Rheem Loline 271, Loline 325, Loline 410 Owner's Manual And Installation Instructions
WARNING: Plumber – Be Aware
Use copper pipe ONLY. Plastic pipe MUST NOT be used.
It is a requirement of a solar water heater installation that all pipe work be in copper
and not plastic, due to the effects of high water temperatures and pressures.
Owner’s Guide
and
Installation Instructions
Solar Loline Water Heater
This water heater must be installed and serviced by a qualified person.
Please leave this guide with the householder.
WARNING: Plumber – Be Aware
The solar hot and solar cold pipes between the solar storage tank and the solar collectors MUST BE
of copper. All compression fittings must use brass or copper olives.
The full length of the solar hot and solar cold pipes MUST BE insulated.
The insulation must:
be of a closed cell type or equivalent, suitable for a solar water heating application and capable
of withstanding the temperature of the water generated by the solar collectors under stagnation
conditions
The specification of the chosen insulation material should be checked with the insulation
manufacturer prior to installation as different materials may vary in temperature tolerance.
be at least 13 mm thick, however thicker insulation may be required to comply with the
requirements of AS/NZS 3500.4
be weatherproof and UV resistant if exposed
extend through any penetrations in the eaves, ceiling and roof
cover valves and fittings in the solar hot and solar cold pipe work
be fitted up to and cover the connections on both the solar storage tank and the solar collectors.
Note: Failure to observe these requirements also increases the risk of freeze damage.
Uninsulated pipe work, including concealed in cavities and roof spaces or where it may be in contact
with a metal roof, may lead to freeze damage. There is NO WARRANTY for freeze damage if the solar
hot and solar cold pipes are not insulated in accordance with the installation instructions.
The insulation is essential to assist in providing freeze protection, will offer corrosion protection to a
metal roof against water runoff over the copper pipes, assist in avoiding accidental contact with the
solar pipe work as very high temperature water can flow from the solar collectors to the solar storage
tank, and also reduce pipe heat losses.
The insulated copper pipe work:
should be fixed at suitable locations to prevent or reduce the possibility of noise from water
hammer and vibration from occurring
is not to be placed or installed in contact with plastic pipe work.
Likewise, plastic pipe work is not to be placed or installed in contact with the insulated copper
pipe work after the collector circuit is installed.
Plastic pipe MUST NOT be used, as it will not withstand the temperature and pressure of the water
generated by the solar collectors under stagnation conditions. Extremely high water temperatures of
up to 150°C for non-selective surface collectors and greater than 200°C for selective surface collectors
and high water pressures exceeding 1000 kPa can be generated under these conditions. Plastic pipe
cannot withstand these temperatures and pressures and MUST NOT be used. Failure of plastic pipe
can lead to the release of high temperature water and cause severe water damage and flooding.
A non-return valve MUST BE installed on the cold water line to the solar storage tank AFTER the cold
water branch to a temperature limiting device. Due to the higher water temperatures generated under
certain conditions in the solar collectors of this solar water heater, an additional effective back-flow
prevention device also should be used as an extra safeguard. Valve manufacturer RMC recommends
Dual Check Valve model N7155, as being suitable for this application.
Plumber: It is important to refer to and read in full the complete
“Warning: Plumber – Be Aware” statement commencing on page 38.
This water heater may be protected by one or more patents or registered designs in the name of
®
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.
PATENTS
Rheem Australia Pty Ltd.
TRADE MARKS
CONTENTS
HOUSEHOLDER – We recommend you read pages 4 to 22.
The other pages are intended for the installer but may be of interest.
About Your Water Heater ............................................................................................................ 4
Regular Care .............................................................................................................................. 13
Water Supplies ........................................................................................................................... 16
Save A Service Call ................................................................................................................... 19
Installation – System ................................................................................................................. 23
Installation – Solar Storage Tank ............................................................................................. 25
Installation – Solar Control Unit ............................................................................................... 32
Installation – Solar Collectors .................................................................................................. 35
Connections – Plumbing .......................................................................................................... 40
Connections – Electrical ........................................................................................................... 43
Commissioning .......................................................................................................................... 46
Draining The Solar Collectors .................................................................................................. 49
Draining The Water Heater ....................................................................................................... 49
Warranty ..................................................................................................................................... 51
3
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® Loline® open circuit solar water heater system is designed for the
solar collectors to be roof mounted and the vitreous enamel lined solar storage
tank to be remotely installed at ground of floor level. The solar storage tank is
suitable for either outdoor or indoor installation and can be installed with Rheem
NPT 200, HBT 200 / LCS or TBT 200 / CSA2007 solar collectors. This single
element model solar storage tank has only one front cover, located at the midpoint
of the tank.
The system has a level of freeze protection designed to guard the system against
damage from freeze conditions (refer to “Freeze Protection” on page 10). The
system must be installed with the full length of the solar hot and solar cold pipes
insulated and power must be available at the solar control unit to offer protection
against freeze damage (refer to “Warning: Plumber – Be Aware” on page 38).
Freeze conditions occur below 6°C.
A system has NO WARRANTY for freeze damage when installed above
400 metres altitude or if the solar hot and solar cold pipes are not insulated in
accordance with the installation instructions or if power is not available at the solar
control unit (refer to “Terms of the Rheem Warranty” on page 51).
Note: The Rheem warranty against freeze damage applies only to systems
installed in Australia.
This water heater is designed to be installed as an electric boosted solar water heater with its booster heating
unit connected to a power supply, however it may be installed with an in-series continuous flow or storage
booster.
If this water heater is installed with an in-series booster, then the electric booster heating unit will not be
connected to a power supply and the references to the electric booster heating unit, thermostat and boosting
controls in this Guide will not be applicable to the installation. For information relating to the function and
operation of the in-series booster, refer to the Owners Guide and Installation Instructions supplied with the
booster water heater.
Automatic safety controls are fitted to the water heater to provide safe and efficient operation.
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 25, 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 solar circulator and collector circuit
system to operate effectively.
SOLAR OPERATION
The operation of the circulator is controlled by the combination of:
the hot sensor located at the outlet of the solar collectors.
The hot sensor measures the water temperature at the outlet of the solar collectors.
the cold sensor located at the solar cold outlet at the base of the solar storage tank
The cold sensor measures the water temperature at the bottom of the solar storage tank.
the differential controller located in the solar control unit.
4
ABOUT YOUR WATER HEATER
Normal operation
As the sun heats the water in the solar collectors, the increase in temperature activates the circulator. The
circulator switches on whenever the water in the solar collectors is hotter than the water in the solar storage
tank. The circulator moves the hotter water from the solar collectors through the solar hot pipe to the solar
storage tank and the cooler water from the solar storage tank is circulated to the solar collectors via the solar
cold pipe to be heated by the sun’s energy.
This process continues whilst solar energy is available and the water in the solar storage tank requires heating.
The circulator will deactivate when the water temperature in the solar storage tank is around 70°C to 75°C.
The water heater will then enter Over-temperature operation.
During normal operation if the amount of solar energy available reduces, such as when the sky becomes very
cloudy or the sun becomes lower in the sky in the late afternoon, and the water no longer gains useable heat
from the solar collectors, the circulator will deactivate. The water heater will then enter standby mode.
Over-temperature operation
The purpose of the Over-temperature operation is to reduce the amount of overheating or ‘stagnation’ of water
in the solar collectors. When the water in the solar storage tank has reached 70°C to 75°C and the circulator
has deactivated, the solar collectors will continue to gain heat while solar energy is still available.
If the water in the solar collectors stagnates and its temperature becomes very high, the circulator will activate
for a short period to transfer this extra energy to the solar storage tank. The circulator will deactivate when the
water temperature in the solar collectors decreases. This process will either repeat for a maximum of eight
cycles or until the water temperature in the solar storage tank reaches around 75°C to 80°C or the hot sensor
does not sense another increase in water temperature to a stagnation level after a cycle is completed, i.e. the
solar energy available reduces.
Night Time Cooling operation
The purpose of Night Time Cooling operation is to rid the solar storage tank of excess solar energy gained by
Over-temperature operation during that day. The desired water temperature in the solar storage tank is to be
between 60°C to 70°C.
If the solar control unit has entered Over-temperature operation during the day, then after the water
temperature in the solar collectors reduces later in the day or early evening, the circulator will activate. Water
from the solar storage tank will circulate through the solar collectors and excess heat in the water will radiate
from the solar collectors reducing the temperature of the water. The water will circulate for a period of time and
until the water temperature in the solar storage tank is around 60°C to 70°C. The water heater will then enter
standby mode.
Freeze Protection operation
The purpose of Freeze Protection operation is to prevent freezing of water in the solar collectors and solar
pipe work in very cold conditions. The water in the solar collectors will cool during periods of no solar gain. In
very cold conditions, such as overnight and very early in the morning before sunrise, the water temperature
can approach freezing point.
If the hot sensor measures that the water temperature in the solar collectors is approaching freezing, the
circulator will activate. Water from the solar storage tank, containing more energy than the water in the solar
collectors, will circulate through the solar collectors keeping the water temperature above freezing point. The
circulator will remain on for some minutes and until the hot sensor measures a water temperature at a safe
level above freezing. When both of these conditions are met, the circulator will deactivate. The water heater
will then enter standby mode.
This process will repeat whenever the hot sensor measures that the water temperature in the solar collectors
is approaching freezing.
Refer to “Freeze Protection” on page 10 and “Warning: Plumber – Be Aware” on page 38.
Standby mode
The water heater will be in Standby mode whenever conditions are not favourable for solar heating in Normal
operation, and Over-temperature operation and Night Time Cooling are not required or have been completed,
and conditions are not cold enough for or in-between Freeze Protection operation.
5
ABOUT YOUR WATER HEATER
Mode
Green LED
Red LED
power on* > 48 hours
power on* < 48 hours
Normal operation
rapid pulse
3 flashes
off **
Over-temperature operation
rapid pulse
3 flashes
off, or solid then off
Night Time Cooling operation
rapid pulse
3 flashes
off
Freeze Protection operation
rapid pulse
3 flashes
off
Standby mode
solid
slow pulse
off
Notes
* Power from the GPO to the solar control unit.
** In Normal Operation the red LED may emit a rapid pulse for a short period of time under certain
circumstances (refer to “Rapid Pulsing” on page 21).
typical maximum
temperature from
solar gain
maximum
recommended
supply
temperature to
bathrooms and
ensuites
minimum booster
setting
maximum booster
setting
Solar Monitor LED operation
The LEDs on the Solar Monitor, located on the side of the solar control unit, operate to show the operational
mode of the water heater. Refer also to “Solar Monitor” on page 9.
ELECTRIC BOOSTING
Water stored in the solar storage tank can be heated by an electric booster heating unit. The booster heating
unit is for heating the water at times of low solar energy gain, such as during very cloudy or rainy weather, or
during the colder months.
The amount of water heated by the raised booster heating unit of the Loline solar storage tank is 220 litres
(410 model), 170 litres (325 model) or 140 litres (271 model).
The water heater is most suited for the booster heating unit to be connected to either a continuous, or a time
of use, or an extended Off-Peak (overnight and day) electricity supply. A timer can also be used to control the
boosting periods and help maximise solar savings. Refer to “Booster Control” on page 8.
The booster heating unit may be connected to an Off-Peak (overnight) electricity supply, however this will only
allow the booster to heat the water overnight. If this type of connection is considered, care must be taken to
ensure there is sufficient boost capacity to meet the household’s full day and night’s hot water supply during
periods of no or low solar gain, particularly in cold weather.
The booster heating unit is controlled by an electric thermostat. The thermostat and its over temperature
energy cut out are mounted on the solar storage tank behind the front cover. The water temperature is
automatically controlled to the thermostat setting when the booster heating unit is energised.
HOW HOT SHOULD THE WATER BE?
The solar control unit will circulate water through the solar collectors until a
temperature of 70°C to 80°C is reached.
During periods of low solar energy gain, the water temperature can be boosted
by the thermostatically controlled electric booster heating unit. Refer to “Booster
Control” on page 8.
Rheem recommends the thermostat is set at 60°C to maximise solar
contribution.
Note: AS 3498 requires that a water heater provides the means to inhibit the
growth of Legionella bacteria in potable water. This water heater can satisfy this
AS 3498 requirement provided the electric booster is energised for a sufficient
period each day and the electric booster thermostat setting is 60°C or higher.
If this water heater is installed with an in-series continuous flow gas booster, then
this requirement of AS 3498 can be satisfied provided the booster is energised,
its preset outlet temperature setting is 70°C or higher and a remote temperature
controller is not used.
If this water heater is installed with an in-series storage booster, then this requirement of AS 3498 can be
satisfied provided the storage booster is energised and its thermostat setting is 60°C or higher.
6
ABOUT YOUR WATER HEATER
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 water heater features a tradesperson adjustable thermostat. This requires a licensed tradesperson to
make any temperature adjustments. The thermostat has a maximum temperature setting of 70°C and a
minimum temperature setting of 60°C.
We advise you have your electrician adjust the thermostat to the lowest setting which meets your needs,
especially if there are young children or elderly people in the home. Refer to “Hotter Water Increases the Risk
of Scald Injury” on page 7.
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 front cover or solar control unit cover will expose 240 V wiring. It
must only be removed by a qualified person.
The power lead from the solar controller must be plugged into a weatherproof electrical outlet if installed
outdoors. Take care not to touch the power plug with wet hands.
Do not touch any exposed pipe work or fittings connecting the solar storage tank and the solar collectors, as
this may result in a burn injury. Very high temperature hot water and in some circumstances high temperature
steam can be generated by the solar collectors under certain conditions and this flows through the pipe work
from the solar collectors to the solar storage tank.
Note: Any exposed pipe work or fittings in the collector circuit should be attended to and covered with
insulation. Phone Rheem Service or their nearest Accredited Service Agent to arrange for an inspection.
SAFETY
This water heater is supplied with a thermostat, an over-temperature energy cut-out, temperature sensors 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 power supply cord or plug to the solar control unit or the electrical conduit to the solar storage tank is
damaged, it must be replaced by a qualified person in order to avoid a hazard. The power supply cord and
plug must be replaced with a genuine replacement part available from Rheem. 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.
7
ABOUT YOUR WATER HEATER
Booster heating unit size
Model
Minimum winter
cold water temperature
Temperature
rise
2.4 kW
3.6 kW
4.8 kW
271
Cool / temperate climate
10°C
50°C
3 ½ hours
2 ½ hours
1 ¾ hours
Temperate / sub-tropical climate
15°C
45°C
3 ¼ hours
2 ¼ hours
1 ¾ hours
Tropical climate
20°C
40°C
2 ¾ hours
2 hours
1 ½ hours
325
Cool / temperate climate
10°C
50°C
4 ¼ hours
3 hours
2 ¼ hours
Temperate / sub-tropical climate
15°C
45°C
3 ¾ hours
2 ½ hours
2 hours
Tropical climate
20°C
40°C
3 ½ hours
2 ¼ hours
1 ¾ hours
410
Cool / temperate climate
10°C
50°C
5 ½ hours
3 ¾ hours
2 ¾ hours
Temperate / sub-tropical climate
15°C
45°C
5 hours
3 ¼ hours
2 ½ hours
Tropical climate
20°C
40°C
4 ½ hours
3 hours
2 ¼ hours
BOOSTER CONTROL
An isolating switch is installed in the electrical meter box for the solar storage tank. This should be left switched
on to allow the booster heating unit to operate if required. The booster heating unit is for heating the water at
times of low solar energy gain, such as during very cloudy or rainy weather, or during the colder months.
The booster heating unit will only activate if heating is required and power is available from the switchboard.
When the water is below the thermostat setting, the booster heating unit will turn on and heat the water. The
booster heating unit will automatically turn off when the temperature of the water reaches the thermostat
setting.
Leaving the isolating switch switched on will also provide a sufficient period of time each day for the booster
heating unit to operate, if required, to satisfy the requirements of AS 3498.
Timer Control Switch
A suitably rated timer control switch can be installed and will help maximise energy savings with an electrically
boosted solar water heater connected to a continuous, time of use or extended Off-Peak (overnight and
day) electricity supply. Further information for an electrician on the recommended methods of wiring the timer
are outlined in “Booster Control” on page 45.
Programming the Timer
Power must be available to the timer control switch before the booster heating unit can be activated.
The timer control switch should be programmed:
to suit the hot water consumption pattern of the household,
with the end of the period to coincide with the commencement of the evening hot water usage,
A second period, such as prior to the morning hot water usage, may be necessary.
to enable a boosting period of not less than the recommended continuous length of time for boosting,
for a period when power will be available to the timer.
Note: When daylight saving time applies, you may consider resetting the timer accordingly.
The recommended continuous length of time for boosting is:
The recommended boosting periods are sufficient to allow the booster heating unit to heat up the boost volume
of the solar storage tank to 60°C where the winter cold water temperatures do not fall below those shown. This
may be necessary during periods of no or very low solar energy gain through the solar collectors, such as
during constant rain or extremely cloudy weather, particularly in winter when the incoming cold water
temperature is lower. The period will also provide a sufficient heat up time for the electric booster to operate,
if required, to satisfy the requirements of AS 3498.
The booster heating unit will only activate if heating is required and power is available from the timer. When
the water is below the thermostat setting, the booster heating unit will turn on and heat the water. The booster
heating unit will automatically turn off either when the temperature of the water reaches the thermostat setting
or at the end of the timer period, whichever comes first.
8
ABOUT YOUR WATER HEATER
Flashes
Operational Modes
Flashes
Indicator or Fault Modes
solid green
(remains on)
Standby mode
solid red
(remains on)
Hot sensor temperature
greater than 130°C
green
slow pulse
Standby mode
(power on for less than 48 hours)
red
rapid pulse
Temperature rise across collector
greater than 45°C
(circulator at full speed)
green
rapid pulse
Circulating water through collectors
3 x red
Hot sensor in collector – short circuit
3 x green
Circulating water through collectors
(power on for less than 48 hours)
4 x red
Hot sensor in collector – open circuit
no green
(remains off)
Power outage or call for service
5 x red
Cold sensor –short circuit
6 x red
Cold sensor – open circuit
SOLAR MONITOR
A solar monitor is located on the side of the solar control unit and houses a green and a red LED.
The green LED, marked “Solar”, indicates the current operational mode of the solar water heater and the red
LED, marked “Attention”, may indicate a potential fault mode.
The green LED will emit either a constant glow, a constant
pulsing or a series of flashes, with a 2 second interval between
each series.
The red LED will emit either a constant glow, a constant
pulsing or a series of flashes with a 2 second interval between
each series. A constant glow or pulsing does not necessarily
mean there is a fault with the system. A series of flashes
indicates there may be a particular fault condition with the
system.
The modes are:
If the power supply to the solar control unit is on and the green LED is off or the red LED is flashing, this
indicates there may be a fault with the water heater. The red LED may emit from three to six flashes in each
series of flashes. A constant glow or pulsing of the red LED does not necessarily mean there is a fault with the
system.
Notes:
If the system is in standby mode with the green LED emitting either a constant glow or slow pulsing flashes
(circulator is off) and the solar storage tank is full of hot water, the red LED may simultaneously emit a
constant glow if solar radiation is still being received by the solar collectors. This does not indicate a fault.
The red LED will go out when the temperature in the solar collectors decreases.
During periods of high solar radiation and the circulator activates after having been off (the green LED will
emit either a rapid pulse or a series of three flashes), it is possible the red LED may simultaneously emit
a rapid pulse for a period of up to ten (10) minutes. This does not indicate a fault.
If the red LED continues to emit a rapid pulse for longer than ten (10) minutes, or emits a series of flashes,
then count the number of flashes and phone Rheem Service or their nearest Accredited Service Agent to
arrange for an inspection.
9
ABOUT YOUR WATER HEATER
FREEZE PROTECTION
The system has a level of freeze protection designed to guard the system against damage from freeze
conditions. The system must be installed with the full length of the solar hot and solar cold pipes insulated and
power must be available at the solar control unit to offer protection against freeze damage (refer to “Warning:
Plumber – Be Aware” on page 38). Freeze conditions occur below 6°C.
Note: The Rheem warranty against freeze damage applies only to systems installed in Australia.
The anti-freeze control is designed to recirculate a small amount of water from the solar storage tank through
the solar pipe work and solar collectors during periods of low temperatures. This is to prevent the water inside
the pipe work and collectors from freezing. It is essential the electrical circuit to the solar control unit is
continually turned on if there is a risk of freezing. The Rheem warranty does not cover damage caused by
freeze conditions when the electrical circuit to the solar control unit is turned off or interrupted.
A system has NO WARRANTY for freeze damage when installed above 400 metres altitude or if the solar hot
and solar cold pipes are not insulated in accordance with the installation instructions or if power is not available
at the solar control unit (refer to “Terms of the Rheem Warranty” on page 51).
Notes:
A system is not covered for freeze damage above 400 metres altitude by the Rheem warranty.
The freeze protection system will be rendered inoperable if electrical power is not available at the solar
control unit. Damage caused by freezing due to no power at the solar control unit, is not covered by the
Rheem warranty.
If it is necessary to switch the power off to the solar control unit and there is a risk of freezing, then it is
necessary to have your plumber drain the solar collectors and solar flow and return pipe work.
Refer to “Terms of the Rheem Warranty” on page 51.
TO TURN OFF THE WATER HEATER
If you plan to be away from home for 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 isolating switch to the solar storage tank.
Switch off the electrical supply at the power outlet to the solar control unit (refer to note below).
Close the cold water isolation valve at the inlet to the water heater.
Notes:
The freeze protection system will be rendered inoperable if electrical power is not available at the solar
control unit. Damage caused by freezing due to no power at the solar control unit is not covered by the
Rheem warranty. Refer to “Terms of the Rheem Warranty” on page 51.
If there is a risk of freezing, the electrical supply to the solar control unit should not be switched off unless
the solar collectors and solar flow and return pipe work are drained, otherwise damage could result (refer
to “Freeze Protection” on page 10).
TO TURN ON THE WATER HEATER
Open the cold water isolation valve fully at the inlet to the water heater.
If the solar collectors and solar hot and solar cold pipes have been drained, it will be necessary to bleed
the collector circuit (refer to “Bleeding the Solar Collectors” on page 11).
If the electrical supply to the water heater has been switched off:
Switch on the electrical supply at the power outlet to the solar control unit. The power outlet must be
switched on for the solar control unit to operate and solar gain to be achieved.
Switch on the electrical supply at the isolating switch to the solar storage tank.
Check and if required reset the timer, if one is installed.
10
ABOUT YOUR WATER HEATER
BLEEDING THE SOLAR COLLECTORS
It is necessary to purge air from the collector circuit:
When the water heater is to be turned on and the solar collectors and solar hot and solar cold pipes have
been drained.
After maintenance has been conducted on the pipe work and air has entered the system.
If the circulator appears not to be circulating water around the system.
Warning: It is important bleeding of the collector circuit be conducted early in the morning, within three
hours of sunrise, when the sun is low in the sky. The water temperature inside the solar collectors is lower as
the solar collectors would not have had a chance to gain as much heat as later in the day. Bleeding the collector
circuit at a time later than this can result in the discharge of high temperature water and in some circumstances,
high temperature steam.
To purge air from the collector circuit:
Ensure the water heater is full of water and all of the hot
taps are turned off.
Using a flat blade screwdriver, open the bleed valve (if it is
not already open) fitted adjacent to the solar hot water (from
collector) inlet of the solar storage tank (see diagram).
The mains pressure will force water to flow from the tank
and through the pipe work, expelling air from the collector
circuit through the bleed valve. This is evidenced by
spurting of water from the drain line connected to the bleed
valve.
Warning: Stand well aside of the air bleed valve drain
pipe discharge point and exercise care to avoid any
splashing of water, as water or in some circumstances
steam discharged from the solar collectors may be of a very
high temperature.
Close the bleed valve when water runs freely from the drain
line.
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 13 and to “Anode Inspection and Replacement” on page 17.
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 backup redundancy into your hot water supply system.
11
ABOUT YOUR WATER HEATER
GOING ON HOLIDAYS
If you plan to be away from home, conserve energy by switching the booster switch “OFF”. It is not necessary
to switch off the electrical supply at the power outlet to the solar control unit. Refer to “To Turn Off The Water
Heater” on page 10. Also if the system is not used for a period in excess of two (2) weeks it is recommended
the solar collectors be covered.
HOW DO I KNOW IF THE WATER HEATER IS INSTALLED CORRECTLY?
Installation requirements are shown on pages 31 and 34. 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 to Clause G12 of the New Zealand Building Code.
Refer also to “Warning: Plumber – Be Aware” on page 38.
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, the solar collectors, components and fittings. Refer to “Water Supplies”
on page 16.
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 16 to 18.
HOW LONG WILL THE WATER HEATER LAST?
The water heater is supported by a manufacturer’s warranty (refer to page 51). 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 11.
12
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 14.
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 14.
Check the drain line from the safe tray (if one is installed) is not blocked.
Check the status of the LEDs. The green LED should be illuminated (either solid, pulsing or flashing). The
red LED should be off. Refer to “Solar Monitor” on page 9 and “Household Maintenance Around the Solar
Storage Tank” on page 15.
It is important to ensure the solar controller and circulator are operating correctly, particularly at the onset
of the colder winter season. Solar gain will not be achieved and the freeze protection system will be
rendered inoperative if the solar controller or circulator are not operating.
MAJOR FIVE YEAR SERVICE
It is recommended a major five year service be conducted on the water heater.
Warning: Servicing of a water heater must only be carried out 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 valves,
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 17).
Check the electric heating unit for excessive calcium build up or corrosion and replace if necessary.
Check the solar control unit for correct operation.
Flush and bleed the solar collectors.
Clean the collector glass.
Check the insulation on the solar hot and solar cold pipes. If required, insulate exposed pipe work and
repair or replace degraded insulation.
Visually check the unit for any potential problems.
Inspect all connections.
Check the drain line from the safe tray (if one is installed) is not blocked.
Note: The solar storage tank may need to be drained during this service. After the completion of the service,
the solar storage tank will take some time to reheat the water by solar gain. Depending upon the power supply
connection to the booster heating unit, hot water may not be available until the next morning.
13
REGULAR CARE
water
heater
drain
line
lift until water
flows from the
drain line –
lower gently
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 20).
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. Refer to “Minor Six Month Maintenance”
on page 13. It is very important the lever is raised and lowered
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 16).
EXPANSION CONTROL VALVE
In many areas, including South Australia, Western Australia and scaling water areas, it is mandatory 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.
The easing lever on the expansion control valve should be operated once every six months. Refer to “Minor
Six Month Maintenance” on page 13. It is very important the lever is raised and lowered gently. If water
does not flow freely from the drain line when the lever is lifted, then the water heater should be checked by
Rheem Service or their nearest Accredited Service Agent. 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.
COLLECTOR GLASS
Ensure the glass on your solar collectors is free of dust, salt spray or any other matter, which may reduce the
effectiveness of the solar collectors. If the collector glass becomes dirty, hose down or if the solar collectors
are accessible, wash the collector glass with water and a soft brush when the solar collectors are cool.
Have any trees trimmed which may shade the solar collectors.
Rheem solar collectors have passed the AS/NZS 2712 requirements for resistance to hailstone damage, so it
is not normally necessary to fit a guard to a collector. Stone Guards are available to provide a level of protection
to the collectors against vandalism or accidental damage. Refer to your local Solar Distributor for details.
14
REGULAR CARE
FLUSHING THE SOLAR COLLECTORS
It may be necessary to flush the solar collectors if there is sediment in the water supply. This should be
conducted in the morning, within three hours of sunrise.
Warning: It is important flushing of the solar collectors be conducted early in the morning, within three
hours of sunrise, when the sun is low in the sky. The water temperature inside the solar collectors is lower as
the solar collectors would not have had a chance to gain as much heat as later in the day. Flushing the solar
collectors at a time later than this can result in the discharge of high temperature water and in some
circumstances, high temperature steam.
To flush the solar collectors:
Open a hot water tap and allow the water to run for five (5) minutes prior to flushing the solar collectors.
Close the hot tap.
Wait a further five (5) minutes before attempting to flush the solar collectors.
This will assist in the transfer of any high temperature water in the solar collectors to the solar storage
tank.
Warning: Exercise care, as water discharged from the solar collectors may be of a very high
temperature.
To flush the solar collectors, follow the procedure “Bleeding the Solar Collectors” on page 11, allowing the
water to flow from the bleed valve drain line for five minutes before closing the bleed valve.
It is recommended to flush the solar collectors every five years. This will assist in keeping the solar collectors,
solar cold pipe and solar hot pipe clear of sediment.
HOUSEHOLD MAINTENANCE AROUND THE SOLAR STORAGE TANK
Care should be taken when conducting general household maintenance, such as lawn mowing and grass
cutting, around the solar storage tank. Careless use of devices such as a whipper snipper could damage or
cut a sensor lead or the electrical cable.
If a sensor lead or the electrical cable is damaged or cut, solar contribution may not be achieved and the freeze
protection system may be rendered inoperative. In addition, if the electrical cable has been damaged or cut,
wiring may be exposed leading to a dangerous situation.
On a regular basis, inspect around the water heater for insect infestations, such as ants. Insects may look for
a warm place to nest, particularly in wet weather. Insects encroaching into or nesting in the water heater and
the solar control unit can interfere with the operation of the water heater and also damage components. Spray
insecticide around the water heater if necessary to rid the area of insects.
15
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)
CONDUCTIVITY - µS/cm
TOTAL DISSOLVED SOLIDS & CONDUCTIVITY
(vitreous enamel lined water heater cylinder)
40 150 400 600
TOTAL DISSOLVED SOLIDS (TDS) - mg/L
ANODE SELECTION
warranty applies to a vitreous enamel lined water heater cylinder if the
correct coloured anode is used for the TDS / conductivity level of water
2500
3570
no warranty
applies
to a vitreous
enamel lined
water heater
cylinder
Blue
Black
Green
60 215 570 860
0
0
Blue
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 water heater cylinder, a temperature pressure relief valve, a heating unit and a
solar collector in an open circuit solar water heater system.
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
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 on page 16 for the Rheem warranty to apply to the water heater cylinder.
The changing of an anode 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.
16
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