Rheem Solar Hiline Water Heater Owner's Manual And Installation Instructions
This water heater must be installed and serviced by a qualified person.
Please leave this guide with the householder.
Owner’s Guide
and
Installation Instructions
Solar Hiline 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 pipe work between the solar Hiline storage tank and the solar
collector(s) are supplied in the pipe kit. The supplied copper solar hot and solar cold pipes MUST BE
used.
If the solar water heater is installed either on a metal roof or in a trafficable area, such as on an
accessible roof, then the solar hot and solar cold pipes must be insulated. The solar hot and solar
cold pipes may be required to be insulated to comply with local regulations.
If insulation is required, 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
be fitted up to and cover the connections on both the solar storage tank and the solar collectors.
The insulation 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 collector(s) under stagnation conditions. The solar collector(s) 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.
There must be a continuous fall of a minimum 10° in the pipe work from the solar Hiline storage
tank to the solar collector(s). The highest point of the solar cold pipe and solar hot pipe must be
where they connect to the solar Hiline storage tank, otherwise thermosiphoning will not occur.
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.
The solar water heater, including the collector circuit and solar collectors, is to be isolated during the
testing and commissioning of the heated water reticulation system in a building, in accordance with
Clause 11.1 and 11.3 (a) of AS/NZS 3500.4.
3
CONTENTS
HOUSEHOLDER – We recommend you read pages 4 to 18.
The other pages are intended for the installer but may be of interest.
About Your Water Heater ............................................................................................................ 4
Regular Care .............................................................................................................................. 10
Water Supplies ........................................................................................................................... 13
Save A Service Call ................................................................................................................... 16
Installation – Solar Storage Tank ............................................................................................. 19
Installation – Solar Collectors .................................................................................................. 27
Connections – Plumbing .......................................................................................................... 30
Connections – Electrical ........................................................................................................... 33
Multiple Installations ................................................................................................................. 36
Commissioning .......................................................................................................................... 38
Draining The Solar Collectors .................................................................................................. 39
Draining The Water Heater ....................................................................................................... 39
Flushing The Water Heater ....................................................................................................... 40
Warranty ..................................................................................................................................... 43
4
ABOUT YOUR WATER HEATER
WATER HEATER APPLICATION
This water heater is designed for use in a single family domestic dwelling for the purpose of heating potable
water. Its use in an application other than this may shorten its life.
MODEL TYPE
Your Rheem® solar Hiline™ water heater is designed for both the solar collectors and the solar storage tank
to be roof mounted. The solar storage tank has a Colorbond jacket and is suitable for installation with Rheem
NPT 200 solar collectors.
The system does not have freeze protection. The system is not suitable for installation in areas subject to
frost or freeze conditions. Freeze conditions occur below 6°C. The system has NO WARRANTY for freeze
damage (refer to “Terms of the Rheem Warranty” on page 43).
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 solar Hiline system has its vitreous enamel lined solar
storage tank installed on the roof directly coupled to the solar
collectors. It works on the simple scientific fact that hot water rises.
As the sun heats the water in the solar collectors, the increase in
temperature causes the water to rise through an insulated copper
pipe into the storage tank. This allows cooler water from the solar
storage tank to flow into 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 approximately 75°C.
Automatic safety controls are fitted to the water heater to provide
safe and efficient operation.
SUNSTAT VALVE
The Sunstat valve limits the water temperature in the solar storage tank to a maximum of approximately
75°C. The valve:
Limits excessively high (scalding) water temperatures.
Reduces the discharge of hot water from the temperature pressure relief valve caused by high water
temperatures.
Prevents the over temperature energy cut out on the electric thermostat from activating unnecessarily.
ABOUT YOUR WATER HEATER
5
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 solar Hiline 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 side cover. The water temperature is
automatically controlled to the thermostat setting when the booster heating unit is energised.
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 21, a pressure limiting valve must be
fitted. The supply pressure should be greater than 350 kPa for true mains pressure operation to be achieved.
HOW HOT SHOULD THE WATER BE?
The water heater is fitted with a Rheem Sunstat® valve which
limits the solar heated water to a maximum of approximately
75°C.
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 7.
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 booster setting
maximum recommended
supply temperature to
bathrooms and ensuites
minimum 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 power for the electrically operated components. The removal of the side
cover will expose 240 V wiring. It must only be removed by a qualified person.
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 a
qualified person.
If the electrical conduit to the solar storage tank is damaged, it must be replaced by a qualified person in
order to avoid a hazard. Phone Rheem Service or their nearest Accredited Service Agent to arrange for an
inspection.
Warning: For continued safety of this water heater it must be installed, operated and maintained in
accordance with the Owner‟s Guide and Installation Instructions.
The Rheem warranty may not cover faults if relief valves or other safety devices are tampered with or
if the installation is not in accordance with these instructions.
PRECAUTIONS
Where damage to property can occur in the event of the water heater leaking, the water heater must be
installed in a safe tray. Construction, installation and draining of a safe tray must comply with AS/NZS 3500.4
and all local codes and regulatory authority requirements.
The water heater must be maintained in accordance with the Owner‟s Guide and Installation Instructions.
Refer to “Regular Care” on page 10.
If this water heater is to be used where an uninterrupted hot water supply is necessary for your application or
business you should ensure that you have back up redundancy within the hot water system design. This
should ensure the continuity of hot water supply in the event that this water heater were to become
inoperable for any reason. We recommend you seek advice from your plumber or specifier about your needs
and building back up redundancy into your hot water supply system.
TEMPERATURE RUN DOWN
Temperature run down is the reduction in water temperature as the hotter water at the top of the storage
cylinder transfers some of its heat to the cooler water in the lower section of the cylinder.
This effect is often perceived as heat loss, but is actually the redistribution of stored heat more evenly over
the entire contents of the storage tank. This heat is not lost to the system. This may make it necessary to use
the booster to raise the water in the top section of the cylinder back to an acceptable temperature.
Over-night temperature run down is most evident in the morning if the booster switch or time clock is left OFF
over-night. It is more prevalent the more hot water is used the night before and also in the cooler months.
Day time temperature run down is quite evident on days of lower solar radiation particularly during the cooler
months if the power to the booster heating element is not available, or the booster switch or time clock is left
OFF.
If higher temperature water is required, particularly in the morning, then use of the booster heating unit is
necessary to raise the temperature of the water in the top section of the cylinder. Refer to “Booster Control”
on page 7.
ABOUT YOUR WATER HEATER
7
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 the solar Hiline storage tank will be
160 litres (300 litre model), or 80 litres (160 litre model).
Timer Control Switch
A 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,
and
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.
ABOUT YOUR WATER HEATER
8
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
160
Cool / temperate climate
10°C
50°C
2 hours
1 ½ hours
1 hour
Temperate / sub tropical climate
15°C
45°C
2 hours
1 ¼ hours
1 hour Tropical climate
20°C
40°C
1 ¾ hours
1 ¼ hours
1 hour
300
Cool / temperate climate
10°C
50°C
3 ¾ hours
2 ½ hours
2 hours
Temperate / sub tropical climate
15°C
45°C
3 ½ hours
2 ¼ hours
1 ¾ hours Tropical climate
20°C
40°C
3 hours
2 hours
1 ½ 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.
PIPE WORK AND INSULATION
The solar hot and solar cold pipe work between the solar Hiline storage tank and the solar collector(s) are
supplied in the pipe kit. The supplied copper solar hot and solar cold pipes MUST BE used.
If the solar water heater is installed either on a metal roof or in a trafficable area, such as on an accessible
roof, then the solar hot and solar cold pipes must be insulated. The solar hot and solar cold pipes may be
required to be insulated to comply with local regulations.
If insulation is required, 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
be fitted up to and cover the connections on both the solar storage tank and the solar collectors.
The insulation 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 29).
The pipe work between the solar storage tank and in-series booster (if one is installed) MUST BE of copper
and fully insulated with a closed cell type insulation or equivalent (minimum thickness 13 mm).
ABOUT YOUR WATER HEATER
9
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.
Close the cold water isolation valve at the inlet to the water heater.
TO TURN ON THE WATER HEATER
Open the cold water isolation valve fully at the inlet to the water heater.
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.
GOING ON HOLIDAYS
If you plan to be away from home, conserve energy by switching the booster switch “OFF”. Refer to “To Turn
Off The Water Heater” on page 9. Also if the system is not used for a period in excess of 4 weeks it is
recommended the solar collectors be covered.
HOW DO I KNOW IF THE WATER HEATER IS INSTALLED CORRECTLY?
Installation requirements are shown on pages 25 to 26, 36 and 37. The water heater must be installed:
by a qualified person, and
in accordance with the installation instructions, and
in compliance with Standards AS/NZS 3500.4, AS/NZS 3000 and all local codes and regulatory authority
requirements.
In New Zealand, the installation must also conform with Clause G12 of the New Zealand Building Code.
VICTORIAN CUSTOMERS
Notice to Victorian Customers from the Victorian Plumbing Industry Commission. This water heater must be
installed by a licensed person as required by the Victorian Building Act 1993.
Only a licensed person will give you a Compliance Certificate, showing that the work complies with all the
relevant Standards. Only a licensed person will have insurance protecting their workmanship for 6 years.
Make sure you use a licensed person to install this water heater and ask for your Compliance Certificate.
DOES THE WATER CHEMISTRY AFFECT THE WATER HEATER?
The water heater is suitable for most public water supplies, however some water chemistries may have
detrimental effects on the water heater, its components and fittings. Refer to “Water Supplies” on page 13.
If you are in a known harsh water area or you are not sure of your water chemistry, have your water checked
against the conditions described on pages 13 to 15.
HOW LONG WILL THE WATER HEATER LAST?
The water heater is supported by a manufacturer‟s warranty (refer to page 43). There are a number of
factors that will affect the length of service the water heater will provide. These include but are not limited to
the water chemistry, the water pressure, the water temperature (inlet and outlet) and the water usage
pattern. Refer to “Precautions” on page 6.
10
REGULAR CARE
MINOR SIX MONTH MAINTENANCE
It is recommended minor maintenance be performed every six months by the dwelling occupant.
The minor maintenance includes:
Operate the easing lever on the temperature pressure relief valve (if accessible). It is very important you
pull the cord to operate the lever gently. Refer to “Temperature Pressure Relief Valve” on page 11.
If the pull cord does not operate correctly and the relief valve lever is not readily and safely accessible,
contact Rheem Service or their nearest Accredited Service Agent. Do not attempt to climb onto a non
trafficable roof to operate the relief valve lever.
Warning: Exercise care to avoid any splashing of water, as water discharged from the drain line will
be hot. Stand clear of the drain line‟s point of discharge when operating the valve‟s lever.
Operate the easing lever on the expansion control valve (if fitted). It is very important you raise and
lower the lever gently. Refer to “Expansion Control Valve” on page 11.
Check the drain line from the safe tray (if one is installed) is not blocked.
MAJOR FIVE YEAR SERVICE
It is recommended a major five year service be conducted on the water heater.
Warning: Servicing of a water heater must only be carried out by a qualified person. Phone Rheem
Service or their nearest Accredited Service Agent.
Note: The five year service and routine replacement of any components, such as the anode and relief
valves, are not included in the Rheem warranty. A charge will be made for this work. Only genuine
replacement parts should be used on this water heater.
The major service includes the following actions:
Replace the temperature pressure relief valve.
Inspect and flush the expansion control valve (if fitted). If required, replace the valve.
Inspect and if required, replace the anode.
If the anode is not replaced, it should be replaced within three years of this service (refer to “Anode
Inspection and Replacement” on page 14).
Check the booster heating unit for excessive calcium build up or corrosion and replace if necessary.
Clean the collector glass.
Visually check the unit for any potential problems.
Inspect all connections.
Check the drain line from the safe tray (if one is installed) is not blocked.
Note: The solar storage tank may need to be drained during this service. After the completion of the service,
the solar storage tank will take some time to reheat the water by solar gain. Depending upon the power
supply connection to the booster heating unit, hot water may not be available until the next day.
REGULAR CARE
11
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 17).
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. This is achieved by gently pulling
the cord attached to the lever. It is very important you pull
and release the cord gently.
DANGER: Failure to do this may result in the water heater
cylinder failing, or under certain circumstances, exploding.
Warning: Exercise care to avoid any splashing of water, as
water discharged from the drain line will be hot. Stand clear of
the drain line‟s point of discharge when operating the valve‟s
lever.
If water does not flow freely from the drain line when the lever is lifted, then the water heater must be
checked. Phone Rheem Service or their nearest Accredited Service Agent to arrange for an inspection.
The temperature pressure relief valve should be replaced at intervals not exceeding 5 years, or more
frequently in areas where there is a high incidence of water deposits (refer to “Water Supplies” on page 13).
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
pull cord until
water flows
from the drain
line – release
drain
line
REGULAR CARE
12
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 by a person qualified to do so and in the morning within three hours of sunrise, when the water
temperature inside the solar collector(s) is lower.
Warning: Care must be exercised to avoid splashing of water, as water discharged from the solar
collector(s) and solar storage tank may be of a very high temperature.
It is recommended to have the solar collectors flushed every five years. This will assist in keeping the solar
collectors, solar cold pipe and solar hot pipe clear of sediment.
13
WATER SUPPLIES
This water heater must be installed in accordance with this advice to be covered by the Rheem
warranty.
This water heater is manufactured to suit the water conditions of most public reticulated water supplies.
However, there are some known water chemistries which can have detrimental effects on the water heater
and its operation and/or life expectancy. If you are unsure of your water chemistry, you may be able to obtain
information from your local water supply authority. This water heater should only be connected to a water
supply which complies with these guidelines for the Rheem warranty to apply.
CHANGE OF WATER SUPPLY
The changing or alternating from one water supply to another can have a detrimental effect on the operation
and / or life expectation of a water heater cylinder, a temperature pressure relief valve, a heating unit and a
solar collector in 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 the Rheem warranty to apply.
ANODE
The vitreous enamel lined cylinder of the water heater is only covered by the Rheem warranty when the total
dissolved solids (TDS) content in the water is less than 2500 mg/L and when the correct colour coded anode
is used. If an incorrect colour coded anode is used in the water heater, any resultant faults will not be
covered by the Rheem warranty. In addition, the use of an incorrect colour coded anode may shorten the life
of the water heater cylinder.
The correct colour coded anode must be selected and fitted to the water heater in accordance with the
following advice and the Anode Selection chart on page 13 for the Rheem 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 an anode must be carried out by a qualified person.
Note: Some water analysis reports may state the conductivity of the water rather than the level of total
dissolved solids. Conductivity, measured in microsiemens per centimetre ( µS / cm), is directly proportional to
the TDS content of the water. TDS, in mg / L, is approximately 70% of the conductivity in µS / cm.
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
14
ANODE INSPECTION AND REPLACEMENT
The anode installed in a vitreous enamel lined steel water heater cylinder will slowly dissipate whilst
protecting the cylinder. The life of the cylinder may be extended by replacing the anode.
If the anode is not replaced during a five year service (refer to “Major Five Year Service” on page 10) then
the maximum time after installation when the anode should be replaced 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 replaced
within 5 years of installation.
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 the Rheem 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 the Rheem 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 the Rheem 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, the Rheem 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 the Rheem 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 15.
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 30 for the position of the expansion control valve.
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