Rheem Stellar 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
Stainless Steel
Electric Domestic Water Heater
PATENTS
This water heater may be protected by one or more patents or registered designs
in the name of Rheem Australia Pty Ltd or Aquamax Australia Pty Limited.
TRADEMARKS
® Registered trademark of Rheem Australia Pty Ltd.
TM Trademark of Rheem Australia Pty Ltd.
Note: Every care has been taken to ensure the accuracy in preparation of this
publication. No liability can be accepted for any consequences,
which may arise as a result of its application.
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 ................................................................................ 9
Water Supplies ........................................................................... 12
Save A Service Call ................................................................... 16
Installation .................................................................................. 19
Connections – Plumbing .......................................................... 27
Connections – Electrical ........................................................... 31
Commissioning .......................................................................... 33
Draining The Water Heater ....................................................... 34
Warranty ..................................................................................... 38
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
The Rheem® water heater you have chosen is a Stellar™ model with a
stainless steel cylinder. Stellar stainless steel models are available with a single
heating unit (refer to “Single Element Model” on page 7). The water heaters can
be installed indoor or outdoor.
The water in the cylinder is heated by the electric immersion heating unit. A
thermostat controls the temperature. Automatic safety controls are fitted to the
water heater to provide safe and efficient operation.
The water heater has a brass plug on one side of the tank. The plug blocks off
an alternative cold water connection point and is not to be tampered with or
removed.
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 features a
tradesperson adjustable thermostat,
which allows you to choose the most
suitable temperature for your hot water
needs. Refer to “Temperature
Adjustment” on page 6.
To meet the requirements of the
National Plumbing Standard the
temperature of the stored water must
not be below 60°C.
maximum thermostat
setting
minimum thermostat
setting and minimum
recommended stored water
temperature.
maximum recommended
supply temperature to
bathrooms and ensuites
ABOUT YOUR WATER HEATER
5
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 the 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.
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 front cover(s) will expose 240 V wiring. It must
only be removed by a qualified person.
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 water heater 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.
ABOUT YOUR WATER HEATER
6
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 9.
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.
THERMOSTAT
The thermostat automatically controls the electricity supply to the heating unit
so a constant temperature is maintained. The thermostat and its protective
over-temperature cut-out is mounted inside the front cover of the water heater.
There is no need to switch the water heater off when it is not in use, except
when you are on an extended holiday. The thermostat is fully automatic and
power is only used when heating is required.
TEMPERATURE ADJUSTMENT
This 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 75°C and a minimum temperature
setting of 60°C.
We advise you have your electrician adjust the thermostat to the lowest
temperature setting that meets your needs, especially if there are young
children or elderly people in your home. Refer to “Hotter Water Increases The
Risk of Scald Injury” on page 5.
ABOUT YOUR WATER HEATER
7
SINGLE ELEMENT MODEL
This type of water heater has one heating unit with
its own thermostat. The heating unit is at the base
of the water heater and can be connected to a
Continuous or Off-Peak electricity supply. The
thermostat is factory set to 65°C and is
tradesperson adjustable between 60°C to 75°C.
Continuous electricity supply
This type of connection is suited to where the
storage capacity is less than the normal daily
usage.
Off-Peak electricity supply
This type of connection will only allow heating
to occur during set hours. A volume of water
sufficient for the day’s total use is heated and
stored. This type of heating will be more
economical due to reduced tariffs by the
electricity authority.
TO TURN OFF THE WATER HEATER
If you plan to be away from home for only 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 water heater.
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 on the cold water line to the water
heater.
Switch on the electrical supply at the isolating switch to the water heater.
GOING ON HOLIDAY?
If you plan to be away from home for one or two nights, we suggest you leave
the water heater switched on. However, if you plan to stay away more than a
few nights, conserve energy by switching the water heater off at either the
switchboard or isolating switch (if one is installed).
Note: When the electrical supply is switched back on, the water heater will take
some time to reheat the water. Depending upon the power supply connection,
hot water may not be available until the next day.
ABOUT YOUR WATER HEATER
8
HOW DO I KNOW IF THE WATER HEATER IS INSTALLED CORRECTLY?
Installation requirements are shown on pages 19 to 25. 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 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 12.
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 12 to 15.
HOW LONG WILL THE WATER HEATER LAST?
The water heater is supported by a manufacturer’s warranty (refer to page 38).
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.
9
REGULAR CARE
MAJOR FIVE YEAR SERVICE
It is recommended a major five (5) year service be conducted on the water
heater.
Warning: Servicing of a water heater must only be carried out by qualified
personnel. Phone Rheem Service or their nearest Accredited Service Agent.
Note: The five (5) year service and routine replacement of any components,
such as the relief valve(s), 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.
Check the electric heating unit for excessive calcium build up or corrosion
and replace if necessary.
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 water heater may need to be drained during this service. After the
completion of the service, the water heater will take some time to reheat the
water. Depending upon the power supply connection, hot water may not be
available until the next day.
REGULAR CARE
10
MINOR SIX MONTH MAINTENANCE
It is recommended minor maintenance be performed every six (6) months by
the dwelling occupant.
The minor maintenance includes:
Operate the easing lever on the temperature pressure relief valve. It is very
important you raise and lower the lever gently. Refer to “Temperature
Pressure Relief Valve” on page 11.
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 10.
Check the drain line from the safe tray (if one is installed) is not blocked.
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 (6)
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.
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 (6) months. It is very important
you raise and lower the lever gently.
DANGER: Failure to do this may result
in the water heater cylinder failing, or under
certain circumstances, exploding.
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 five (5) years, or more frequently in areas where there is a high
incidence of water deposits (refer to “Water Supplies” on page 12).
water
heater
drain
line
lift until water
flows from the
drain line – lower
gently
12
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.
A list of postcodes is available on the Rheem website (www.rheem.com.au)
indicating known areas where the stainless steel cylinder is not covered by the
Rheem warranty due to the water chemistry of the area. The list is not
necessarily exhaustive and there may be areas outside of these postcodes
where the stainless steel cylinder is not covered by the Rheem warranty due to
the water chemistry of the area.
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,
which takes precedence over the list of postcodes, for the Rheem warranty to
apply.
It is recommended to install a suitable filter on the cold water supply line to the
water heater if the water supply contains or has a future risk of containing
suspended solids. The Rheem warranty will not cover resultant faults on
components including the stainless steel cylinder due to the effects of sludge
and / or sediment settling in the water heater.
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 and a heating unit.
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.
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