Rheem W27, 27 Water Star 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
Rheem 27 Water Star
Continuous Flow Gas Water Heater
874 series - W27 model
PATENTS
This water heater may be protected by one or more patents or registered designs in the name of
Rheem Australia Pty Ltd or Paloma Co., Ltd.
Rheem Australia Pty Ltd is the supplier of the Rheem range of continuous flow gas water heaters,
manufactured by Paloma Co., Ltd., a world leader in water heater technology and manufacture.
TRADEMARKS
®
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: Upon completion of the installation and commissioning of the water heater, leave this guide
with the householder or a responsible officer. DO NOT leave this guide inside of the cover of the water
heater, as it may interfere with the safe operation of the water heater or ignite when the water heater is
turned on.
3
CONTENTS
HOUSEHOLDER - We recommend you read pages 4 to 16.
The other pages are intended for the Installer but may be of interest.
About Your Water Heater ............................................................................................................ 4
Regular Care .............................................................................................................................. 10
Water Supplies ........................................................................................................................... 12
Save A Service Call ................................................................................................................... 14
Installation – Water Heater ....................................................................................................... 17
Connections – Plumbing .......................................................................................................... 23
Connections – Electrical ........................................................................................................... 26
Wiring Diagram .......................................................................................................................... 27
Commissioning .......................................................................................................................... 28
Draining The Water Heater ....................................................................................................... 34
Warranty ..................................................................................................................................... 35
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 27 Water Star® continuous flow gas water heater model you have chosen is for outdoor
installation only. This model has an extended manufacturer‟s warranty (refer to the Rheem warranty on
page 35).
The water heater has a maximum preset outlet temperature setting of:
874 series - 75°C
Water Star water saving function 70°C
A quantity of water is maintained within the Water Star cylinder at a fixed temperature, and water initially
discharged by this water heater at start-up may be at a temperature of up to 70°C before the water
heater normalises to its preset outlet temperature.
Note: This water heater is not suitable for installation or operation as an in-series gas booster to a solar
water heater, and must not be used for this purpose.
WATER HEATER OPERATION
A quantity of water is kept hot in an electrically heated, thermostat
controlled copper cylinder. When a hot tap is turned on, hot water is
supplied immediately from this cylinder.
Water flows through the heat exchanger of the water heater when a
hot tap is opened and the gas burners ignite to provide immediate
heating of the water. Heat produced by the burner is transferred to the
water through the heat exchanger. The water flow is initially diverted
into the copper cylinder until it reaches the preset outlet temperature
setting of the water heater. The water flow is then diverted away from
the cylinder directly to the outlet of the water heater.
The water flowing through the heat exchanger is heated to a constant
temperature by automatic adjustment of the gas supply to the burner to
suit the water flow rate. The gas burners extinguish when the hot tap is
closed. Water in the cylinder is kept hot until the next time a hot tap is
turned on.
Automatic safety controls are fitted to the water heater to provide safe
and efficient operation.
MAINS PRESSURE
The water heater is designed for direct connection to the mains water supply. If the mains supply pressure in
your area exceeds that shown on page 19, a pressure limiting valve must be fitted. The supply pressure
should be greater than 160 kPa for the rated flow and performance to be achieved.
ABOUT YOUR WATER HEATER
5
HOW HOT SHOULD THE WATER BE?
The water heater heats the water to the preset outlet
temperature setting. The factory preset outlet temperature
setting is:
874 series 60°C
Water Star water saving function 70°C
Water initially discharged by this water heater at start-up
may be at a temperature of up to 70°C before the water
heater normalises to its preset outlet temperature
Note: The preset outlet temperature setting of this water
heater cannot be adjusted by the householder. The setting
can only be adjusted by the installer, Rheem Service or their
nearest Accredited Service Agent.
Warning: Temperature controllers must not be fitted to this water heater (874 series) because water at a
temperature much higher than the controller setting can be delivered.
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 be required by regulations that an approved temperature limiting device be fitted
into the hot water piping to the bathroom and ensuite when an 874 series water heater is installed. This will
keep the water temperature from exceeding 50°C at the bathroom and ensuite. The risk of scalding will be
reduced, and still allow hotter water to the kitchen and laundry.
THERMOSTAT
The thermostat automatically controls the electricity supply to the heating unit of the cylinder 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.
The thermostat on this water heater has a fixed setting at 70°C. This cannot be adjusted.
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.
The water heater uses 240 Volt AC electrical power for operation of the control systems and the combustion
fan. The removal of the front panel will expose 240 V wiring. It must only be removed by a qualified person.
The power lead from the water heater must be plugged into a weatherproof general purpose outlet (GPO).
Take care not to touch the power plug with wet hands.
Water Star thermostat setting
(not adjustable)
maximum recommended supply
temperature to bathrooms and
ensuites.
factory preset temperature setting
874W series
ABOUT YOUR WATER HEATER
6
SAFETY
This water heater is supplied with temperature sensors, a FlameSafe® protection system and a pressure
relief valve.
The Water Star water saving component within the water heater is supplied with a temperature limiting valve,
a thermostat, an over-temperature cut-out and a combination temperature pressure relief valve. The
operation of the over-temperature cut-out on the thermostat indicates a potentially 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.
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 general purpose outlet (GPO) this water heater is plugged into should be protected by an RCD (residual
current device). RCD‟s can provide additional protection should there be a fault in the electrical wiring
system. Check with your electrician if in doubt.
If the power supply cord or plug is damaged, it must be replaced by a qualified person in order to avoid a
hazard. The power supply cord and plug must be replaced with a genuine replacement part available from
Rheem. Phone Rheem Service or their nearest Accredited Service Agent to arrange for an inspection.
Warning: For continued safety of this water heater it must be installed, operated and maintained in
accordance with the Owner‟s Guide and Installation Instructions.
The 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.
Do not store flammable or combustible materials near the
water heater. Flammable liquids (such as petrol),
newspapers and similar articles must be kept well away from
the water heater and the flue terminal.
Do not use aerosols, stain removers and household
chemicals near the water heater whilst it is working. Gases
from some aerosol sprays, stain removers and household
chemicals become corrosive when drawn into a flame.
Do not store swimming pool chemicals, household
cleaners, etc., near the water heater.
Do not place anything on top of the water heater or in contact
with the flue terminal. Ensure the flue terminal is not
obstructed in any way at any time.
Do not use Propane / Butane gas mixtures in a Propane model. A Propane model is designed to operate
on Propane only. The use of Propane / Butane mixture, such as automotive LPG fuel, in a Propane
model is unsafe and can cause damage to the water heater.
PRECAUTIONS
Where damage to property can occur in the event of the water heater leaking, the water heater must be
installed over 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 “General Maintenance” on page 10, “Minor Six Month Maintenance” on page 10 and “Major Five
Year Service” 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.
ABOUT YOUR WATER HEATER
7
TO TURN OFF THE WATER HEATER
If it is necessary to turn off the water heater:
Switch off the electrical supply at the power outlet to the water heater if there is no risk of freezing
conditions occurring (refer to note below).
Close the gas isolation valve at the inlet to the water heater.
Close the cold water isolation valve at the inlet to the water heater.
Note: If there is a risk of freezing conditions, the electrical supply to the water heater should not be switched
off unless the water heater is drained, otherwise damage could result (refer to “Frost Protection” on page 7
and “Draining the Water Heater” on page 7).
TO TURN ON THE WATER HEATER
Screw in the drain plugs at the cold water inlet and hot water outlet of the water heater if the water
heater has been drained.
Open all of the hot taps in the house (don‟t forget the shower).
Open the cold water isolation valve fully at the inlet to the water heater.
Air will be forced out of the taps.
Close each tap as water flows freely from it.
Open the gas isolation valve fully at the inlet to the water heater.
Plug in the power supply cord at the power outlet.
Switch on the electrical supply at the power outlet to the water heater.
The water heater will operate automatically when you open a hot tap.
GOING ON HOLIDAYS
If you are going on holidays, it is not necessary to turn the water heater off. If it is necessary to turn off the
water heater, refer to “To Turn Off The Water Heater” on page 7.
FROST PROTECTION
The water heater has a frost protection system. The frost protection system will protect the water heater from
damage, by preventing ice forming in the waterways of the water heater, in the event of freezing conditions
occurring.
Notes:
The frost protection system will be rendered inoperable if electrical power is not available at the water
heater. Damage caused by freezing due to the unavailability of power at the water heater is not covered
by the Rheem warranty (refer to “Terms of the Rheem Warranty” on page 35).
If it is necessary to switch the power off to the water heater and there is a risk of freezing, then it is
necessary to drain the water heater (refer to “Draining the Water Heater” below).
Pipe work to and from the water heater must be adequately insulated to prevent freezing.
The water heater is not suitable for installation in areas where the ambient temperature falls below -20ºC
(including wind chill factor).
Refer to “Terms of the Rheem Warranty” on page 35.
ABOUT YOUR WATER HEATER
8
DRAINING THE WATER HEATER
Switch off the electrical supply at the power outlet to the water heater.
Close the gas isolation valve at the inlet to the water heater.
Leave the cold water isolation valve open at the inlet to the water heater.
Open a hot tap (preferably the shower outlet) for 20 seconds, to purge any hot water left in the water
heater.
Close the cold water isolation valve, and leave the hot tap remain open.
Unscrew the two drain plugs, one each at the cold water inlet and transfer pipe connection, on the
underside of the water heater.
A portion of water will drain from the water heater.
In order to drain the remainder of water inside the water heater, raise the lever of the temperature
pressure relief valve. The easing lever on the valve is accessed by removing this plastic cover panel.
Refer to “Accessing the Temperature Pressure Relief Valve” on page 11.
When water stops flowing from the drain plugs, gently lower the lever of the temperature pressure relief
valve, refit the plastic cover panel and close the hot tap.
Note: It is recommended not to screw the drain plugs back in, until the water heater is to be turned on again.
HOW DO I KNOW IF THE WATER HEATER IS INSTALLED CORRECTLY?
Installation requirements are shown on pages 17 to 22. 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 5601 or AS/NZS 5601.1, as applicable under local
regulations, and all local codes and regulatory authority requirements.
Warning: Temperature controllers must not be fitted to this water heater (874 series) because water at a
temperature much higher than the controller setting can be delivered.
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.
ABOUT YOUR WATER HEATER
9
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 page 12.
HOW LONG WILL THE WATER HEATER LAST?
The water heater is supported by a manufacturer‟s warranty (refer to page 35). 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
GENERAL MAINTENANCE
The jacket of the water heater can be cleaned with a soft cloth and warm mild soapy water. Under no
circumstances should abrasive materials or powders be used.
The area around the water heater can be sprayed with insecticide to rid the area of insects. Insects
encroaching into or nesting in the water heater can interfere with the operation of the water heater and also
damage components.
MINOR SIX MONTH MAINTENANCE
It is recommended minor maintenance be performed every six months by the dwelling occupant.
The minor maintenance includes:
Inspect around the air inlet, flue terminal and the water heater in general for plant growth.
Trim back any shrubs, bushes or other plants which have encroached around the water heater.
Plant growth across the air let and flue terminal can interfere with the performance of the water
heater.
Inspect around the water heater for insect infestations, such as ants.
Spray insecticide around the water heater if necessary to rid the area of insects. Do not spray the
surface or into the air inlet or flue terminal of the water heater.
Insects encroaching into or nesting in the water heater can interfere with the operation of the water
heater and also damage components.
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 11.
Check the drain line from the safe tray (if one is installed) is not blocked.
MAJOR FIVE YEAR SERVICE
For safe and efficient operation, it is recommended a five 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 year service and routine replacement of any components, if required, 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 five year service includes the following actions:
Check and if necessary adjust the gas pressure.
Check the operation of and clean the burner.
Replace the temperature limiting valve.
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.
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 15).
Warning: Never block the outlet of this valve or its drain line for any reason.
Operate the easing lever on the temperature pressure relief
valve once every six months. It is very important you raise
and lower the lever gently.
The valve connects to the top of the cylinder and is located
underneath the plastic cover panel on the front of the water
heater. The easing lever on the valve can be accessed by
removing this plastic cover panel. Refer to “Accessing the
Temperature Pressure Relief Valve” on page 11.
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 12).
Accessing the Temperature Pressure Relief Valve
The plastic cover panel is required to be
removed to access to temperature pressure
relief valve.
To access the valve:
1. Push the bottom end clip upwards and
gently pull out the plastic cover panel at the
bottom to disengage the clip.
2. Disengage the plastic cover panel from the water heater by
pushing the top end of the panel downwards.
3. Remove the plastic cover panel while holding both the
bottom and top ends of the panel.
4. Re-install the plastic cover panel securely by reversing the
steps above.
Note: The plastic cover panel forms part of the water heater. It must be resecured properly after servicing.
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.
lift until water
flows from the
drain line –
lower gently
hot
water
cylinder
drain
line
Step 3
Step 1
Step 2
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