Use & Care Manual

With Installation Instructions for the Installer

Electric Point of Use

Water Heaters

Single Element 120 Volt Operation

Residential 21/2 ???20 Gallon

Model: GE Series

The purpose of this manual is twofold: one, to provide the installer with 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 trouble shooting of the water heater. This manual includes a parts list.

It is imperative that all persons who are expected to install, operate or adjust this water heater read the instructions carefully so that they may understand how to perform these operations.

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.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

WARNING???When using electrical appliances, basic safety precautions to reduce the risk of fire, electric shock, or injury to persons should be followed, including:

READ ALL INSTRUCTIONS BEFORE USING THIS

WATER HEATER.

The cord and plug connected water heater covered in this manual (21/2 gallon models) must be grounded. Connect only to properly grounded outlet. See ???Electrical Connections??? section on page 8.

Install or locate this water heater in accordance with the provided installation instructions.

Use this water heater only for its intended use as described in this manual.

As with any appliance, close supervision is necessary when used by children.

Do Not use an extension cord set with this water heater.

If no receptacle is available adjacent to the water heater, contact a qualified electrician to have one properly installed.

Do Not operate this water heater if it has a damaged cord or plug, if it is not working properly, or if it has been damaged or dropped.

This water heater should be serviced only by qualified service personnel. Contact nearest authorized service center for examination, repair or adjustment.

SAVE THESE

INSTRUCTIONS

??

LISTED 786H

Manufactured under trademark license by:

Rheem Manufacturing Company

2600 Gunter Park Drive East, Montgomery, AL 36124-4020

Part No. AP12169-5 (01/05) Pub. No. 49-50013-4 11-03 JR

Printed in USA

Customer Service Troubleshooting Tips Care and Cleaning Operating Instructions Installation Instructions Safety Instructions

Safety Information

Safety Precautions . . . . . . 3, 4

Installation Instructions

Location . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

Water Connections . . . . . . . . . 6

Electrical Connections . . . . . . 8

Pipe Insulation . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

Heat Traps. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

Installation Checklist . . . . . . . 11

Operating Instructions

Safety Controls. . . . . . . . . . . . 12

Water Temperature . . . . . . . . 13

Care and Cleaning

Draining . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

Extended Shut-Down . . . . . . 14

Maintenance. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

Troubleshooting Tips

Before You Call

For Service. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

Customer Service

Parts List . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

Wiring Diagram . . . . . . . . . . . 17

Product Registration . . 19, 20

2

IMPORTANT!

Fill out and return the Consumer Product Registration Card that is in the back of this manual.

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. Just a little preventive care on your part can save you a great deal of time and money over the life of your water heater.

You???ll find many answers to common problems in the Before You Call For Service section. If you review our chart of Troubleshooting Tips first, you may not need to call for service at all.

IF YOU NEED SERVICE

If you do need service, you can relax knowing help is only a phone call away. For service call 800-431-1549.

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 An imminently hazardous situation that will result in death or serious injury.

! WARNING A potentially hazardous situation that could result in death or serious injury and/or damage to property.

! CAUTION A potentially hazardous situation that may result in minor or moderate injury.

Notice:Attention is called to observe a specified procedure or maintain a specific condition.

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 water heater???s thermostat. Water temperatures above 125??F 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 near the thermostat access panel.

Installation Instructions Safety

! D A N G E R

HOT

BURN

Water temperature over 125??F can cause severe burns instantly or death from scalds.

Children, disabled and elderly are at highest risk of being scalded.

Time/Temperature Relationship in Scalds

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.

NOTICE: Households with small children, disabled, or elderly persons may require a 120??F or lower thermostat setting to prevent contact with ???HOT??? water.

The temperature of the water in the heater is regulated by the adjustable surface mounted thermostat(s) located behind the jacket access panel(s). Dual element heaters have two thermostats. To comply with safety regulations the thermostat(s) were set at 120??F before the water heater was shipped from the factory.

Cleaning and Care Instructions Operating Instructions

See instruction manual before setting temperature at water heater.

Feel water before bathing or showering.

Temperature limiting valves are available, see manual.

NOTICE: Mixing valves are available for reducing point of use water temperature by mixing hot and cold water in

The illustration at the left shows the temperature adjustment dial used for setting the water temperature.

Refer to the Operating Instructions in this manual for detailed instructions in how to adjust the thermostat(s).

Customer Tips Troubleshooting

branch water lines. Contact a licensed plumber or the local plumbing authority for further information.

DANGER: Hotter water increases the potential for Hot Water SCALDS.

Service

3

Care and Cleaning Operating Instructions Installation Instructions Safety Instructions

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.

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 cost. 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 electric utility.

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, 400 P Street, 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 circuit breaker and how to shut it off if necessary. Turn off the circuit breaker if the water heater has been subjected to overheating, fire, flood, physical damage or if the ECO fails to shut off.

Service Troubleshooting Tips

???Read this manual entirely before installing or operating the water heater.

???Use this appliance only for its intended purpose as described in this Use and Care Manual.

???Be sure your appliance is properly installed in accordance with local codes and the provided installation instructions.

???Do not attempt to repair or replace any part of your water heater unless it is specifically recommended in this manual. All other servicing should be referred to a qualified technician.

Customer

READ AND FOLLOW THIS SAFETY INFORMATION

CAREFULLY.

SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS

4

Installing the water heater.

The location chosen for the water heater must take into consideration the following:

Safety

Local Installation Regulations

This water heater must be installed in accordance with these instructions, local codes, utility codes, utility company requirements or, in the absence of local codes, the latest edition of the National

Electrical Code. It is available from some local libraries or can be purchased from the National Fire Protection Association, Batterymarch Park, Quincy, MA 02269 as booklet ANSI/NFPA 70.

Installation Instructions

Location

This water heater is designed to meet a wide range of applications. It fulfills a demand for a small water heater that can be installed in a limited space such as under countertops, in cabinets or in a closet.

Locate the water heater in a clean dry area as near as practical to hot water fixtures, or close to the water faucet most frequently used.

Locate the water heater in a clean dry area as near as practical to the area of greatest heated water demand. Long uninsulated hot water lines can waste energy and water.

Place the water heater in such a manner that the thermostat and element

access panels can be removed to permit inspection and servicing such as removal of elements or checking controls.

The water heater and water lines should be protected from freezing temperatures. Do not install the water heater in outdoor, unprotected areas.

CAUTION: The water heater should not be located in an area where leakage of the tank or connections will result in damage to the area adjacent to it or to lower floors of the structure. Where such areas cannot be avoided, it is recommended that a suitable catch pan, adequately drained, be installed under the water heater.

Cleaning and Care Instructions Operating Instructions

A

NOTICE: Auxiliary catch pan MUST conform to local codes.

Catch Pan Kits are available from the store where the water heater was purchased, or any water heater distributor.

To open drain, line should be at least 3/4???

ID and pitched for proper drainage.

Service Customer Tips Troubleshooting

5

Instructions Safety Instructions

Installing the water heater.

Inspect Shipment

Inspect the water heater for possible damage. Check the markings on the rating plate of the water heater to be certain the power supply corresponds to the water heater requirements.

Care and Cleaning Operating Instructions Installation

Thermal Expansion

Determine if a check valve exists in the inlet water line. 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 pressure within the water system. This action is referred to as

???thermal 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 the system piping. This rapid pressure increase can quickly reach the safety setting of the relief valve, causing it to operate during each heating cycle. Thermal expansion, and the resulting rapid and repeated expansion and contraction of components in the water heater and piping system can cause premature failure of the relief valve, and possibly the heater itself. Replacing the relief valve will not correct the problem.

The suggested method of controlling thermal expansion is to install an expansion tank in the cold water line between the water heater and the check valve. 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.

Water Supply Connections

Customer Service Troubleshooting Tips

NOTICE: 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 water connections on heater. Any heat applied to the water supply fittings will permanently damage the dip tube and/or heat traps.

Refer to the illustrations on the following page for suggested typical installation. The installation of unions or flexible copper connectors is recommended on the hot and cold water connections so that the water heater may be easily disconnected for servicing. Connect cold water supply line to 3/4??? pipe connection near bottom of water heater on the 6 gallon and 20 gallon models. Install a shut-off valve and a drain valve (not supplied with heater,

except 2 1/2 gal. models) in cold water line near water heater. Connect hot water line to 3/4??? pipe connection marked HOT on side near top of water heater. On the

2 1/2 gallon models, the hot and cold water connections are 1/2??? pipe connections and are located on top of the heater. Local codes may require an anti-siphon device on the water inlet of a side connect water heater.

6

Typical Installation

If required, install per local codes and valve manufacturer???s instructions.

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, is supplied and must remain installed 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.

Troubleshooting Cleaning and Care Instructions Operating Instructions Installation Instructions Safety

WARNING: The pressure rating of the relief valve must not exceed 150 PSI, the maximum working pressure of the water heater as marked on

the rating plate.

Relief Valve

The Btuh rating of the relief valve must not be less than the input rating of the water heater as indicated on the rating label located on the front of the heater

(1 watt=3.412 Btuh).

Connect the outlet of the relief valve to a suitable open drain so that the discharge water cannot contact live electrical parts or persons and 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 should be installed in the discharge line.

Service Customer Tips

7

Instructions

Installing the water heater.

Instructions Safety

WARNING: The tank must be full of water before heater is turned on. The water heater warranty does not cover damage or failure resulting from operation with an empty or partially empty tank. (Refer to the Certificate of Limited Warranty for complete terms and conditions.)

To Fill the Water Heater

Make certain the drain valve is completely closed.

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.

A steady flow of water from the hot water faucet(s) indicates a full water heater.

Installation

Condensation

Operating Instructions

Condensation can form on the tank when it is first filled with water.

Condensation might also occur with a heavy water draw and very cold inlet water temperature.

This condition is not unusual, and will disappear after the water becomes heated. If, however, the condensation continues, examine the piping and fittings for possible leaks.

Additional information on this subject may be found at www.rheem.com under ???Library???. Scroll down to the

Technical Service Bulletins 1300 Series Section and choose Bulletin #1303.

Customer Service Troubleshooting Tips Care and Cleaning

CAUTION: The presence of water in the piping and water heater does not provide sufficient conduction for a ground. Non-metallic piping, dielectric unions, flexible connectors etc. can cause the water heater to be electrically isolated.

Electrical Connections

All wiring must conform to local codes or latest edition of National Electrical Code ANSI/NFPA 70.

The voltage requirements and wattage load for the water heater are specified on the rating plate on the front of the water heater.

21/2 gallon models are supplied with a plug connected power supply cord for use only in 120 VAC applications. The cord must be connected to a properly grounded receptacle on a branch circuit with copper conductors, an over current protection device and a suitable disconnect means. If desired, straight field wiring connections can be made to these models by removing the access cover on front of heater and disconnecting the cord set from the thermostat and the grounding plug. Remove the cord set and strain relief bushing from the junction bracket. The hole in the junction bracket will accommodate 1/2??? or 3/4??? electrical fittings. Refer to wiring diagrams in the back of this manual for wiring connections.

6 through 20 gallon models are completely wired to the junction bracket inside jacket at front of water heater. An opening for 1/2??? or 3/4??? electrical fitting is provided for field wiring connections. A separate branch circuit with copper conductors, overcurrent protective device and suitable disconnecting means must be provided by a qualified electrician. Refer to wiring diagrams in the back of this manual for wiring connections.

The branch circuit wiring should include either:

Metallic conduit or metallic sheathed cable approved for use as a grounding conductor and installed with fittings approved for the purpose.

Non-metallic sheathed cable, metallic conduit or metallic sheathed cable not approved for use as a ground conductor shall include a separate conductor for grounding. It should be attached to the ground terminals of the water heater and the electrical distribution box.

8

NOTICE: This guide recommends minimum branch circuit sizing and wire size based on National Electric Code. Refer to wiring diagrams in this manual for field wiring connections.

Branch Circuit Sizing and Wire Size Guide

*Less than 1500 watts may be wired 14 gauge with 15 amp protection. Check Local Electrical Codes, as they will also apply.

Instructions Operating Instructions Installation Instructions Safety

Insulation Blankets

Insulation blankets, available to the general public, for external use on electric water heaters are not necessary. The purpose of an insulation blanket is to reduce the standby heat loss encountered with storage tank heaters. This water heater meets or exceeds the National Appliance Energy Conservation Act standards with respect to insulation and standby loss requirements making an insulation blanket unnecessary.

The manufacturer???s warranty does not cover any damage or defect caused by installation, attachment or use of any type of energy saving or other unapproved devices (other than those authorized by the manufacturer) into, onto or in conjunction with the water heater. The use of unauthorized energy saving devices may shorten the life of the water heater and may endanger life and property.

The manufacturer disclaims any responsibility for such loss or injury resulting from the use of such unauthorized devices.

CAUTION: If local codes require the application of an external insulation blanket to this water heater, pay careful attention to the following so as not to restrict the proper function and operation of the water heater:

???Do not cover the temperature and pressure relief valve.

???Do not cover jacket access panels to thermostats and heating elements.

???Do not cover the electrical junction box of the water heater.

???Do not cover the operating or warning labels attached to the water heater or attempt to relocate them on the exterior of insulation blanket.

Service Customer Tips Troubleshooting Cleaning and Care

9

Cleaning Operating Instructions Installation Instructions Safety Instructions

Installing the water heater.

Hot and Cold Pipe Insulation Installation

Relief Valve Insulation Installation

CAUTION: Ensure the T&P Valve opening is not obstructed by the insulation.

Tips Care and

Typical top connection arrangement

For increased energy efficiency, some water heaters have been supplied with a 2-3/8??? section of pipe insulation.

Please install the insulation, according to the illustrations above, that best meets your requirements.

Typical side connection arrangement

Slip the insulation cover over the T&P Valve through the center hole and align the hole in the side with the opening of the T&P Valve.

Customer Service Troubleshooting

Heat Traps

For increased energy efficiency, some water heaters have been supplied with factory installed heat traps in the hot outlet line and cold water inlet line.

NOTICE: 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 water connections on heater. Any heat applied to the water supply fittings will permanently damage the dip tube and/or heat traps.

10

Installation checklist.

Water Heater Location

Safety

???Close to area of heated water demand.

???Indoors and protected from freezing temperatures.

???Area free of flammable vapors.

???Sufficient fresh air supply for proper operation of water heater.

???Provisions made to protect area from water damage.

???Sufficient room to service heater.

Installation Instructions

Water Supply

???Water heater completely filled with water.

???Air purged from water heater and piping.

???Water connections tight and free of leaks.

Relief Valve

???Temperature and Pressure Relief Valve properly installed and discharge line run to open drain.

???Discharge line protected from freezing.

Wiring

???Power supply voltage agrees with water heater rating plate.

???Branch circuit wire and fusing or circuit breaker of proper size.

???Electrical connections tight and unit properly grounded.

Service Customer Tips Troubleshooting Cleaning and Care Instructions Operating Instructions

11

Safety Instructions

Operating the water heater.

CAUTION: Hydrogen gas can be produced in a hot water system served by this water heater that has not been used for a long period of time (generally two weeks or more). HYDROGEN GAS IS EXTREMELY FLAMMABLE!! To dissipate such gas and to reduce risk of injury, it is recommended that the hot water faucet be opened for several minutes at the kitchen sink before using any electrical appliance connected to the hot water system. If hydrogen is present, there will be an unusual sound such as air escaping through the pipe as the water begins to flow. Do not smoke or use an open flame near the faucet at the time it is open.

Safety Precautions

Instructions Installation Instructions

Do turn off power to water heater if it has been subjected to over heating, fire, flood, physical damage.

Do Not turn on water heater unless it is filled with water.

Do Not turn on water heater if cold water supply shut-off valve is closed.

If there is any difficulty in understanding or following the Operating Instructions or the Care and Cleaning section, it is recommended that a qualified person or serviceman perform the work.

Tips Care and Cleaning Operating

CAUTION: The cause of the high temperature condition must be investigated by qualified service technician and corrective action must be taken before placing the water heater in service again.

Safety Controls

The water heater is equipped with a combination thermostat and temperature limiting control (ECO) that is located above the heating element in contact with the tank surface. If for any reason the water temperature becomes excessively high, the temperature limiting control (ECO) breaks the power circuit to the heating element. Once the control opens, it must be reset manually.

To reset the temperature limiting control:

Turn off the power to the water heater.

Remove the jacket access panel(s) and insulation.

The thermostat protective cover should not be removed.

Press the red RESET button.

Replace the insulation and jacket access panel(s) before turning on the power to the water heater.

Customer Service Troubleshooting

Emergency Instructions

WARNING: If the water heater has been subjected to flood, fire, or physical damage, turn off power and water to the water heater.

Do not operate the water heater again until it has been thoroughly checked by qualified service personnel.

12

! DANGER: Hotter water increases the Potential for Hot Water SCALDS. Households with small children, disabled, or elderly persons may require a 120??F or lower gas control (thermostat) setting to prevent contact with HOT water.

Water Temperature Setting

The temperature of the water in the water heater can be regulated by setting the temperature dial of the adjustable surface mounted thermostat(s) located behind the jacket access panel(s).

Dual element heaters have two thermostats.

Safety and energy conservation are factors to be considered when selecting the water temperature setting of the water heater???s thermostat(s). The lower the temperature setting, the greater the savings in energy and operating costs.

To comply with safety regulations the thermostat(s) are factory set at 120??F or less where local codes require. This is the recommended starting point.

Water temperatures above 125??F

can cause severe burns or death from scalding. Be sure to read and follow the warnings outlined in this manual and on the label located on the water heater near the gas control (thermostat).

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.

The chart below may be used as a guide in determining the proper water temperature for your home.

Instructions Operating Instructions Installation Instructions Safety

Time/Temperature Relationship in Scalds

Table courtesy of Shriners Burn Institute

Cleaning and Care

Type 59T thermostat and protective cover.

If adjustment is necessary???

Turn off the power to the water heater.

Remove the jacket access panel(s) and insulation exposing the thermostat(s).

The thermostat protective cover(s) should not be removed.

Using a small screwdriver, set the thermostat(s) dial pointer(s) to the desired temperature.

Replace the insulation and jacket access panel(s). Turn on the power to the water heater.

Service Customer Tips Troubleshooting

13

Instructions

Care and cleaning of the water heater.

Installation Instructions Safety

Draining the Water Heater

CAUTION: Shut off power to the water heater before draining water.

DANGER: Before manually operating the relief valve, make certain no one will be exposed to the hot water released by the valve. The water drained from the tank may be hot enough to present a scald hazard and should be directed to a suitable drain to prevent injury or damage.

In order to drain the water heater, turn off the cold water supply. Open a hot water faucet or lift the handle on the relief valve to admit air to the tank.

Attach a garden hose to the drain valve on the water heater and direct the stream of water to a drain. Open the valve.

Vacation and Extended Shut-Down

Operating Instructions

NOTICE: Refer to the Hydrogen Gas Caution in the Operating Instructions.

If the water heater is to remain idle for an extended period of time, the power and water to the appliance should be turned off to conserve energy and prevent a build-up of dangerous hydrogen gas.

The water heater and piping should be drained if they might be subjected to freezing temperatures.

After a long shut-down period, the water heater???s operation and controls should be checked by qualified service personnel. Make certain the water heater is completely filled again before placing it in operation.

DANGER: Before

Routine Preventative Maintenance

Customer Service Troubleshooting Tips Care and Cleaning

manually operating the relief valve, make certain no one will be exposed to the danger of coming in contact with the hot water released by the valve. The water may be hot enough to create a scald hazard. The water should be released into a suitable drain to prevent injury or property damage.

! DANGER: Hotter water increases the potential for Hot Water Scalds.

NOTICE: If the temperature and pressure relief valve on the hot water heater discharges periodically, this may be due to thermal expansion in a closed water system. Contact the water supplier or

your plumbing contractor on how to correct this. Do not plug the relief valve outlet.

14

Properly maintained, your water heater will provide years of dependable trouble- free service.

It is suggested that a routine preventive maintenance program be established and followed by the user.

It is further recommended that a periodic inspection of the operating controls, heating element and wiring should be made by service personnel qualified in electric appliance repair.

Most electrical appliances, even when new, make some sound when in operation. If the hissing or singing sound level increases excessively, the electric heating element may require cleaning. Contact a qualified installer or plumbing contract to inspect.

At least once a year, lift and release the lever handle on the temperature pressure relief valve, located near the top of the water heater, to make certain the valve operates freely. Allow several gallons to flush through the discharge line to an open drain.

A water heater???s tank can act as a settling basin for solids suspended in the water. It is therefore not uncommon for hard water deposits to accumulate in the bottom of the tank. It is suggested that a few quarts of water be drained from the water heater???s tank every month to clean the tank of these deposits.

Rapid closing of faucets or solenoid valves in automatic water using appliances can cause a banging noise heard in a water pipe. Strategically located risers in the water pipe system or water hammer arresting devices can be used to minimize the problem.

The anode rod should be removed from the water heater???s tank annually for inspection and replaced when more than 6??? of core wire is exposed at either end of the rod.

Make sure the cold water supply is turned off before removing anode rod.

NOTICE: Do not remove the anode rod from the water heater???s tank, except for inspection and/or replacement,

as operation with the anode rod removed will shorten the life of the glass lined tank and will exclude warranty coverage.

Before You Call For Service???

Troubleshooting Tips

Save time and money! Review the chart on this page first and you may not need to call for service.

CAUTION: For your safety DO NOT attempt repair of electrical wiring, thermostats, heating elements or other safety devices. Refer repairs to qualified service personnel.

Service Customer Tips Troubleshooting Cleaning and Care Instructions Operating Instructions Installation Instructions Safety

15

Instructions

Replacement Parts.

For 21/2 gallon models and 6, 10 & 20 gallon models with single elements.

Instructions For Placing a Parts Order

Instructions Safety

To place orders using a Visa/MasterCard call 800-431-1549.

All parts orders should include:

The model and serial number of the water heater from the rating plate.

Specify voltage and wattage as marked on the rating plate.

Part description (as noted below) and number of parts desired.

CAUTION: For your safety DO NOT attempt repair of electrical wiring, thermostat(s), heating elements or other operating controls. Refer repairs to qualified service personnel.

Customer Service Troubleshooting Tips Care and Cleaning Operating Instructions Installation

21/2 Gallon Models

Relief valve

Cavity insulation

Thermostat protective cover

Thermostat

Heating element gasket

Wiring diagrams.

Wiring Diagrams for Type???59T Therm-o-disc Thermostats

1

2

BLACK

HEATING

ELEMENT

120 V Plug Connected cord set ONLY

2

BLACK

HEATING

ELEMENT

120 V Field Connected ONLY

Service Customer Tips Troubleshooting Cleaning and Care Instructions Operating Instructions Installation Instructions Safety

17

here Cut ???

??? Cut here

Please place in envelope and mail to:

Rheem Manufacturing Company

Warranty Registration Department

P.O. Box 34070

Louisville, KY 40232-4070

19

Consumer Product Ownership Registration

Follow these three steps to protect your new appliance investment:

If you require service, call 800-431-1549.

??? Cut here

Consumer Product Ownership Registration

ImportantMail

Today!

NOTICE: Failure to complete and return this card does not diminish your limited warranty rights.

20