Residential 40
!
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
PowerDirectVent
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!
!
California Proposition 65 Warning: This product contains chemicals known
!
to the State of California to cause cancer, birth defects or other reproductive
harm.
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 vapors or liquids or other
combustible materials in the vicinity of this or
any other appliance. To do so may result in an
explosion or fire.
— WHAT TO DO IF YOU SMELL GAS
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.
I
S
G
E
N
D
Printed in USA
C
E
D
R
E
I
T
F
I
®
AP14896-3 (06/11)
Safety Information
Safety Precautions . . . . . . . 3–6
LP Gas Models . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Installing the Water Heater
Location . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Water Supply Connections . . 8
Gas Supply . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Vent and Combustion
Air-Inlet . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11-27
Condensate Management . . .28
Wiring Diagram . . . . . . . . . . .29
Pipe Insulation . . . . . . . . . . . .30
Heat Traps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .31
Installation Checklist . . . . . . .32
Potable/Space Heating . . . . 33
Operating Instructions
Lighting Instructions . . . . . . 34
Water Temperature . . . . . 35-37
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 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
Vent System Inspection . . . . 39
Burner Inspection . . . . . . . . 39
Extended Shut-Down . . . . . .39
Troubleshooting Tips
Before You Call
For Service . . . . . . . . . . . 40-41
LED Codes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .42
Customer Service
Parts List . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43
If You Need Service . . . . . . .44
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 a
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 vapor sensor that will automatically shut
down the water heater in the presence of gasoline vapors and some other flammable vapors. If the
flammable vapor 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 vapor sensor. Do not
submerse the flammable vapor sensor in water. Do not allow the flammable vapor 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 vapors they produce are
extremely dangerous. DO NOT handle, use or store gasoline or other flammable or
combustible materials anywhere near or in the vicinity of a water heater or any other
appliance. Be sure to read and follow 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 35
and 36 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 combination
gas control's display.
VACATION
WARM
COOLER
WARNING
A B C
HOTTER
VERY
HOT
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 PROPANE OR BUTANE)
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.
FOR INSTALLATIONS IN THE STATE OF CALIFORNIA
California Law requires that residential water heaters must be braced, anchored or
strapped to resist falling or horizontal displacement due to earthquake motions. For
residential water heaters up to 52-gallon capacity, a brochure with generic earthquake
bracing instructions can be obtained from: Office of the State Architect, 1102 Q Street,
Suite 5100, Sacramento, CA 95814 or you may call 916-445-8100 or ask a water heater
dealer.
However, applicable local codes shall govern installation. For residential water heaters
of a capacity greater than 52 gallons, consult the local building jurisdiction for acceptable
bracing procedures.
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.
l Read this manual entirely before installing
or operating the water heater.
l Use this appliance only for its intended
purpose as described in this Use and Care
Manual.
l Be sure your appliance is properly installed
in accordance with local codes and the
provided installation instructions.
l 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" on page 44.
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 the American
National Standard/National Fuel Gas Code. A copy can be purchased from either the American Gas
Association, 400 N. Capitol Street NW, Washington, DC 20001 as ANSI standard Z223.1 or National
Fire Protection Association, 1 Batterymarch Park, Quincy, MA 02269 as booklet NFPA 54.
Location
Max.
2.75 in.
(7 cm)
Flammable
Vapor
Sensor
The auxiliary catch pan
installation MUST conform
with local codes.
Notice: DO NOT allow the
catch pan to obstuct the
flammable vapor sensor.
Notice: DO NOT allow the
flammable vapor 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 vapors 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
Vapor Sensor.
Because of natural air movement in a
room or other enclosed space, flammable
vapors can be carried some distance from
where liquids which give off flammable
vapors are to be used or stored. The open
flame of the water heater’s main burner
can ignite these vapors creating a shut
down condition which will not allow the
water heater to ignite.
Rheem Water Heating 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
National Fuel Gas Code, ANSI Z223.1/
NFPA 54, unless otherwise directed by
State and Local code requirements. 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 combustion 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
Corrosive Atmospheres
NOTICE: The
water heater must
not be installed
near an air supply
containing halogenated
hydrocarbons.
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
pressure increase in the water heater and system
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.
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 illustration 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. Refer to the
following illustration for suggested typical
installation.
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 31 & 43.
10"
(25.4 cm)
min.
Top Cap
Alternate installation
detail for models
equipped with a Top Cap.
NOTICE: The National
Fuel Gas Code (NFGC)
mandates a manual
gas shut-off valve: See
(NFGC) for complete
instructions. Local codes
or plumbing authority
requirements may vary
from the instructions or
diagrams provided and
take precedent over these
instructions.
Typical Installation
10" (25.4 cm)
min.
6 in. (15.2 cm) min.
Heat trap
Hot water outlet to
fixtures
Water heater jacket
Temperature and pressure
relief valve
Manual gas shut-off valve
To gas supply
Union
Sediment trap
Cap
Combination gas control
Jacket door
Flammable vapor sensor
Optional catch pan
(if required).
Vent connector
Union (Optional)
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
Blower assembly
Union (Optional)
Heat trap
6 in. (15.2 cm) min.
Shut-off
valve
Shut-off valve
Thermal expansion
tank (if required)
Relief valve discharge
Drain
valve
6 in. (15.2 cm) min. air gap
line to suitable open
drain.
To cold water
supply
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. Local codes shall govern the
installation of relief valves.
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.
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.
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 also 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. This condition is not
Gas Supply
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 should be
installed in the gas line close to the water heater.
The National Fuel Gas Code (NFGC) mandates
a manual gas shutoff valve: See (NFGC) for
complete instructions.
If flexible connectors are used, the maximum
length shall not exceed 36 in. (91.4 cm) and
must meet the requirements in ANSI Z21.24/
CSA 6.10- Connectors for Gas Appliances.
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
A steady flow of water from all hot water
faucet(s) indicates a full water heater.
Do not allow the flammable vapor sensor to
become submerged in water.
unusual, and will disappear after the water
becomes heated. However, if condensation
continues, examine the piping and fittings for
possible leaks.
valve as close to the inlet of the appliance as
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.
●m) in tightening the pipe joint at the
WARNING: Never use
an open flame to test for
gas leaks, as property
damage, personal injury,
or death could result.
10
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.
Use a soapy water solution to test for leaks
at all connections and fittings. Bubbles
indicate a gas leak that must be corrected.
The factory connections to the combination gas
control should also be leak tested after the water
heater is placed in operation.
Pressure Testing the Gas Supply System
!
The water heater and its individual shut-off
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.
The vent and combustion
air inlet pipes must
overlap a minimum of 1/2
in. (1.3 cm) at each joint.
It is important that the
vent and combustion airinlet pipes engage fully
into any pipe fitting and
be kept in that position
until the adhesive has
fully cured. DO NOT
drill or punch holes in the
plastic pipe or fittings.
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. For
Power Direct Vent models listed in the
venting tables that do not show venting
Vent and Combustion Air-Inlet
This water heater is a direct vent appliance and must be installed so that all air
for combustion is derived directly from the
outside atmosphere and all 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. DO NOT
connect this water heater to an existing vent
or chimney - it must be vented separately
from all other appliances.
NOTICE: This water heater is approved
to use the following materials for pipe
of the vent and combustion air-inlet systems:
PVC (Schedule 40, Cellular Core,
ASTM-F891)
PVC (DWV, ASTM-D2665 or
CSA B181.2)
PVC (Schedule 40, ASTM-D1785 or
CSA B137.3)
PVC (SDR Series, ASTM-D2241 or
CSA B137.3)
CPVC (CPVC 4120, ASTM-D2846 or
CSA B137.6)
CPVC (Schedule 40, ASTM-F441 or
CSA B137.3)
CPVC (SDR Series, ASTM-F442)
configurations above 7,700 ft. (2,347 m),
contact the water heater manufacturer for a
required High Altitude Kit that will allow
the specific water heater model to operate
at altitudes between 7,700 ft. (2,347 m) and
10,200 ft. (3,109 m). See page 44.
ABS (Schedule 40, DWV, ASTM-D2661 or
CSA B181.1)
ABS (Schedule 40, DWV, Cellular Core,
ASTM-F628)
This water heater is approved to use the
following materials for the fittings of the
vent and combustion air-intake systems:
PVC (Schedule 40 DWV, ASTM D2665)
CPVC (Schedule 40, ASTM F438)
ABS (Schedule 40 DWV, ASTM D2661)
DO NOT mix ABS pipe and fittings with
PVC or CPVC pipe fittings. Note: It
is acceptable to interchange PVC and
CPVC pipe and fittings.
Vent and combustion air-inlet systems must
be adequately supported along both vertical
and horizontal lengths.
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 feet (1.22 m).
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.
11
Installing the Water Heater
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
NOTICE: This water heater may be installed in attics provided ambient temperatures do not exceed 125°F (52°C) and
CPVC or ABS pipe and ttings are used for the entire vent system.
System Length
PVC, CPVC, or ABS
CPVC or ABS PVC, CPVC, or ABS
10 ft. to Max.
(3 m to Max.)
Equivalent Vent System
Length
0 to 10 ft.
(0 to 3 m)
Equivalent Vent System
Length
CPVC or ABS PVC, CPVC, or ABS
10 ft. to Max.
(3 m to Max.)
Equivalent Vent System
Length
NOTICE: This unit
is equipped with a
Flammable Vapor Sensor.
Do not supply electrical
power to the water heater
until enough time has
passed to allow the vapors
from the primer and
cement to dissipate.
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
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.
Verify that the correct materials as speci-
fied 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 com-
bustion 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.
Additional installation information for The Commonwealth of Massachusetts is located on the back page
of this manual.
12
Read these instructions thoroughly and make
sure you understand all steps and procedures
before proceeding with the installation.
1. Connect the 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
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 airinlet systems.
To connect the vent system piping:
• Install a straight length of 2 in. (5.1 cm) diameter pipe
to the rubber coupling on the blower assembly,
• Followed by a 2 in. (5.1 cm) to 3 in. (7.6 cm) diameter
pipe increaser fitting (See Figure 2).
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 vent and combustion air-inlet terminals,
• Use 3 in. (7.6 cm) diameter, Schedule 40, PVC, 90°,
1/4 standard bend elbows (not supplied).
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
tightened before allowing the water heater to operate.
When using CPVC or ABS pipe and fittings, use 90°
elbows of the corresponding size and material for the vent
terminal and combustion air-inlet terminals.
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 terminations 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 below.
Elbow Examples
Short Bend 90° Elbow
Do Not Use
Vent
(5.1cm)
diameter
Combustion air-inlet
2 in.
pipe
Standard Bend 90° Elbow
Long Bend 90° Elbow
OK to Use OK to Use
Vent
# Min. 2 1/2 in.
(6.4 cm) to
6 in. (15.2 cm)
Max.Spacing
#
3 in.
(7.6 cm) pipe
diameter
2 in.
(5.1cm)
pipe
diameter
Combustion air-inlet
#
# Min. 2 1/2 in.
(6.4 cm) to
6 in. (15.2 cm)
Max. Spacing
Figure 1
Figure 2
13
Installing the Water Heater
Table 1
From Sea Level through 5,999 ft. (1,828 m) Above Sea Level
Model
40 Gallon, 40,000
& 38,000 Btu/hr.
Models
Vent &
Combustion
Air-Inlet System
Diameter
Inches Feet Meters Feet Meters
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)
Max. Allowed Equivalent
Vent & Combustion AirInlet Lengths (Each Pipe
Run)
Vent and Combustion Air-Inlet System
Termination(s)
50 Gallon, 40,000
Btu/hr. Models
From 6,000 ft. (1,828 m) Above Sea Level through 7,700 ft. (2,347 m) Above Sea Level
Model
40 Gallon, 40,000
& 38,000 Btu/hr.
Models
50 Gallon, 40,000
Btu/hr. Models
From 7,701 ft. (2,347 m) Above Sea Level through 10,200 ft. (3,109 m) Above Sea Level
Model
2 7 2 30 9 90° Elbows Concentric*
3 7 2 60 18 90° Elbows
3 7 2 50 15 Concentric*
Vent &
Combustion
Air-Inlet System
Diameter
Inches Feet Meters Feet Meters
2 7 2 15 4.5 90° Elbows
2 7 2 30 9 Concentric*
3 7 2 60 18 90° Elbows
3 7 2 50 15 Concentric*
2 7 2 15 4.5 Concentric*
3 7 2 60 18 90° Elbows
3 7 2 50 15 Concentric*
Vent & Combus-
tion Air-Inlet
System Diameter
Inches Feet Meters Feet Meters
Min. Allowed Equivalent
Vent & Combustion AirInlet Lengths (Each Pipe
Run)
Min. Allowed Equivalent
Vent & Combustion AirInlet Lengths (Each Pipe
Run)
Max. Allowed Equivalent
Vent & Combustion AirInlet Lengths (Each Pipe
Run)
Max. Allowed Equivalent
Vent & Combustion AirInlet Lengths (Each Pipe
Run)
Vent and Combustion Air-Inlet System
Termination(s)
Vent and Combustion Air-Inlet System
Termination(s)
40 Gallon, 40,000
& 38,000 Btu/hr.
Models
50 Gallon, 40,000
Btu/hr. Models
2 7 2 15 4.5 Concentric*
3 7 2 60 18 90° Elbows
3 7 2 50 15 Concentric*
3 7 2 60 18 90° Elbows
3 7 2 50 15 Concentric*
*Use only Rheem 3 in. (7.6 cm) concentric termination.
14
Loading...