Rheem Solar Loline Water Heater, Loline 270, Loline 340, Loline 430 Owner's Manual And Installation Instructions
This water heater must be installed and serviced by an authorised person.
Please leave this guide with the householder.
Owner’s Guide
and
Installation Instructions
Solar Loline Water Heater
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.
PATENTS
This water heater may be protected by one or more patents or registered designs in the name of
Rheem Australia Pty Ltd.
TRADE MARKS
®
Registered trademark of Rheem Australia Pty Ltd.
™ Trademark of Rheem Australia Pty Ltd.
Note: Every care has been taken to ensure accuracy in preparation of this publication.
No liability can be accepted for any consequences, which may arise as a result of its application.
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 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. The system has 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 pipe, assist in avoiding accidental contact with the
solar pipe work as high temperature water can flow from the solar collectors to the solar storage tank
and also reduce pipe heat losses.
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. The solar collectors can generate
extremely high water temperatures up to 150°C and high water pressure of 1000 kPa. 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.
The highest point of the solar cold pipe and solar hot pipe must be where they connect to the solar
collectors, to avoid the possibility of air locks occurring in the system. There must be a continuous
fall in the pipe work between the solar collectors and solar storage tank. Horizontal runs of pipe
work are acceptable and may be installed.
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 backflow prevention device also should be used as an extra safeguard. Valve manufacturer RMC
recommends Dual Check Valve model N7150, as being suitable for this application.
The pressure applied to the solar circuit and solar collectors during a pressure test of a direct open
circuit system MUST NOT exceed 1000 kPa, otherwise damage may result to the solar collectors.
Refer to “Pressure Testing” on page 34.
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 .............................................................................................................................. 12
Water Supplies ........................................................................................................................... 14
Save A Service Call ................................................................................................................... 17
Installation – Solar Storage Tank ............................................................................................. 20
Installation – Solar Control Unit ............................................................................................... 28
Installation – Solar Collectors .................................................................................................. 31
Connections – Plumbing .......................................................................................................... 35
Connections – Electrical ........................................................................................................... 38
Commissioning .......................................................................................................................... 41
Draining The Solar Collectors .................................................................................................. 44
Draining The Water Heater ....................................................................................................... 44
Warranty ..................................................................................................................................... 47
4
ABOUT YOUR WATER HEATER
MODEL TYPE
Your Rheem® Loline® open circuit solar water heater is designed for the solar collectors to be roof mounted
and the solar storage tank to be installed at ground level. The solar storage tank is suitable for either outdoor
or indoor installation and can be installed with Rheem NPT 200 or HBT 200 solar collectors. The system is
not suitable for installation above 400 metres altitude.
The system has a level of freeze protection designed to guard the system against damage from freeze
conditions (refer to “Freeze Protection” on page 8). The system must be installed with the full length of the
solar hot and solar cold pipes insulated to offer protection against freeze damage (refer to “Pipe Work and
Insulation” on page 8). Freeze conditions occur below 6°C.
The 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 (refer to “Warranty
Exclusions” on page 47). Note: 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.
SOLAR OPERATION
The Rheem Loline open circuit system has its vitreous enamel lined solar
storage tank installed at ground or floor level, remotely from the solar
collectors.
As the sun heats the water in the solar collectors the increase in
temperature activates the circulator. The circulator then moves the water
from the solar collectors through an insulated copper pipe to the solar
storage tank. The circulator switches on whenever the water in the solar
collectors is hotter than the water in the tank. Cooler water from the solar
storage tank is circulated to the solar collectors to be heated by the sun‟s
energy.
This process continues while solar energy is available and until the water
in the solar storage tank reaches a temperature of 70°C to 75°C.
Automatic safety controls are fitted to the water heater to provide safe and
efficient operation.
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 Loline water heater is suitable for the
heating unit to be connected to either a continuous, or a time of use, or an
extended Off-Peak (overnight and day) or an Off-Peak (overnight)
electricity supply.
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.
ABOUT YOUR WATER HEATER
5
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 22, 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 solar circuit
system to operate effectively.
HOW HOT SHOULD THE WATER BE?
The solar control unit will circulate water through the solar collectors
until a temperature of 70°C to 75°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 6.
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.
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 5.
typical maximum temperature
from solar gain
maximum recommended
supply temperature to
bathrooms and ensuites
minimum booster setting
maximum booster setting
ABOUT YOUR WATER HEATER
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.
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 will expose 240 V wiring. It must only be removed by
an authorised or 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.
Care should be taken not to touch the pipe work connecting the solar storage tank and the solar collectors.
Very high temperature hot water can be generated by the solar collectors under certain conditions and flow
through the pipe work from the solar collectors to the solar storage tank.
SAFETY
This water heater is supplied with a thermostat, an over-temperature cut-out, 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 an
authorised or 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 an authorised 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 warranty can become void if relief valves or other safety devices are tampered with or if the
installation is not in accordance with these instructions.
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.
The amount of water heated by the raised booster heating unit of your Loline storage tank will be 285 litres
(430 model), 200 litres (340 model) or 160 litres (270 model).
ABOUT YOUR WATER HEATER
7
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.
If used with an extended Off-Peak (overnight and day) electricity supply, the timer switch should:
be operated by a continuous power supply on its own circuit from the switchboard with the booster
heating unit operated by the Off-Peak power supply. A double pole isolating switch is required to be
installed at the switchboard to simultaneously isolate both circuits.
or
be of a type which has an internal rechargeable battery to keep time when the power supply is not
available to 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,
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.
It may be necessary to program a second period into the timer, such as prior to the morning hot water usage.
Note: When daylight saving time applies, you may consider resetting the timer accordingly.
The recommended continuous length of time for boosting is:
Booster heating unit size
Model
Minimum winter
cold water temperature
Temperature
rise
2.4 kW
3.6 kW
4.8 kW
270
Cool / temperate climate
10°C
50°C
4 hours
2 ¾ hours
2 hours
Temperate / sub tropical climate
15°C
45°C
3 ¾ hours
2 ½ hours
1 ¾ hours Tropical climate
20°C
40°C
3 ¼ hours
2 ¼ hours
1 ¾ hours
340
Cool / temperate climate
10°C
50°C
5 hours
3 ½ hours
2 ½ hours
Temperate / sub tropical climate
15°C
45°C
4 ½ hours
3 hours
2 ½ hours Tropical climate
20°C
40°C
4 hours
2 ¾ hours
2 hours
430
Cool / temperate climate
10°C
50°C
7 hours
4 ¾ hours
3 ½ hours
Temperate / sub tropical climate
15°C
45°C
6 ½ hours
4 ¼ hours
3 ¼ hours Tropical climate
20°C
40°C
5 ¾ hours
3 ¾ hours
3 hours
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 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.
ABOUT YOUR WATER HEATER
8
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 to
offer protection against freeze damage (refer to “Pipe Work and Insulation” on page 8). Freeze conditions
occur below 6°C.
The 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 (refer to “Warranty
Exclusions” on page 47). Note: 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 during periods of low temperatures. This is to prevent the water inside the pipe work from
freezing. It is essential that the electrical circuit to the solar control unit is continually turned on if there is a
risk of freezing. The solar warranty does not cover damage caused by freeze conditions when the electrical
circuit to the solar control unit is turned off or interrupted.
Notes:
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.
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
warranty.
The system is not covered for freeze damage above 400 metres altitude.
Refer to “Warranty Exclusions” on page 47.
PIPE WORK AND INSULATION
The solar hot and solar cold pipe work between the solar storage tank and the solar collectors and between
the solar storage tank and in-series booster (if one is installed) MUST BE of copper.
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
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 of these requirements to be observed 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 pipe, assist in avoiding accidental contact with the solar pipe work
as high temperature water can flow from the solar collectors to the solar storage tank and also reduce pipe
heat losses.
Plastic pipe MUST NOT be used, as it will not withstand the temperature and pressure of the water
generated by the solar collectors under certain conditions (refer to Warning on page 33).
ABOUT YOUR WATER HEATER
9
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”, indicates a fault mode.
The green LED will emit either a constant glow or a series of flashes, with a 2 second interval between each
series.
The red LED will emit a series of flashes, with a 2 second interval between each series, only if there is a
particular fault condition with the system.
The operational modes are:
Flashes
Operational Modes
solid green
(remains on)
Standby mode
green
slow pulse
Standby mode
(power on for less than 48 hours)
green
rapid pulse
Circulating water through collectors
3 x green
Circulating water through collectors
(power on for less than 48 hours)
no green
(remains off)
Power outage or call for service
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 up to six flashes in each series
of flashes.
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.
ABOUT YOUR WATER HEATER
10
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: Bleeding the solar collectors should be conducted in the morning, within three hours of
sunrise, when the water temperature inside the solar collectors is lower.
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: Exercise care to avoid any splashing of
water, as water discharged from the solar collectors may
be of a very high temperature.
Close the bleed valve when water runs freely from the
drain line.
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.
Note: If there is a risk of freezing conditions, the electrical supply to the solar control unit should not be
switched off unless the solar collectors are drained, otherwise damage could result (refer to “Freeze
Protection” on page 8).
ABOUT YOUR WATER HEATER
11
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 10).
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.
HOW DO I KNOW IF THE WATER HEATER IS INSTALLED CORRECTLY?
Installation requirements are shown on pages 27 and 30. The water heater must be installed by an
authorised person and the installation must comply with Standards AS/NZS 3500.4, AS/NZS 3000 and all
local codes and regulatory authority requirements. In New Zealand, the installation must conform with
Clause G12 of the New Zealand Building Code.
Refer also to “Pipe Work and Insulation” on page 8.
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 cylinder, solar collectors and fittings. If you are in a known harsh water area you
must read page 14. If you are not sure, have your water chemistry checked against the conditions
described on page 14.
HOW LONG WILL THE WATER HEATER LAST?
There are a number of factors that will affect the length of service the water heater will provide. These
include the water chemistry, the water pressure, temperature (inlet and outlet) and the water usage pattern.
However, your water heater is supported by a comprehensive warranty (refer to page 48).
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.
12
REGULAR CARE
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 18).
Warning: Never block the outlet of this valve or its drain line
for any reason.
Operate the easing lever on the temperature pressure relief
valve once every six months. It is very important you raise
and lower the lever gently.
DANGER: Failure to do this may result in the water heater
cylinder failing, or under certain circumstances, exploding.
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 temperature pressure relief 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 (refer to “Water Supplies” on page 14).
EXPANSION CONTROL VALVE
In many areas, including South Australia, Western Australia and scaling water areas, an expansion control
valve is fitted to the cold water line to the water heater. The expansion control valve may discharge a small
quantity of water from its drain line during the heating period instead of the temperature pressure relief valve
on the water heater.
Operate the easing lever on the expansion control valve once every six months. It is very important you
raise and lower the lever gently. The expansion control valve should be checked for performance or
replaced at intervals not exceeding 5 years, or more frequently in areas where there is a high incidence of
water deposits.
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.
water
heater
drain
line
lift until water
flows from the
drain line –
lower gently
REGULAR CARE
13
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.
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
collector(s).
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 collector(s) 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 10, 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.
14
WATER SUPPLIES
This water heater must be installed in accordance with this advice to be covered by the 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 water heater 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 a direct 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 warranty to apply.
ANODE
The vitreous enamel lined cylinder of the water heater is only covered by 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
installed. The use of an incorrect colour coded anode will void the cylinder warranty and 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 14 for warranty to apply to the water heater cylinder.
Total Dissolved Solids
Anode colour code
0 – 40 mg/L
Green
40 – 150 mg/L
Green or Black
150 – 400 mg/L
Black
400 – 600 mg/L
Black or Blue
600 – 2500 mg/L
Blue
2500 mg/L +
Blue (no cylinder warranty)
The changing of anodes must be carried out by a plumber or authorised service 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.
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
15
ANODE INSPECTION
The anode installed in your water heater will slowly dissipate whilst protecting the cylinder. The life of the
water heater cylinder may be extended by arranging for an authorised person to inspect the anode and
replace if required.
The suggested time after installation when the anode should be inspected 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 inspected
3 years earlier than shown (refer to “Anode” on page 14).
CAUTION
If the water supply has a TDS greater than 150 mg/L and a green anode has not been changed to a black
anode, or if the TDS is greater than 600 mg/L and the anode has not been changed to a blue anode, there is
the possibility the anode may become overactive and hydrogen gas could accumulate in the top of the water
heater during long periods of no use.
If, under these conditions, the water heater has not been used for two or more weeks the following
procedure should be carried out before using any electrical appliances (automatic washing machines and
dishwashers) which are connected to the hot water supply.
The hydrogen, which is highly flammable, should be vented safely by opening a hot tap and allowing the
water to flow. There should be no smoking or naked flame near the tap whilst it is turned on. Any hydrogen
gas will be dissipated. This is indicated by an unusual spurting of the water from the tap. Once the water
runs freely, any hydrogen in the system will have been released.
SATURATION INDEX
The saturation index is used as a measure of the water‟s corrosive or scaling properties.
In a corrosive water supply, the water can attack copper parts and cause them to fail.
Where the saturation index is less than –1.0, the water is very corrosive and warranty does not apply to a
copper sheathed heating unit or a solar collector in a direct solar water heater system. A corrosion resistant
heating unit must be used for warranty to apply to the heating unit.
In a scaling water supply calcium carbonate is deposited out of the water onto any hot metallic surface.
Where the saturation index exceeds +0.40, the water is very scaling. An expansion control valve must be
fitted on the cold water line after the non-return valve to protect and for warranty to apply to the temperature
pressure relief valve and water heater cylinder. Solar collectors in a direct solar water heater system should
be covered when the water heater is not intended to be used for more than two weeks.
Where the saturation index exceeds +0.80, warranty does not apply to a standard watts density heating unit
or a solar collector in a direct solar water heater system. A low watts density heating unit must be used for
warranty to apply to the heating unit.
Water which is scaling may be treated with a water softening device to reduce the saturation index of the
water.
Refer to the Saturation Index chart on page 16.
Contact Rheem Service or their nearest Accredited Service Agent if a replacement heating unit is required.
Refer to the cold water connection detail on page 35 for the position of the expansion control valve.
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