Rheem Professional Classic Series Power Direct Vent User Manual
!
Rheem Canada
Warning: This water heater is not suitable
for use in manufactured (mobile) homes!
Use & Care Manual
With Installation Instructions for the Installer
Residential Gas - FVIR Certified
PowerDirect Vent
Residential 40, 50, 65 & 75 Gallon Models
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, for 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 very important 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 do not understand these instructions or any terms within it,
seek professional assistance.
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!
!
Water Heaters
!
WARNING: If the information in these instructions is not followed exactly,
a fire or explosion may result causing property damage, personal injury or death.
!
FOR YOUR SAFETY!
— Do not store or use gasoline or other
flammable vapours 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
l Do not try to light any appliance.
l Do not touch any electrical switch; do not
use any phone in your building.
l Immediately call your gas supplier from a
neighbor’s phone. Follow the gas supplier’s
instructions.
l If you cannot reach your gas supplier, call
the fire department.
l 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.
Printed in USA
AP14897-3 (08/11)
Safety Information
Safety Precautions . . . . . . . 3–6
LP Gas Models . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Installation Instructions
Location . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Water Supply Connections . . 8
Gas Supply . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Vent and Combustion
Air-Inlet . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11-28
Condensate Management . . .29
Wiring Diagram . . . . . . . . . . .30
Pipe Insulation . . . . . . . . . . . .31
Heat Traps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .31
Installation Checklist . . . . . . .33
Potable/Space Heating . . . . 34
Operating Instructions
Lighting Instructions . . . . . . 35
Water Temperature . . . . . 36-37
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.
READ THIS MANUAL
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.
Care and Cleaning
Draining . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39
Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39
Vent System Inspection . . . . 40
Burner Inspection . . . . . . . . 40
Extended Shut-Down . . . . . .40
Troubleshooting Tips
Before You Call
For Service . . . . . . . . . . . 41-42
LED Codes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .43
Customer Service
Parts List . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44
If You Need Service . . . . . . .48
READ THE SAFETY INFORMATION
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
WARNING
!
!
CAUTION
NOTICE:
An imminently hazardous situation
that will result in death or serious
injury.
A potentially hazardous situation that
could result in death or serious injury
and/or damage to property.
A potentially hazardous situation that
may result in minor moderate injury.
Attention is called to observe specified
procedure or maintain a specific
condition.
2
IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION
READ ALL INSTRUCTIONS BEFORE USING
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.
NOTICE: This water heater is equipped with a flammable vapour sensor that will automatically shut
down the water heater in the presence of gasoline vapours and some other flammable vapours. If the
flammable vapour sensor shuts down the water heater, contact a qualified service technician. Clear
any hazardous materials and ventilate the area around the water heater. Do not turn off the appliance
or adjust the ON/OFF switch in any way. Do not tamper with the flammable vapour sensor. Do not
submerse the flammable vapour sensor in water. Do not allow the flammable vapour sensor to come
into contact with any substances such as bleach or cleaners. See the “Gas Valve LED Code” Section of
this manual for a list of diagnostic codes.
DANGER!
PROPERLY VENT THE WATER HEATER
Failure to properly vent the water heater as outlined in the Vent and Combustion Air-Inlet
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 both the vent and combustion air-inlet systems are
properly installed. Be sure to inspect both the vent and combustion air-inlet for proper
installation at initial start-up; and at least periodically thereafter. Refer to the Care and
Cleaning section of this manual for more information regarding vent and combustion airinlet system inspection.
WARNING!
Gasoline, as well as other flammable materials and liquids (which include but are not
limited to adhesives, solvents, paint thinners etc.) and the vapours 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 warning label pictured below and other 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.
W A R N I N G
!
FLAMMABL ES
!
Do not store or use gasoline or other flammable vapors and liquids
in the vicinity of this or any other appliance. Storage of or use of gasoline
or other flammable vapors or liquids in the vicinity of this or any other
appliance can result in serious injury or death.
Flammable Vapors
FIRE AND EXPLOSION HAZARD
Can result in serious injury or death.
3
!
IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION.
READ ALL INSTRUCTIONS BEFORE USING
DANGER!
WATER TEMPERATURE SETTING
Safety and energy conservation are factors to be considered when selecting the water
temperature setting of a water heater’s combination gas 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. This label is also located on the water heater.
Time/Temperature Relationship in Scalds
!
D A N G E R
HOT
BURN
Water temperature over 125°
can
cause severe burns
instantly or
death fr om 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.
F
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 combination gas control (thermostat)
setting to prevent contact with “HOT” water.
Maximum water temperatures occur just after the
burner has shut off. 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 pages 36 and 37 for more details.)
The temperature of the water in the heater can be
regulated by pressing the "COOLER" or "HOTTER"
arrow buttons on the front of the combination
gas control. To comply with safety regulations the
combination gas control was set at its lowest setting
before the water heater was shipped from the factory.
The desired water temperature must be set.
The illustration below details the approximate
water temperature for each LED indicator of the
VACATION
WARM
COOLER
A B C
WARNING
HOTTER
VERY
HOT
combination gas control's
display.
!DANGER: Hotter water
increases the potential for
Hot Water SCALDS.
Notice: Mixing valves are available for reducing point of
use water temperature by mixing hot and cold water in
branch water lines. Contact a licensed plumber or the local
plumbing authority for further information.
4
Temperature Setting
WARM = approx. 70°F (21°C)
▼ = approx. 120°F (49°C)
A = approx. 130°F (54°C)
B = approx. 140°F (60°C)
C = approx. 150°F (66°C)
C-Flashing = approx. 160°F (71°C)
Display
▼ A B C
● ○ ○ ○ ○ ○
○ ○ ● ○ ○ ○
○ ○ ○ ● ○ ○
○ ○ ○ ○ ● ○
○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ●
○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ●
Burns on Adult Skin
--------------------
More than 5 minutes
About 30 seconds
Less than 5 seconds
About 1-1/2 seconds
About 1/2 seconds
DANGER!
!
LIQUEFIED PETROLEUM (LP) AND NATURAL GAS MODELS
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.
l 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.
DANGER: If a gas leak is present or
suspected:
l Do not attempt to find the cause yourself.
l 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. LP for LP units. Natural gas
for natural gas units. These units are not
certified for any other fuel type.
l 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.
l 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.
l 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.
l Do not try to light any appliance.
l Do not touch any electrical switch.
l Do not use any phone in your building.
l Leave the house immediately and make
sure your family and pets leave also.
l Leave the doors open for ventilation
and contact the gas supplier, a qualified
service agency or the fire department.
l Stay away from the house (or building)
until the service call has been made, the
leak is corrected and a qualified agency
has determined the area to be safe.
l Gas detectors are recommended in LP
& natural gas applications and their
installation should be in accordance
with the detector manufacturer’s
recommendations and/or local laws,
rules, regulations or customs.
l It is recommended that more than one
method, such as soapy solution, gas
detectors, etc., be used to detect leaks in
gas applications.
5
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.
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
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.
READ AND FOLLOW THIS SAFETY INFORMATION
CAREFULLY.
SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS
IMPORTANT
Carefully inspect the water heater for damage before proceeding with the installation. Of specific
interest should be any dents in the long blue cover panel for the combustion air-inlet, PVC pipe; or
damages to the blower and the combustion air-inlet, PVC pipe assembly. If you find damage, DO
NOT install or attempt any repair to the water heater. Contact the manufacturer as detailed under "IF
YOU NEED SERVICE" section of the manual.
6
Installing the 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 CAN/
CSA B149 – Natural Gas and Propane Installation Code. A copy can be purchased from the
Canadian Standards Association, 5060 Spectrum Way, Mississauga, Ontario L4W5N6.
Location
Max.
2.75 in.
(7 cm)
Flammable
Vapour
Sensor
The auxiliary catch pan
installation MUST conform to
local codes, if applicable.
NOTICE: DO NOT allow
the catch pan to obstruct
the flammable vapour
sensor.
NOTICE: DO NOT allow
the flammable vapour
sensor to become submerged
in water. Make sure the
catch pan is properly
drained.
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.
Diameter of water
heater plus 2 in.
(5.1 cm) min.
The water heater should not be located
in an area where leakage from the tank
or connections will result in damage
to the area adjacent to the heater 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 water heater must be centered in the
catch pan.
Catch pan kits are available from the
store where the water heater was purchased, or any water heater distributor.
Make certain the floor underneath the
water heater is strong enough to sufficiently support the weight of the water
heater once it is filled with water.
This gas-fired water heater or any other
appliance should not be installed in a
space where liquids which give off flammable vapours are to be used or stored.
Such liquids include gasoline, LP gas
(butane or propane), paint or adhesives,
thinners, solvents and/or combustible
removers.
DO NOT obstruct or block the
Flammable Vapour Sensor.
Because of natural air movement in a
room or other enclosed space, flammable
vapours can be carried some distance
from where liquids which give off flammable vapours are to be used or stored.
The open flame of the water heater’s
main burner can ignite these vapours creating a shut down condition which will
not allow the water heater to ignite.
FVIR certified gas water heaters can be
installed on a residential garage floor
without the use of an 18 in. (46 cm) stand
in accordance with the CAN/CSA B149.1
- Natural Gas and Propane Installation
Code for Canadian installations, unless
otherwise directed by Province. The
water heater must be located so it is not
subject to physical damage, for example,
by moving vehicles, area flooding, etc.
● We recommend this water heater be
installed in locations where the ambient temperatures do not exceed 100°F
(38°C).
IMPORTANT: Do not install the
water heater in a location where it may
be subjected to ambient temperatures
exceeding 125°F (52°C).
● The water heater should be installed
so as to minimize the length of plastic
vent and combustion air-inlet pipe and
the number of vent and combination
air-inlet connection fittings required.
● See Vent and Combustion Air-Inlet
Section for vent system requirements.
● Hot water lines should be insulated to
conserve water and energy.
● Protect the water heater and water lines
from exposure to freezing temperatures.
● DO NOT install this water heater out-
doors.
● Minimum clearances from combustible
construction:
FrontV
5 in.
(12.7 cm)
V "Front" Clearance dimension is mea-
sured from the water heater jacket to
the closet door.
VV "Top" clearance dimension is mea-
sured from the jacket top of the
water heater to the ceiling.
● If the water heater is to be installed
directly on carpeting, the water heater
shall be installed on a metal or wood
panel extending beyond the full width
and depth of the water heater by at
least 3 in. (7.6 cm) in all directions or,
if the water heater is to be installed
in an alcove or closet, the entire floor
must be covered by a wood or metal
panel.
Sides Rear
0 in.
(0 cm)
0 in.
(0 cm)
TopVV
12 in.
(30.5 cm)
7
Installing the Water Heater
NOTICE: The water heater
must not be installed near
an air supply containing
halogenated hydrocarbons.
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 halogenated hydrocarbons.
An air supply containing halogenated hydrocarbons may be safe to breathe, but when it
passes through a gas flame corrosive elements
Thermal Expansion
Determine if a check valve exists in the inlet
water line. Check with your local water utility
company. It may have been installed in the cold
water line as a separate back flow preventer,
or it may be part of a pressure reducing valve,
water meter or water softener. A check valve
located in the cold water inlet line can cause
what is referred to as a “closed water system”.
A cold water inlet line with no check valve or
back flow prevention device is referred to as an
“open” water system.
As water is heated, it expands in volume and
creates an increase in the pressure within the
water system. This action is referred to as “ther-
mal expansion”. In an “open” water system,
expanding water which exceeds the capacity of
the water heater flows back into the city main
where the pressure is easily dissipated.
A “closed water system”, however, prevents
the expanding water from flowing back into the
main supply line, and the result of “thermal
expansion” can create a rapid and dangerous
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.
pressure increase in the water heater and system
piping. This rapid pressure increase can quickly
reach the safety setting of the relief valve, causing it to operate during each heating cycle.
Thermal expansion, and the resulting rapid, and
repeated expansion and contraction of components in the water heater and piping system can
cause premature failure of the relief valve, and
possibly the heater itself. Replacing the relief
valve will not correct the problem!
The suggested method of controlling thermal
expansion is to install an expansion tank in the
cold water line between the water heater and the
check valve (see "Typical Installation" on page
9). The expansion tank is designed with an air
cushion built in that compresses as the system
pressure increases, thereby relieving the over
pressure condition and eliminating the repeated
operation of the relief valve. Other methods of
controlling thermal expansion are also available.
Contact your installing contractor, water supplier
or plumbing inspector for additional information
regarding this subject.
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 cold
water connections on heater.
Any heat applied to the cold
water supply fittings will
permanently damage the
dip tube and heat traps.
8
Water Supply Connections
Refer to the following illustration for suggested
typical installation. The installation of unions
or flexible copper connectors are recommended
on the hot and cold water connections so that
the water heater may be easily disconnected
for servicing if necessary. The HOT and COLD
water connections are clearly marked on the
water heater. Install a shutoff valve in the cold
water line near the water heater.
IMPORTANT
For models equipped with a Top Cap, it is recommended that the hot and cold water piping
have a minimum vertical height of 10 inches
(25.4 cm) from the top of the water heater
before transitioning into any elbow. This
vertical height is needed in order to provide
adequate clearance for Top Cap installation and
removal.
To gain access to the hot and cold water connections on models equipped with a Top Cap,
remove the two (2) screws that secure the top
cap to the water heater then pull the Top Cap
upward and off the water heater. See illustration of Top Cap and screws on pages 32 & 44.
10"
(25.4 cm)
min.
Top Cap
Alternate installation
detail for models
equipped with a Top Cap.
NOTICE: The Canadian
Standards Association
mandates a manual
gas shut-off valve: See
the CAN/CSA B149.1
Natural Gas and
Propane Installation
Code for complete
instructions.
Typical Installation
10" (25.4 cm)
min.
Combination gas control
Vent connector
Union (Optional)
Heat trap
6 in. (15.2 cm) min.
Hot water outlet to
fixtures
Water heater jacket
Temperature and
pressure relief valve
Manual gas shut-off
To gas supply
Union
Sediment trap
Cap
Jacket door
Flammable Vapour Sensor
Optional catch pan
(if required).
Drain pan pipe
to suitable drain.
1/8 in. per foot (10 mm per meter)
maximum slope down away from
the water heater for horizontal
venting.
Combustion air-inlet connector
Shut-off
valve
Thermal expansion
tank (if required)
Drain
valve
6 in. (15.2 cm) min. air gap
Blower assembly
Union (optional)
Heat trap
6 in. (15.2 cm) min.
To cold water
supply
Shut-off valve
Relief valve discharge
line to suitable open
drain.
A new combination temperature and 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, is factory installed and must remain in the opening provided and marked for the
purpose on the water heater. No valve of any type should be installed between the relief valve
and the tank.
Relief Valve
The pressure rating of the relief valve
must not exceed 150 psi (1,034 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.
Position the outlet of the relief valve
above a suitable open drain to eliminate
potential water damage. Piping used
should be of a type approved for hot water
distribution.
The discharge line must be no smaller
than the outlet of the valve and must pitch
downward from the valve 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 must
be installed in the discharge line.
9
Installing the Water Heater
WARNING: The tank
must be full of water
before the water heater is
turned on. The water
heater warranty does not
cover damage or failure
resulting from operation
with an empty or partially
empty tank.
To Fill the Water Heater
Make certain that the drain valve is closed, then
open the shut-off valve in the cold water supply
line.
Open each hot water faucet slowly to allow the
air to vent from the water
heater and piping.
Condensation
Condensation can form on the tank when it
is first filled with water. Condensation might
also occur with a heavy water draw and very
cold inlet water temperatures.
Drops of water falling on the burner can produce a sizzling or pinging sound.
Gas Supply
A steady flow of water from all hot water
faucet(s) indicates a full water heater.
Do not allow the flammable vapour sensor to
become submerged in water.
This condition is not unusual, and will disappear
after the water becomes heated. If, however, the
condensation continues, examine the piping and
fittings for possible leaks.
WARNING: Do not
attempt to convert this
water heater for use with a
different type of gas other
than the type shown on the
rating plate. Such
conversion could result in
hazardous operating
conditions.
WARNING: Never use
an open flame to test for
gas leaks, as property
damage, personal injury,
or death could result.
The branch gas supply line to the water heater
should be clean properly sized steel pipe or
other approved gas piping material.
A union or ANSI design certified semi-rigid
or flexible gas appliance connector shall be
installed in the gas line close to the water heater.
The Canadian Standards Association mandates
a manual gas shut off valve. See the CAN/CSA
B149.1 Natural Gas and Propane Installation
Code for complete instructions.
Compound used on the threaded joints of the
gas piping must be of the type resistant to the
action of LP gas. Use compound sparingly on
male threads only.
Where a sediment trap is not incorporated as
part of the appliance, a sediment trap shall be
installed downstream of the equipment shutoff
valve as close to the inlet of the appliance as
Leak Testing
The water heater and its gas connections must
be leak tested at normal operating pressures
before it is placed in operation.
Turn on the manual gas shut-off valve near
the water heater.
practical at the time the appliance installation.
The sediment trap shall be either a tee fitting
with a capped nipple in the bottom outlet or
other device recognized as an effective sediment
trap.
Do not use excessive force over 31.5 ft. lbs.
(42.7 N
combination gas control inlet, particularly if
teflon pipe compound is used, as the valve body
may be damaged.
The inlet gas pressure to the water heater must
not exceed 14.0 in. w.c. (3.5 kPa) w.c. for
natural gas, or 14.0 in. w.c.
(3.5 kPa) w.c. for LP gas. For purposes of input
adjustment, the minimum inlet gas pressure
(with main burner on) is shown on the water
heater rating plate. If high or low gas pressures
are present, contact your gas supplier for
correction.
The factory connections to the combination gas
control should also be leak tested after the water
heater is placed in operation.
●m) in tightening the pipe joint at the
Use a soapy water solution to test for leaks
at all connections and fittings. Bubbles
indicate a gas leak that must be corrected.
10
Pressure Testing the Gas Supply System
!
The water heater and its individual shutoff valve must be disconnected from the
gas supply piping system during any pressure testing of that system at test pressures
in excess 1/2 psi (3.5 kPa).
The water heater must be isolated from the
gas supply piping system by closing its
individual manual gas shutoff valve during
any pressure testing of the gas supply at
test pressures equal to or less than 1/2 psi
(3.5 kPa).
WARNING: Failure
to install a water heater
suitable for the altitude at
the location it is intended
to serve, can result in
improper operation of
the appliance resulting
in property damage and/
or producing carbon
monoxide gas, which could
result in personal injury, or
death.
DANGER: Failure to
properly install the vent
and combustion air-inlet
systems as outlined in the
Vent and Combustion AirInlet section of this manual
will result in unsafe
operation of the water
heater causing bodily
injury, explosion, fire or
death.
To avoid the risk of fire,
explosion, or asphyxiation
from carbon monoxide,
NEVER operate the
water heater unless it is
properly vented and the
vent and combustion airinlet systems are properly
installed as detailed in the
"Vent and Combustion
Air-Inlet" section of this
manual.
NOTICE: The combustion
air-inlet system pipe and
ttings are not required to
be certied to ULC-S636.
High Altitude
Input rating of this water heater is based on
sea level operation. At higher elevations
the actual input rate may be lower than the
value listed on the rating label due to the
derating of Natural Gas and LP Gas. This
water heater can be installed at elevations
up to 5,999 ft. (1,828 m) above sea level.
Vent and Combustion Air-Inlet
This water heater is a direct vent appliance and must be installed so that all the
air for combustion is derived directly from
the outside atmosphere and all the flue
gases are discharged to the outside atmosphere. For proper installation of the vent
and combustion air-inlet systems, follow
the instructions as detailed in this manual
and those per the current edition of CAN/
CSA B149.1 Natural Gas and Propane
Installation Code. DO NOT connect this
water heater to an existing vent or chimney - it must be vented separately from all
other appliances.
This water heater must be vented to the
outdoors with a venting system that is
certified to the Underwriter’s Laboratories
of Canada Standard, ULC-S636 (Current
Edition).
The vent system must be installed in
accordance with the vent system manufacturer’s installation instructions.
The first 3 ft. (90 cm) from the appliance
flue outlet must be readily accessible for
visible inspection.
NOTICE: This unit must be vented
using only 2 in. (5.1 cm), 3 in. (7.6 cm) or
4 in. (10.2 cm) diameter PVC or CPVC
pipe and fittings that are certified to
ULC-S636, refer to pages 11 through
28 for approved diameters and allowable equivalent lengths by water heater
model.
IMPORTANT: For 50 Gallon Models
with inputs of 65,000 & 47,000 Btu/
hr. and 75 Gallon Power Direct Vent
Models ONLY: The first 10 ft. (3 m)
equivalent vent system length from the
blower assembly must be of ULC-S636
approved CPVC pipe and fittings.
Use only ULC-S636 approved CPVC
pipe and fittings for the vent system
if the water heater is to be installed in
a location where it may be subjected
to ambient temperatures above 100°F
(38°C).
Vent and combustion air-inlet systems must
be adequately supported along both vertical
and horizontal lengths.
11
Installing the Water Heater
NOTICE: This unit
is equipped with a
Flammable Vapour
Sensor. Do not supply
electrical power to
the water heater
until enough time
has passed to allow
the vapours from the
primer and cement to
dissipate.
Vent and Combustion Air-Inlet continued -
Ambient Installation Temperatures and Vent System Material Specications
Up to 100°F (38°C) 100°F (38°C) to 125°F (52°C)
0 to 10 ft.
(0 to 3 m)
Equivalent Vent|
Models
40 Gallon, 40,000 &
38,000 Btu/hr. Models,
50 Gallon, 40,000 Btu/
hr. Models,
65 Gallon, 65,000 &
56,000 Btu/hr. Models
50 Gallon, 65,000 &
47,000 Btu/hr. Models,
75 Gallon, 75,100 &
70,000 Btu/hr. Models
System Length
PVC, or CPVC
CPVC PVC, or CPVC
NOTE: This water heater may be installed in attics provided ambient temperatures do
not exceed 125°F (52°C) and CPVC pipe and ttings that are certied to ULC-S636 are
used for the entire vent system.
10 ft. to Max.
(0 m to Max.)
Equivalent Vent
System Length
0 to 10 ft.
(0 to 3 m)
Equivalent Vent
System Length
CPVC PVC, or CPVC
10 ft. to Max.
(0 m to Max.)
Equivalent Vent
System Length
The vent and combustion air-inlet systems of this
water heater may be installed horizontally through
a wall or vertically through the roof.
Maximum unsupported length is recommended to
be no more than 4 ft. (1.22 m).
NOTICE: It is imperative that the first hanger
be located on the horizontal length immediately
adjacent to the first 90-degree elbow from the
vertical rise of vent pipe connected to the water
heater.
The support method used should isolate the vent
and combustion air-inlet pipes from floor joists or
other structural members to help prevent the transmission of noise and vibration.
Do not support, pin or otherwise secure the vent
and combustion air-inlet systems in a way that
restricts the normal thermal expansion and contraction of the chosen venting material.
If the water heater is being installed as a replacement for an existing power direct vent water heater, a thorough inspection of the existing vent and
combustion air-inlet systems must be performed
prior to any installation work. The existing vent
must be code compliant.
Verify that the correct materials as specified
in this manual have been used, and that the
minimum or maximum vent and combustion
air-inlet lengths and terminal locations as
detailed in this manual have been met.
Carefully inspect the entire vent and combus-
tion air-inlet systems for any signs of cracks
or fractures, particularly at the joints between
elbows or other fittings and the straight
length of vent pipe.
Check the vent and combustion air-inlet for
signs of sagging or other stresses in the joints
as a result of misalignment of any components in the systems.
If any of the conditions above are found, they
must be corrected in accordance with the
instructions in this manual before completing
the installation and putting the water heater
into service.
12
Maximum and Minimum Vent and Combustion Air-Inlet Lengths for Power
Direct Vent Models:
40 Gallon with Inputs of 40,000 & 38,000 Btu/h
50 Gallon with Input of 40,000 Btu/h
Read these instructions thoroughly and make
sure you understand all steps and procedures
before proceeding with the installation.
1. Connect the ULC-636 approved vent system piping to the blower assembly using
the already installed 2 in. (5.1 cm) diameter
rubber coupling and clamps.
2. Connect the combustion air-inlet system
piping to the combustion air-inlet piping tee using the 2 in. (5.1 cm) already
installed rubber coupling and clamps (See
Figure 1).
3. For vent and combustion air-inlet terminals, use the two (2), 2 in. (5.1 cm) diameter, Schedule 40, PVC, 90°, 1/4 standard
bend, ULC-S636 approved elbows supplied
with the water heater.
This water heater may also be installed with
3 in. (7.6 cm) diameter pipe and fittings for the
vent and combustion air-inlet systems.
To connect the vent system piping,
● Install a straight length of 2 in. (5.1 cm)
diameter, ULC-S636 approved pipe to the
rubber coupling on the blower assembly,
Followed by a 2 in. (5.1 cm) to 3 in.
●
(7.6 cm) diameter, ULC-S636 approved pipe
increaser fitting (See Figure 2).
For the vent terminal,
Use a 3 in. (7.6 cm) diameter, Schedule 40,
●
PVC, 90°, 1/4 standard bend, ULC-S636
approved elbow. To connect the combustion
air-inlet system piping,
Install a straight length of 2 in. (5.1 cm)
●
diameter pipe to the combustion air-inlet
piping tee coupling,
Followed by a 2 in. (5.1 cm) to 3 in.
●
(7.6 cm) diameter pipe increaser fitting (See
Figure 2).
For the combustion air-inlet terminal,
Use a 3 in. (7.6 cm) diameter,
●
Schedule 40, PVC, 90°, 1/4 standard bend
elbow.
DO NOT use unequal diameters of pipe and
fittings for the vent and combustion air-inlet
systems except as defined previously.
Note: The difference between the vent and
combustion air-inlet system equivalent lengths
must be no greater than 5 ft. (1.5 m).
IMPORTANT: Ensure that all the coupling
clamps are tightened before allowing the water
heater to operate.When using CPVC pipe and
fittings,
● Use a 90°, ULC-S636 approved elbow of the
corresponding size and material for the vent
terminal,
Use a 90° CPVC elbow for the combustion
●
air-inlet terminal.
The vent and combustion air-inlet terminals of
the water heater must be installed in the same
atmospheric pressure zone.
The minimum and maximum equivalent lengths
for the vent and combustion air-inlet systems
are shown in Table 1.
Maintain a minimum vertical height of 1 ft.
●
(30.5 cm) of pipe, including pipe increasers
(if used), from the blower exhaust coupling
before transitioning into any elbow.
The vent and combustion air-inlet termina-
●
tions are not included in the equivalency
calculations.
NOTICE: A 90°, 1/4 standard bend or long
bend elbow is equivalent to 5 ft. (1.52 m) of
straight pipe. A 45°, 1/8 standard bend or
long bend elbow is equivalent to 2.5 ft. (0.76
m) of straight pipe.
DO NOT use short bend elbows. Use only
standard and/or long bend elbows. See examples.
13
Installing the Water Heater
Elbow Examples
Figure 1
Vent
Short Bend 90° Elbow
Do Not Use
Combustion air-inlet
2 in.
(5.1 cm)
pipe
diameter
Standard Bend 90° Elbow
# Min. 2 1/2 in.
(6.4 cm) to 6
in. (15.2 cm)
Max. Spacing
Figure 2
OK to Use
Vent
#
3 in.
(7.6 cm)
pipe diameter
2 in.
(5.1cm)
pipe
diameter
Long Bend 90° Elbow
OK to Use
Combustion air-inlet
#
# Min. 2 1/2 in.
(6.4 cm) to 6
in. (15.2 cm)
Max. Spacing
Table 1
From Sea Level through 5,999 ft. (1,828 m) Above Sea Level
Vent &
Combustion
Air-Inlet System
Diameter
Model
40 Gallon, 40,000
& 38,000 Btu/h
Models
50 Gallon, 40,000
Btu/hr. Models
*
Use only Rheem 3 in. (7.6 cm) concentric termination.
2 7 2 30 9 90° Elbows Concentric*
3 7 2 60 18 90° Elbows
3 7 2 50 15 Concentric*
2 7 2 30 9 90° Elbows Concentric*
3 7 2 60 18 90° Elbows
3 7 2 50 15 Concentric*
Min. Allowed Equivalent
Vent & Combustion Air-
Inlet Lengths (Each Pipe
Run)
14
Max. Allowed Equivalent
Vent & Combustion Air-Inlet
Lengths (Each Pipe Run)
Vent and Combustion
Air-Inlet System
Termination(s)Inches Feet Meters Feet Meters
Maximum and Minimum Vent and Combustion Air-Inlet Lengths For Power
Direct Vent Models:
50 Gallon With Inputs of 65,000 & 47,000 Btu/h
65 Gallon With Inputs of 65,000 & 56,000 Btu/h
75 Gallon With Inputs of 75,100 & 70,000 Btu/h
Read these instructions thoroughly and make
sure you understand all steps and procedures
before proceeding with the installation.
1. Connect the ULC-636 approved vent system piping to the blower assembly using
the already installed 3 in. (7.6 cm) diameter
rubber coupling and clamps.
2. Connect the combustion air-inlet system
piping to the combustion air-inlet piping tee using the 3 in. (7.6 cm) already
installed rubber coupling and clamps (See
Figure 3).
3. For vent and combustion air-inlet terminals, use the two (2), 3 in. (7.6 cm) diameter, Schedule 40, PVC, 90°, 1/4 standard
bend, ULC-S636 approved elbows supplied
with the water heater.
This water heater may also be installed with
4 in. (10.2 cm) diameter pipe and fittings for
the vent and combustion air-inlet systems.
To connect the vent system piping,
Install a straight length of 3 in. (7.6 cm)
●
diameter, ULC-S636 approved pipe to the
rubber coupling on the blower assembly,
● Followed by a 3 in. (7.6 cm) to 4 in.
(10.2 cm) diameter, ULC-S636 approved
pipe increaser fitting (See Figure 4).
For the vent terminal,
Use a 4 in. (10.2 cm) diameter, Schedule 40,
●
PVC, 90°, 1/4 standard bend, ULC-S636
approved elbow.
To connect the combustion air-inlet system piping,
Install a straight length of 3 in. (7.6 cm)
●
diameter pipe to the combustion air-inlet
piping tee coupling,
Followed by a 3 in. (7.6 cm) to 4 in.
●
(10.2 cm) diameter pipe increaser fitting
(See Figure 4).
For the combustion air-inlet terminal,
●
Use a 4 in. (10.2 cm) diameter, Schedule 40,
PVC, 90°, 1/4 standard bend elbow.
DO NOT use unequal diameters of pipe and
fittings for the vent and combustion air-inlet
systems except as defined previously.
NOTICE: The difference between the vent
and combustion air-inlet system equivalent
lengths must be no greater than 5 ft. (1.5 m).
IMPORTANT: Ensure that all the coupling
clamps are tight before allowing the water
heater to operate.
When using CPVC pipe and fittings,
Use a 90°, ULC-S636 approved elbow of
●
the corresponding size and material for the
vent terminal,
Use a 90° CPVC elbow for the combustion
●
air-inlet terminal elbows.
The vent and combustion air-inlet terminals
of the water heater must be installed in the
same atmospheric pressure zone.
The minimum and maximum equivalent lengths
for the vent and combustion air-inlet systems
are shown in Table 2.
Maintain a minimum vertical height of 1 ft.
●
(30.5 cm) of pipe, including pipe increasers
(if used), from the blower exhaust coupling
before transitioning into any elbow.
The vent and combustion air-inlet termina-
●
tions are not included in the equivalency
calculations.
NOTICE: A 90°, 1/4 standard bend or long
bend elbow is equivalent to 5 ft. (1.52 m) of
straight pipe. A 45°, 1/8 standard bend or
long bend elbow is equivalent to 2.5 ft.
(0.76 m) of straight pipe.
DO NOT use short bend elbows. See examples
below.
15