply fails to shut off.

● Read this manual entirely before

installing or operating the water heater.

● Use this appliance only for its intended

purpose as described in this Use and Care Manual.

● Be sure your appliance is properly

installed in accordance with local codes and the provided installation instructions.

● Do not attempt to repair or replace any

part of your water heater unless it is specifically recommended in this manual. All other servicing should be referred to a qualified technician.

SAFETY PRECAUTIONS

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION READ ALL INSTRUCTIONS BEFORE USING.

WARNING!

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

FOR INSTALLATIONS IN THE STATE OF CALIFORNIA

California Law requires that residential water heaters must be braced, anchored or strapped to resist falling or horizontal displacement due to earthquake motions. For residential water heaters up to 52 gallon capacity, a brochure with generic earthquake bracing instructions can be obtained from: Office of the State Architect, 1102 Q Street, Suite 5100, Sacramento, CA 95814 or you may call 916-445-8100 or ask a water heater dealer.

However, applicable local codes shall govern installation. For residential water heaters of a capacity greater than 52 gallons or tankless-style, consult the local building jurisdiction code for acceptable bracing procedures.

READ AND FOLLOW THIS SAFETY INFORMATION CAREFULLY.

SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS

Installing the (INDOOR) water heater :

This water heater must be installed in accordance with these instructions, local codes, utility company requirements, and/or in the absence of local codes, use the latest edition of the American National Standard/National Fuel Gas Code. A copy can be purchased from either the American Gas Association, 400 North Capitol Street Northwest, Washington, DC 20001 as ANSI standard Z223.1 or National Fire Protection Association, 1 Batterymarch Park, Quincy, MA 02269 as NFPA 54. In Canada, the latest edition of the CSA B149.1 Natural Gas and Propane Installation, and the Canadian Electrical Code, CSA C22.1 Part 1, in the absence of local codes.

Location of INDOOR Water Heater

The water heater should not be located in an area where leakage of the heat exchanger or connections will result in damage to the area adjacent to it or to lower floors of the structure.

When such areas cannot be avoided it is recommended that a suitable catch pan, adequately drained, must be installed under the water heater.

The pan must not restrict combustion air flow.

A gas fired water heater or any other appliance should not be installed in a space where liquids which give off flammable vapors are to be used or stored. Such liquids include gasoline, LP gas (butane or propane), paint or adhesives and their thinners, solvents or removers.

Because of natural air movement in a room or other enclosed space, flammable vapors can be carried some distance from where their liquids are being used or stored. The open flame of the water heater’s main burner can ignite these vapors causing an explosion or fire which may result in severe burns, death or property damage.

The water heater must be located so it is not subject to physical damage, for example, by moving vehicles, area flooding, etc.

If the water heater is installed in a garage, it should be installed so that the direct ignition system and main burner are no less than 18 inches (45 cm) above the garage floor.

Raising the gas fired water heater will reduce BUT NOT eliminate the possibility of lighting the vapor of any flammable liquids which may be improperly stored or accidentally spilled.

● The water heater should be installed as

close as practical to the vent termination to minimize vent length and the number of elbows required for venting.

● The water heater should be installed with

the proper venting materials and termination suitable for Category III venting.

● Failure to install and properly vent the

water heater to the outdoors as outlined in the Venting Section of this manual can result in unsafe operation.

● Long hot water lines should be insulated to

conserve water and energy.

● The water heater and water lines should

be protected from exposure to freezing temperatures.

● Do not install the water heater in

bathrooms, bedrooms, any occupied rooms normally kept closed, or in outdoor areas.

● Do not install the water heater in small,

poorly ventilated rooms, or in air tight rooms with air-conditioning.

● Do not install water heater where subject

to vibrations.

● Do not install the water heater in

Recreational Vehicles, Mobile Homes, Boats and other Watercrafts.

● Do not install the water heater near vents

for heating or cooling. A minimum of 4 feet (1.2 m) should be maintained.

● Minimum clearance from combustible

and non-combustible construction is 1/2” (1.3 cm) sides, 0” rear (with support bracket); 12” (30 cm) from the bottom; 12” (30 cm) from the front of the water heater; and 12” (30 cm) from the top (24” (61 cm) from front and top is recommended for servicing purposes). Maintain a minimum clearance of 2” (5 cm) around the vent pipe to combustible or non-combustible construction. If the clearances stated on the Instruction/Warning Label, located on the front panel of the heater differ, install the water heater according to the clearances stated on the label.

WARNING: Combustible construction refers to adjacent walls and ceilings and should not be confused with combustible or flammable products and materials. Combustible and/or flammable products and materials should never be stored in the vicinity of this or any gas appliance.

Minimum Clearance from

Combustible and

Non-Combustible

Construction.

WARNING: Follow vent manufacturers instructionwhile installing vent. If required, provide additional clearances from vent to combustibles per vent manufacturers instruction.

min. 1/2 "

(1.3 cm)

Top = 12"(30 cm) Vent = 2" Front = 12"(30 cm)

* (with support bracket)

min. 2"

(5 cm)

min. 2"

(5 cm)(5 cm)

min. 12" (24" (60 cm) minimum is recommended for service)

Back = 0" * Side = 1/2" Bottom = 12"

2" (5 cm) min

min. 1/2 "

(1.3 cm)

(30 cm)

(1.3 cm)

(30 cm)

3" (8 cm) min

2" (5 cm) min

Vent Pipe

Installing the (OUTDOOR) water heater:

Location of the OUTDOOR water heater

This water heater is for OUTDOOR installation ONLY!

This water

heater is an outdoor model and must be mounted vertically. It must not be installed indoors or in a confined space.

The water heater should be installed close to the most frequently used outlet and its position chosen with safety and service in mind.

Make sure people (particular children, disabled, and elderly) will not touch the hot water outlet or the flue terminal. The flue terminal and air inlet must be clear of obstruction and shrubbery.

The water heater should not be located in an area where leakage of the heat exchanger or connections will result in damage to the area adjacent to it or to lower floors of the structure.

The water heater must be located so it is not subject to physical damage, for example, by moving vehicles, area flooding, etc.

● The water heater should be installed

vertically with the water, gas, and power connections on the underside pointing toward the ground.

● Failure to properly install the water

heater outdoors as outlined in this manual can result in unsafe operation.

● Hot and cold water lines should be

insulated to conserve water and energy.

● The water heater and water lines should

be protected from exposure to freezing temperatures.

● Do not install water heater where

subject to vibrations.

● Do not install the water heater in

Recreational Vehicles, Mobile Homes, Boats and other Watercrafts.

● Do not install the water heater near

vents for heating or cooling. A minimum of 4 feet should be maintained.

● Minimum clearance from combustible

and noncombustible construction is 1/2” (1.3 cm) sides, 0” rear (with support bracket); 12” (30 cm) from the bottom; 12” (30 cm) from the front of the water heater; and 12” (30 cm) from the top (24” (61 cm) from front and top is recommended for servicing purposes). If the clearances stated on the Instruction/Warning Label, located on the front panel of the heater differ, install the water heater according to the clearances stated on the label.

Minimum Clearance from

Combustible and

Non-Combustible

Construction.

min.

1/2 "

(1.3 cm)

Top = 12" (30 cm) Front = 12" (30 cm)

Back = 0" (with support bracket) Side = 1/2" (1.3 cm) Bottom = 12" (30 cm)

(1.3 cm)

min. 12" (30 cm) (24" (61 cm) minimum is recommended for service)

min. 1/2 "

Installing the water heater:

Proper operation of the water heater requires air for combustion and ventilation. Provisions for combustion and ventilation air must comply with referenced codes and standards.

Combustion and Ventilation Air (Indoor Water Heater Only)

NOTICE: If the water heater is installed in an unconfined space within a building of conventional frame, masonry or metal construction, infiltration air is normally adequate for proper combustion and ventilation. If the water heater is installed in a confined space, provisions for combustion and ventilation air must be made.

A confined space is one having a volume of less than 50 cubic feet (1.4 cubic meters) per 1000 Btuh of the aggregate input of all appliances within that space.

The air must be supplied through two permanent openings of equal area. One is to be located within 12” (30 cm) above the floor and the other is to be located within 12” (30 cm) below the ceiling.

The minimum net free area of each opening must not be less than one square inch (6.5 sq cm) per 1000 Btuh of the total input rating of all the appliances in the enclosure (but not less than 100 square inches (650 cm2),) if each opening communicates with other unconfined areas inside the building.

Buildings of unusually tight construction shall have the combustion and ventilation air supplied from outdoors, or a freely

ventilated attic or crawl space.

If air is supplied from outdoors, directly or through vertical ducts, there must be two openings located as specified above and each must have a minimum net free area of not less than one square inch (6.5 sq cm) per 4000 Btuh of the total input rating of all the appliances in the enclosure.

If horizontal ducts are used to communicate with the outdoors, each opening must have a minimum net free area of not less than one square inch (6.5 sq cm) per 2000 Btuh of the total input rating of all the appliances in the enclosure. If ducts are used, the minimum dimensions of rectangular air ducts shall not be less than 3” (7.6 cm).

NOTICE: If the duct openings which supply combustion and ventilation air are to be covered with a protective screen or grill, the net free area (openings in the material) of the covering material must be used in determining the size of the openings. Protective screening for the openings MUST NOT be smaller than 1/4” (0.64 cm) mesh to prevent clogging by lint or other debris.

Corrosive Atmospheres

The air in beauty shops, dry cleaning establishments, photo processing labs, and storage areas for liquid and powdered bleaches or swimming pool chemicals often contain such halogenated hydrocarbons.

An air supply containing halogenated hydrocarbons may be safe to breathe, but when it passes through a gas flame corrosive elements are released that will shorten the life of any gas burning appliance.

Propellants from common spray cans or gas leaks from A/C and refrigeration equipment are highly corrosive after passing through a flame.

The water heater warranty is voided when failure of the heater is due to operation in a corrosive atmosphere.

NOTICE: The water heater should not be installed near an air supply containing halogenated hydrocarbons.

Inspect Shipment

Inspect the water heater for possible damage. Check the markings on the rating plate of the water heater to be certain the type of gas supplied corresponds to the water heater requirements. Verify all included parts are present (see below).

DANGER: OUTDOOR water heaters must not be installed indoors or in a confined space. Install outdoor water heaters outdoors only.

Air Openings

Min. 200 Sq. In.

)

(1290 cm

Min. 3" (7.6 cm)

PRIORITY

°F

POWER

ON/OFF

Wood Screw x 5pcs.

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detimiL

ytnarraW

AICREMMOC

SRETAEHRETAW

SSELKNATLAICREMMOC

SRETAEHRETAWSAG

DNAREGNAHCXETAEHRAEY3AHTIW

YTNARRAWDETIMILSTRAPRAEY1

)50/30(1-78431PA

Warranty

Remote Control

Assembly Kit

Washer x 4 pcs.

Use & Care Manual

With Installation Instructions for the Installer

Residential Gas

Tankless

Water Heaters

Warning: This waterheateris not suitable for

use in manufactured (mobile) homes!

The purpose of this manual is twofold: one, to provide the installerwith the basic directions and recommendations forthe properinstallation and adjustment of the waterheater; and two, to the owner–operator, to explain the features, operation, safety precautions, maintenance and troubleshooting of the waterheater. This manual also includes a parts list.

It is imperative that all persons who are expected to install, operate or adjust this waterheaterread the instructions carefully so they may understand how to perform these operations. If you don’t understand these instructions orany terms within it, seek professional advice.

Any questions regarding the operation, maintenance, service or warranty of this waterheatershould be directed to the sellerfrom whom it was purchased. If additional information is required, referto the section on How to Obtain Service Assistance.

Do not destroy this manual. Please read carefully and keep in a safe place forfuture reference.

Recognize this symbol as an indication of Important Safety

Information!

California Proposition 65 Warning:This product contains

chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer, birth defects orotherreproductive harm.

WARNING: If the information in these instructions is not followed exactly,

a fire orexplosion may result causing property damage, personal injury ordeath.

FOR YOUR SAFETY!

● If you cannot reach yourgas supplier, call

—Do not store or use gasoline or other

the fire department. flammable vapors or liquids or other combustible materials in the vicinity of this or

● Do not return to yourhome until authorized

any otherappliance. To do so may result in an

by the gas supplierorfire department. explosion orfire.

—Improperinstallation, adjustment,

alteration, service ormaintenance can cause

—WHATTO DO IFYOU SMELL GAS

property damage, personal injury, ordeath .

●Do not try to light any appliance.

Referto this manual. Installation and service

● Do not touch any electrical switch; do not

must be performed by a qualified installer,

use any phone in yourbuilding.

service agency orthe gas supplier.

● Immediately call yourgas supplierfrom a

neighbor’s phone. Follow the gas supplier’s instructions.

Printed in USA

Tankless Unit

Use & Care Manual

Manual Appliance

Gas Shut-off Valve

Water Supply Connections

IMPORTANT: Do not apply heat to the HOT or COLD water connections. If sweat connections are used, sweat tubing to adapter before fitting adapter to the water connections on heater. Any heat applied to the water supply fittings will permanently damage the internal components of the water heater.

Mounting the Water Heater

Make sure the location of the appliance allows for easy access and operation.

Wall studs should be utilized when mounting the water heater to the wall. Alternately, a suitable piece of wood may be placed inside or outside of the wall to span the distance between the wall studs. Fasten the water heater mounting brackets to the wood.

In case of dry wall or concrete wall use dry wall anchors or lag bolts.

The water heater requires 120VAC/60Hz. Have a receptacle with ground terminal near the water heater. The length of the power supply cord is 10 feet (3 m), (Indoor water heater only.)

Install a wood screw for the upper bracket with a clearance of 1/8” (.32 cm) between the wall and the screw head. Hang the center of the upper bracket on the screw.

Using a wood screw and a washer, affix the lower bracket to the wall (Left and Right). Repeat to affix the top bracket.

The brackets can be adjusted to change the distance between the back of the appliance and the wall within the range of 3/8” (.95 cm) to 1½” (3.8 cm).

Loosen the adjustment screws of both the top and the bottom brackets to adjust the distance. (See diagram below)

Plumbing should be carried out by a qualified plumber in accordance with local codes.

Use approved plumbing materials only.

The diameter of the pipe lines should be a minimum of 3/4”.

To conserve energy and to prevent freezing, insulate both cold and hot water supply lines. DO NOT cover the drain or pressure relief valve.

To ensure proper operation of the water heater, the following water pressure guidelines should be followed:

● Operation of the water heater requires

the minimum water pressure of 14 psi (97 kPa) and a minimum water flow rate of 0.66 gpm (2.5 lpm).

● A water pressure of 40 psi (276 kPa) is

required to achieve maximum flow rate.

● To maintain proper performance, ensure

sufficient water supply pressure. The Required Water Pressure = Min. Operating Water Pressure (14 psi) (97 kPa) + Pipe Pressure Loss + Faucet and Shower Pressure Loss + Safety Margin (more than 5 psi) (34 kPa).

● To supply hot water to upper floors,

additional water pressure (0.44 psi/ft) (10 kPa/m) must be ensured. The measurement should be calculated by the distance between the water inlet of the water heater (ground level) to the hot water faucet (upper floor level).

● Well water systems should be set to

ensure a minimum system pressure of 40 psi (276 kPa).

● When the water is supplied from a

water supply tank, the height of the tank and the diameter of the pipes and their relation to water pressure, should be taken into consideration. Gravity

water pressure is not recommended.

Notice: If the water flow resistance of a

shower head is too high, the burner in the water heater will fail to ignite. Keep the shower head clean from debris that could cause additional pressure drop.

Notice: If using mixing valves on the outlet, choose one which prevents cold water pressure from overcoming hot water line pressure.

Notice: If multiple water heaters are installed in a manifold system, the water piping must be in “Parallel”. A water pressure of 40 psi (276 kPa) is recommended for each water heater for proper operation of the water heaters.

CAUTION: This water heater must only be used with the following water supply system conditions:

● With clean, potable water

free of corrosive chemicals, sand, dirt, or other contaminates.

● With inlet water

temperatures above 32°F (0°C), but not exceeding 140°F (60°C).

● Free of lime and scale

deposits.

● DO NOT reverse the hot

and cold water connections. The water heater will not operate.

CAUTION: Reinforcement of the wall is required in case the wall is not strong enough to hold the appliance.

Upper Bracket

Washer

Wood Screw

Washer

Wood Screw

Lower Bracket

1/8" (.32 cm)

Clearance

Wood Screw

Washer

TOP

Adjustment Screws

Bracket

Adjustment Screws

BOTTOM

Installing the water heater:

Relief Valve

A new pressure relief valve, complying with the Standard for Relief Valves and Automatic Gas Shut-Off Devices for Hot Water Supply Systems, ANSI Z21.22/ CSA 4.4, must be installed at the hot water outlet connection of the water heater at the time of installation. Local codes shall govern the installation of relief valves.

For safe operation of the water heater, be sure that:

● The pressure rating of the relief valve

must not exceed 150 psi (1034 kPa), the maximum working pressure of the water heater as marked on the rating plate.

● The BTUH rating of the relief valve

must equal or exceed the BTUH input of the water heater as marked on its rating plate.

● No valve of any type should be

installed between the relief valve and the water heater

● Discharge from the relief valve should

be piped to a suitable drain to eliminate potential water damage. Piping used should be of a type approved for the distribution of hot water.

● Hot and cold water lines should be

insulated up to the water heater. Refer to page 24 for details.

● The discharge line must be NO

SMALLER than the outlet of the relief valve and must pitch downward to allow complete drainage (by gravity) of the relief valve and discharge line.

● The end of the discharge line should not

be threaded or concealed and should be protected from freezing. No valve of any type, restriction or reducer coupling should be installed in the discharge line.

Notice: Local codes govern the installation of relief valves. If local codes require that a temperature and pressure relief valve should be installed the manufacturer recommends a type 40XL Watts T&P relief valve or an equivalent model be used.

Notice: Manual operation of relief valves should be performed at least once a year. Turn off the electrical power and gas shutoff valve. Lift and release lever on the relief valve and check the manual operation of the relief valve. You should take precaution to avoid contact with the hot water coming out of the relief valve and to prevent water damage.

Notice: If the relief valve on the system discharges periodically, a problem exists and service to the water system is required.

Water Supply Connections Continued

Install a shutoff valve near the inlet of the water heater for service and draining purposes.

It is not recommended to use pipes with smaller diameters than the water supply connection of the water heater.

Before connecting the water supply pipe to the water heater, open the shutoff valve and clean out sand, debris, air, caulking material, etc. inside the pipe. Connect to the water inlet, then check water flow. Close the shutoff valve and clean the water filter.

Be sure to connect the water inlet and the hot water outlet as shown on the water heater. If reversed, the water heater will not function.

Installation of unions or flexible copper connections are recommended on the HOT and COLD water lines, so that the water heater may disconnect easily for servicing if necessary.

Install a Check Valve between the water heater and the water shutoff valve. (See illustration the top left).

The following should be addressed in regards to the HOT WATER OUTLET:

● Connections between the water heater

and point(s) of use should be as short and direct as possible.

● DO NOT use lead or plastic pipe.

● To conserve energy and minimize heat

loss, insulation of hot water piping is recommended. (See Hot and Cold Pipe Insulation Installation on page 24).

Notice: The flow rate of hot water may vary when more than two faucets (appliances, fixtures, etc.) are being used simultaneously.

Notice: The pipes MUST be completely drainable. If the hot water faucets are located at a point higher than the water heater, place a drain valve at the lowest point (see diagram to the left).

Union

Pressure Relief Valve

Water

Shutoff

Valve

Cold

Water

Supply

Inlet

Hot Water

Supply

Outlet

Relief Valve Discharge Line

Notice: The above illustrates a pressure only relief valve. If local codes require a combination temperature and pressure relief valve be installed, an extension piece may be needed. (Refer to page 22 or 23 for example of extension piece for T&P relief valve installation.) The T&P relief valve probe should not be directly in the flow path of the water.

Notice: Use only teflon tape on cold and hot water connections and lines.

Water Filter

Clean the Water Filter

Water Inlet

Check Valve

Nipple

Air Relief Va lv e

Drain Valve

Wat er

Hot

Water

Tap

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Rheem AP13731 User Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual