Water HeatersElectric

For Manufactured Housing (Mobile Home)

Model: GE SeriesThe purpose of this manual is twofold:one, to provide the installer with the basicdirections and recommendations for theproper installation and adjustment of thewater heater; and two, for the owner–operator, to explain the features, operation,safety precautions, maintenance andtrouble shooting of the water heater. Thismanual includes a parts list.

It is imperative that all persons who areexpected to install, operate or adjust thiswater heater read the instructions carefullyso that they may understand how toperform these operations.

Do not destroy this manual. Please readcarefully and keep in a safe place for futurereference.

Recognize this symbol as anindication of Important SafetyInformation!

California Proposition 65Warning: This product containschemicals known to the State ofCalifornia to cause cancer, birthdefects or other reproductive harm.

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Single and Double Element Models

Side or Top WaterConnections

Residential 20–52 Gallon

®

LISTED786H

Part No. AP12170-4 (11/03) Pub. No. 49-50012-4 11-03 JR

Manufactured under trademark license by:

Rheem Manufacturing Company2600 Gunter Park Drive East, Montgomery, AL 36124-4020

Printed in USA

Use & Care ManualWith Installation Instructions for the Installer

Safety Information

Safety Precautions . . . . . . 3, 4

Installation Instructions

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

Water Connections . . . . . . . . 6

Electrical Connections . . . . . 8

Operating Instructions

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

Water Temperature. . . . . . . . . 13

Care and Cleaning

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

Extended Shut-Down . . . . . . 14

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

Troubleshooting Tips

Before You CallFor Service. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

Customer Service

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

Wiring Diagram. . . . . . . . . . . 18

Product Registration . . 19, 20

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Inside you will find many helpful hints on how to use and maintainyour water heater properly. Just a little preventive care on yourpart can save you time and money over the life of your waterheater.

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

READ THIS MANUAL

FOR YOUR RECORDSWrite 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 serviceunder the warranty.

IMPORTANT!Fill out and return the Consumer Product Registration Card that isin the back of this manual.

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

IF YOU NEED SERVICE

Your safety and the safety of others are very important. There aremany important safety messages in this manual and on yourappliance. Always read and obey all safety messages.

This is the safety alert symbol. Recognize this symbol as an indication of Important Safety Information! Thissymbol alerts you to potential hazards that can kill or hurt you and others.

All safety messages will follow the safety alert symbol and eitherthe word “DANGER”, “WARNING”, “CAUTION” or “NOTICE”.

These words mean:

DANGER An imminently hazardous situation that willresult in death or serious injury.

WARNING A potentially hazardous situation that couldresult in death or serious injury and/ordamage to property.

CAUTION A potentially hazardous situation that mayresult in minor or moderate injury.

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

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READ THE SAFETY INFORMATION

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Time/Temperature Relationship in Scalds

Water Temperature Time To Produce a Serious Burn

120°F More than 5 minutes125°F 11/2 to 2 minutes130°F About 30 seconds135°F About 10 seconds140°F Less than 5 seconds145°F Less than 3 seconds150°F About 11/2 seconds155°F About 1 second

Table courtesy of Shriners Burn Institute

The chart shown above may be used as a guide in determining the proper water temperature foryour home.NOTICE: Households with small children, disabled, or elderly persons may require a 120°F or lowerthermostat setting to prevent contact with “HOT”water.

The temperature of the water in the heater isregulated by the adjustable surface mountedthermostat(s) located behind the jacket accesspanel(s). Dual element heaters have twothermostats. To comply with safety regulationsthe thermostat(s) were set at 120°F before thewater heater was shipped from the factory.

The illustration at the leftshows the temperatureadjustment dial usedfor setting the watertemperature.

Refer to the OperatingInstructions in thismanual for detailedinstructions in how toadjust the thermostat(s).

DANGER: Hotter water increases the Potential for Hot Water SCALDS.!

D A N G E R!

HOT

Water temperature over 125°F cancause severe burns instantly ordeath from scalds.

Children, disabled and elderly areat highest risk of being scalded.

See instruction manual beforesetting temperature at waterheater.Feel water before bathing orshowering.Temperature limiting valves areavailable, see manual.

BURN

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90°F150°F

125°F

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION.READ ALL INSTRUCTIONS BEFORE USING.

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Reset button

Thermostatprotective

cover

Thermostatdial pointer

WARNING!WATER TEMPERATURE ADJUSTMENTSafety and energy conservation are factors to be considered when selecting the watertemperature setting of water heater’s thermostat. Water temperatures above 125°F cancause severe burns or death from scalding. Be sure to read and follow the warnings outlinedon the label pictured below. This label is also located on the water heater near thethermostat access panel.

NOTICE: Mixing valves are available for reducing point ofuse water temperature by mixing hot and cold water inbranch water lines are available. Contact a licensedplumber or the local plumbing authority for furtherinformation.

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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 fireor 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 toinstall or operate this water heater. It may save you time and cost. Pay particular attentionto the Safety Instructions. Failure to follow these warnings could result in serious bodilyinjury 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 localelectric utility.

FOR INSTALLATIONS IN THE STATE OF CALIFORNIACalifornia Law requires that residential water heaters must be braced, anchored orstrapped to resist falling or horizontal displacement due to earthquake motions. Forresidential water heaters up to 52 gallon capacity, a brochure with generic earthquakebracing instructions can be obtained from: Office of the State Architect, 400 P Street,Sacramento, CA 95814 or you may call 916-324-5315 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 acceptablebracing procedures.

READ AND FOLLOW THIS SAFETY INFORMATIONCAREFULLY.

SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS

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Have the installer show you the location of the circuit breaker and how to shut itoff if necessary. Turn off the circuit breaker if the water heater has beensubjected to overheating, fire, flood, physical damage or if the ECO fails to shutoff.

● Read this manual entirely beforeinstalling or operating the water heater.

● Use this appliance only for its intendedpurpose as described in this Use andCare Manual.

● Be sure your appliance is properlyinstalled in accordance with local codesand the provided installationinstructions.

● Do not attempt to repair or replace anypart of your water heater unless it isspecifically recommended in this manual.All other servicing should be referred to aqualified technician.

SAFETY PRECAUTIONS

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

Local Installation RegulationsThe installation of this water heatermust be in accordance with theManufactured Home Construction andSafety Standard (Title 24, CFR; Part3280) and the following instructions;and local codes governing theinstallation of water heaters inmanufactured homes (mobile homes).

If additional wiring information is desired,the latest edition of the NationalElectrical Code is recommended. It isavailable from some local libraries or canbe purchased from the National FireProtection Association, 1 BatterymarchPark, Quincy, MA 02269 as bookletANSI/NFPA 70.

LocationLocate the water heater in a clean dryarea as near as practical to the area ofgreatest heated water demand. Longuninsulated hot water lines can wasteenergy and water.

Place the water heater in such a mannerthat the thermostat and elementaccess panels can be removed to permitinspection and servicing such as removalof elements or checking controls.

The water heater and water lines shouldbe protected from freezingtemperatures. Do not install the waterheater in outdoor, unprotected areas.

CAUTION: The water heater shouldnot be located in an area where leakageof the tank or connections will result indamage to the area adjacent to it or tolower floors of the structure. Wheresuch areas cannot be avoided, it isrecommended that a suitable catchpan, adequately drained, be installedunder the water heater.

A—Diameter of waterheater plus 2″ min.

B—Maximum 2″

NOTICE: Auxiliary catch pan MUST conform to local codes.Catch Pan Kits are available from the store where the waterheater was purchased, or any water heater distributor.

B

A To open drain, lineshould be at least 3/4″ID and pitched forproper drainage.

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Inspect ShipmentInspect the water heater for possible damage. Check the markings on the ratingplate of the water heater to be certain the power supply corresponds to the waterheater requirements.

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Installing the water heater.

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Thermal Expansion

Water Supply Connections

Typical Side Connect Installation

Anode

NOTICE: Do not apply heatto the HOT or COLD waterconnections. If sweatconnections are used,sweat tubing to adapterbefore fitting adapter to thewater connections onheater. Any heat applied tothe water supply fittingswill permanently damagethe dip tube.

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To electricaldistribution panelElectrical junction box

(use only copper conductors)

Temperature & pressure reliefvalve

Union

To cold water supply

Relief valvedischarge line.

Directed to underside of home.

Union

Hot water outlet to fixtures

Jacket accesspanel

Shut-off valve

Jacket accesspanel

Auxiliary catch pan

Drain valve

Refer to the illustration below for suggested typical installation. The installation ofunions or flexible copper connectors is recommended on the hot and cold waterconnections so that the water heater may be easily disconnected for servicing ifnecessary. The HOT and COLD water connections are clearly marked and are 3/4″ NPT onall models. Install a shut-off valve in the cold water line near the water heater.

Determine if a check valve exists inthe inlet water line. It may have beeninstalled in the cold water line as aseparate back flow preventer, or it may bepart of a pressure reducing valve, watermeter or water softerner. A check valvelocated in the cold water inlet line cancause what is referred to as a “closedwater system”. A cold water inlet linewith no check valve or back flow preventiondevice is referred to as an “open watersystem”.As water is heated, it expands in volumeand creates an increase in the pressurewithin the water system. This action isreferred to as “thermal expansion”.In an “open water system”, expandingwater which exceeds the capacity of thewater heater flows back into the city mainwhere the pressure is easily dissipated. A “closed water system”, however,prevents the expanding water from flowingback into the main supply line, and theresult of “thermal expansion” can create arapid and dangerous pressure increase inthe water heater and system piping. This

rapid pressure increase can quickly reachthe safety setting of the relief valve,causing it to operate during each heatingcycle. Thermal expansion, and the resultingrapid and repeated expansion andcontraction of components in the waterheater and piping system can causepremature failure of the relief valve, andpossibly the heater itself. Replacing therelief valve will not correct the problem. The suggested method of controllingthermal expansion is to install anexpansion tank in the cold water linebetween the water heater and the checkvalve. The expansion tank is designed withan air cushion built in that compresses asthe system pressure increases, therebyrelieving the over pressure condition andeliminating the repeated operation of therelief valve. Other methods of controllingthermal expansion are also available.Contact your installing contractor, watersupplier or plumbing inspector for additioninformation regarding this subject.

WARNING: The pressurerating of the relief valvemust not exceed 150 PSI,the maximum workingpressure of the waterheater as marked on the rating plate.

A new combination temperature and pressure relief valve, complying with the Standard for Relief Valvesand Automatic Gas Shut-Off Devices for Hot Water Supply Systems, ANSI Z21.22, is supplied and mustremain installed in the opening provided and marked for the purpose on the water heater. No valve of anytype should be installed between the relief valve and the tank. Local codes shall govern the installation ofrelief valves.

Relief ValveThe Btuh rating of the relief valve mustnot be less than the input rating of thewater heater as indicated on the ratinglabel 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 thedischarge water cannot contact liveelectrical parts or persons and toeliminate potential water damage.

Piping used should be of a type approvedfor hot water distribution. The dischargeline must be no smaller than the outletof the valve and must pitch downwardfrom the valve to allow completedrainage (by gravity) of the relief valveand discharge line. The end of thedischarge line should not be threaded orconcealed and should be protected fromfreezing. No valve of any type, restrictionor reducer coupling should be installed inthe discharge line.

To Fill the Water Heater

WARNING: The tank must be full ofwater before heater is turned on. Thewater heater warranty does not coverdamage or failure resulting fromoperation with an empty or partiallyempty tank. (Refer to the Certificate ofLimited Warranty for complete termsand conditions.)

Make certain the drain valve is completelyclosed. Open the shut-off valve in the cold watersupply line.Open each hot water faucet slowly toallow the air to vent from the water heater and piping.

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

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Typical Top Connect Installation

HOT

COLD

E L I E F

A L V E

AnodeTo electricaldistribution panelTemperature & pressure relief

valve

Electrical junction box (use only copper conductors)

Relief valvedischarge line.

Directed to underside of home.

Union

Hot water outlet to fixtures

Heat trap 6″ Min.

Heat trap 6″ Min.

Jacket accesspanel

Union

Jacket accesspanel

Shut-off valve

To cold watersupply

Auxiliarycatch pan

Drain valve

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Installing the water heater.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 electricallyisolated.

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Branch Circuit Sizing and Wire Size Guide

Total Water Recommended Over Current Protection Copper Wire Size AWG Based Heater Wattage (fuse or circuit breaker amperage rating) on N.E.C. Table 310-16 (75°C)

120V 208V 240V 120V 208V 240V1500* 20 15 15 12 14 141700 20 15 15 12 14 142000 25 15 15 10 14 142500 30 15 15 10 14 143000 35 20 20 8 12 123500 – 25 20 – 10 123800 – 25 20 – 10 124000 – 25 25 – 10 104500 – 30 25 – 10 105000 – 30 30 – 10 105500 – 35 30 – 8 106000 – 40 35 – 8 89000 – – 50 – – 8

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

Electrical ConnectionsA separate branch circuit with copperconductors, overcurrent protective deviceand suitable disconnecting means mustbe provided by a qualified electrician. All wiring must conform to local codesor latest edition of National ElectricalCode ANSI/NFPA 70.The water heater is completely wired tothe junction box inside jacket at the topfront of the water heater. An opening for1/2″ or 3/4″ electrical fitting is providedfor field wiring connections.The voltage requirements and wattage loadfor the water heater are specified on therating plate on the front of the water heater.

The branch circuit wiring shouldinclude either:

Metallic conduit or metallic sheathedcable approved for use as a groundingconductor and installed withfittings approved for the purpose.Non-metallic sheathed cable, metallicconduit or metallic sheathed cablenot approved for use as a groundconductor shall include a separateconductor for grounding. It shouldbe attached to the ground terminalsof the water heater and the electricaldistribution box.

WARNINGWARNING

Water heater junction box.

NOTICE: This guiderecommends minimumbranch circuit sizing andwire size based on NationalElectric Code. Refer towiring diagrams in thismanual for field wiringconnections.

Ground screw

Junction box

cover

Wire connections

Conduitconnector

CondensationCondensation can form on the tank when it is first filled with water.Condensation might also occur with a heavy water draw and very cold inletwater temperatures.

This condition is not unusual, and willdisappear after the water becomesheated. If, however, the condensationcontinues, examine the piping and fittingsfor possible leaks.

Additional information on this subjectmay be found at www.rheem.comunder “Library,” scroll down to theTechnical Service Bulletins 1400 SeriesSection and choose Bulletin #1402.

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Insulation BlanketsInsulation blankets, available to thegeneral public, for external use on electricwater heaters are not necessary. Thepurpose of an insulation blanket is toreduce the standby heat loss encounteredwith storage tank heaters. This waterheater meets or exceeds the NationalAppliance Energy Conservation Actstandards with respect to insulation and standby loss requirements making an insulation blanket unnecessary.

The manufacturer’s warranty does notcover any damage or defect caused byinstallation, attachment or use of any type of energy saving or otherunapproved devices (other than thoseauthorized by the manufacturer) into,onto or in conjunction with the waterheater. The use of unauthorized energysaving devices may shorten the life of thewater heater and may endanger life andproperty.

The manufacturer disclaims anyresponsibility for such loss or injuryresulting from the use of suchunauthorized devices.

CAUTION: If local codes require theapplication of an external insulationblanket to this water heater, pay carefulattention to the following so as not torestrict the proper function andoperation of the water heater:

● Do not cover the temperature andpressure relief valve.

● Do not cover jacket access panels tothermostats and heating elements.

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

● Do not cover the operating or warninglabels attached to the water heater orattempt to relocate them on theexterior of insulation blanket.

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Hot and Cold Pipe Insulation Installation

For increased energy efficiency, somewater heaters have been supplied with two 24” sections of pipe insulation.

Please install the insulation, according tothe illustrations above, that best meetsyour requirements.

WARNING: If localcodes require externalapplication of insulationblanket kits themanufacturer’s instructionsincluded with the kit mustbe carefully followed.

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RELIEF VALVECOLD

HOT

Typical vertical pipingarrangement

RELIEF VALVECOLD

HOT

Typical horizontal pipingarrangement

Typical side pipingarrangement

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For increased energy efficiency, somewater heaters have been supplied witha 2-3/8” section of pipe insulation.

Please install the insulation, accordingto the illustrations above, that bestmeets your requirements.

Slip the insulation cover over the T&PValve through the center hole and alignthe hole in the side with the opening ofthe T&P Valve.

RELIEF VALVECOLD

HOT

Typical top connection arrangement Typical side connection arrangement

Relief Valve Insulation Installation

CAUTION: Ensure theT&P Valve opening is notobstructed by theinsulation.

Heat Trap

For increased energy efficiency, somewater heaters have been supplied withfactory installed heat traps in the hotoutlet line and cold water inlet line.

NOTICE: Do not apply heat to the hot orcold water connections. If sweatconnections are used, sweat tubing toadapter before fitting adapter to thewater connections on heater. Any heatapplied to the water supply fittings willpermanently damage the dip tubeand/or heat traps.

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Water Heater Location■ Close to area of heated water

demand.

■ Indoors and protected fromfreezing temperatures.

■ Area free of flammable vapors.

■ Sufficient fresh air supply forproper operation of water heater.

■ Provisions made to protect areafrom water damage.

■ Sufficient room to service heater.

Water Supply■ Water heater completely filled

with water.

■ Air purged from water heater andpiping.

■ Water connections tight and free of leaks.

Relief Valve■ Temperature and Pressure Relief

Valve properly installed anddischarge line run to open drain.

■ Discharge line protected fromfreezing.

Wiring■ Power supply voltage agrees with

water heater rating plate.

■ Branch circuit wire and fusing orcircuit breaker of proper size.

■ Electrical connections tight andunit properly grounded.

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Safety PrecautionsDo turn off power to water heaterif it has been subjected to overheating, fire, flood, physicaldamage.

Do Not turn on water heaterunless it is filled with water.

Do Not turn on water heater ifcold water supply shut-off valve isclosed.

If there is any difficulty inunderstanding or following theOperating Instructions or the Care and Cleaning section, it isrecommended that a qualified personor serviceman perform the work.

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!! Todissipate such gas and to reduce risk of injury, it is recommended that the hot water faucet be opened for severalminutes at the kitchen sink before using any electrical appliance connected to the hot water system. If hydrogenis present, there will be an unusual sound such as air escaping through the pipe as the water begins to flow. Donot smoke or use an open flame near the faucet at the time it is open.

CAUTION: The cause of the high temperaturecondition must beinvestigated by qualifiedservice technician andcorrective action must be taken before placing thewater heater in service again.

Safety ControlsThe water heater is equipped with acombination thermostat and temperaturelimiting control (ECO) that is locatedabove the heating element in contactwith the tank surface. If for any reasonthe water temperature becomesexcessively high, the temperaturelimiting control (ECO) breaks the powercircuit to the heating element. Once thecontrol opens, it must be reset manually.

To reset the temperature limitingcontrol:

Turn off the power to the waterheater.

Remove the jacket access panel(s)and insulation.

The thermostat protective covershould not be removed.

Press the red RESET button.

Replace the insulation and jacketaccess panel(s) before turning onthe power to the water heater.

Emergency Instructions

WARNING: If the water heater hasbeen subjected to flood, fire, orphysical damage, turn off power andwater to the water heater.

Do not operate the water heater againuntil it has been thoroughly checked byqualified service personnel.

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If adjustment is necessary…Turn off the power to the waterheater.

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

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

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

Replace the insulation and jacketaccess panel(s). Turn on the powerto the water heater.

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SERVICING

90°F150°F

125°F

Type 59T thermostat andprotective cover.

Time/Temperature Relationship in Scalds

Temperature Time To Produce a Serious Burn

120°F More than 5 minutes125°F 11/2 to 2 minutes130°F About 30 seconds135°F About 10 seconds140°F Less than 5 seconds145°F Less than 3 seconds150°F About 11/2 seconds155°F About 1 second

Table courtesy of Shriners Burn Institute

DANGER: There is a hotwater scald potential if the thermostat is set too high. Households withsmall children, disabled, orelderly persons mayrequire a 120°F or lowerthermostat setting toprevent contact with HOT water.

Water Temperature SettingThe temperature of the water in thewater heater can be regulated by settingthe temperature dial of the adjustablesurface mounted thermostat(s) locatedbehind the jacket access panel(s).

Dual element heaters have twothermostats.

Safety and energy conservation arefactors to be considered when selectingthe water temperature setting of thewater heater’s thermostat(s). The lowerthe temperature setting, the greater thesavings in energy and operating costs.

To comply with safety regulations thethermostat(s) are factory set at 120°For less where local codes require. This isthe recommended starting point.

Water temperatures above 125°F can cause severe burns or death fromscalding. Be sure to read and follow thewarnings outlined in this manual and onthe label on the water heater. This labelis located on the water heater near thethermostat access panel.

Mixing valves are available for reducingpoint of use water temperature by mixinghot and cold water in branch water lines.Contact a licensed plumber or the localplumbing authority for furtherinformation.

The chart below may be used as a guidein determining the proper watertemperature for your home.

Reset button

Thermostatprotective

cover

Thermostatdial pointer

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Routine Preventative MaintenanceProperly maintained, your water heaterwill provide years of dependable trouble-free service.

It is suggested that a routine preventivemaintenance program be establishedand followed by the user.

It is further recommended that aperiodic inspection of the operatingcontrols, heating element and wiringshould be made by service personnelqualified in electric appliance repair.

Most electrical appliances, even whennew, make some sound when inoperation. If the hissing or singingsound level increases excessively, theelectric heating element may requirecleaning. Contact a qualified installer orplumbing contract to inspect.

At least once a year, lift and release thelever handle on the temperaturepressure relief valve, located near thetop of the water heater, to make certainthe valve operates freely. Allow severalgallons to flush through the dischargeline to an open drain.

A water heater’s tank can act as asetting basin for solids suspended inthe water.It is therefore not uncommonfor hard water deposits to accumulatein the bottom of the tank. It is suggestedthat a few quarts of water be drainedfrom the water heater’s tank every monthto clean the tank of these deposits.

Rapid closing of faucets or solenoidvalves in automatic water usingappliances can cause a banging noiseheard in a water pipe. Strategicallylocated risers in the water pipe systemor water hammer arresting devices canbe used to minimize the problem.

The anode rod should be removed from thewater heater’s tank annually for inspectionand replaced when more than 6″ of corewire is exposed at either end of the rod.

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

NOTICE: Do not remove the anode rodfrom the water heater’s tank, except forinspection and/or replacement, as operation with the anode rodremoved will shorten the life of theglass lined tank and will excludewarranty coverage .

Care and cleaning of the water heater.

Draining the Water Heater

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

DANGER: Before manually operatingthe relief valve, make certain no one willbe exposed to the hot water releasedby the valve. The water drained fromthe tank may be hot enough to presenta scald hazard and should be directedto a suitable drain to prevent injury ordamage.

In order to drain the water heater, turnoff the cold water supply. Open a hotwater faucet or lift the handle on therelief valve to admit air to the tank.

Attach a garden hose to the drain valveon the water heater and direct thestream of water to a drain. Open thevalve.

Vacation and Extended Shut-DownIf the water heater is to remain idle for anextended period of time, the power andwater to the appliance should be turnedoff to conserve energy and prevent abuild-up of dangerous hydrogen gas.

The water heater and piping should bedrained if they might be subjected tofreezing temperatures.

After a long shut-down period, the waterheater’s operation and controls shouldbe checked by qualified service personnel.Make certain the water heater iscompletely filled again before placing it in operation.

NOTICE: Refer to theHydrogen Gas Caution inthe Operating Instructions.

DANGER: Beforemanually operating therelief valve, make certainno one will be exposed tothe danger of coming incontact with the hot waterreleased by the valve. Thewater may be hot enoughto create a scald hazard.The water should bereleased into a suitabledrain to prevent injury orproperty damage.

NOTICE: If the temperatureand pressure relief valve on the hot water heaterdischarges periodically, this may be due to thermalexpansion in a closed water system. Contact the water supplier or your plumbing contractoron how to correct this. Do not plug the relief valve outlet.

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Problem Possible Causes What To Do

Rumbling noise Water conditions in your ● Remove and clean the heating elements.home caused a build up ofscale or mineral depositson the heating elements.

Relief valve Pressure build up caused ● This is an unacceptable condition and must be producing popping by thermal expansion corrected. Contact the water supplier or plumbing noise or draining in a closed system. contractor on how to correct this. Do not plug the

relief valve outlet.

Rattling noise Internal heat trap ● This is normal for heat trap fittings when in operation during periods fittings in operation. and does not indicate a need for service.of water usage

Not enough or Water usage may have ● Wait for the water heater to recover after an abnormal no hot water exceeded the capacity demand.

of the water heater.

A fuse is blown or a circuit ● Replace fuse or reset circuit breaker.breaker tripped.

Electric supply may be off. ● Make sure electric supply to water heater and disconnect switch, if used, are in the ON position.

The thermostat may ● See the Temperature regulation of the water heater be set set too low. section of this manual.

Leaking or open hot ● Make sure all faucets are closed.water faucets.

Electric service to your ● Contact the local electric utility.home may be interrupted.

Improper wiring. ● See the Installing the water heater section of this manual.

Manual reset limit (ECO) ● See the Temperature regulation of the water heater section of this manual.

Cold water inlet ● This is normal. The colder inlet water takes longer temperature may be to heat.colder during the winter months.

Water is too hot The thermostat ● See the Temperature regulation of the water heater is set too high. section of this manual.

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

Before You Call For Service…Troubleshooting TipsSave time and money! Review the chart on thispage first and you may not need to call forservice.

Safety Instructions

Installation InstructionsO

perating InstructionsC

are and Cleaning

Troubleshooting TipsC

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For 20–52 gallon models with single or double elements.

TURN OFF

POWER

BEFORE

SERVICING

140

130120 110

10090

T H E R M - O - D I S C

RE SE T

RE

SET

140

130120 110

10090

T H E R M - O - D I S C

TURN OFF

POWER

BEFORE

SERVICING

Instructions For Placing a Parts OrderTo place orders using a Visa/MasterCard call 800-431-1549.

All parts orders should include:

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

Specify voltage and wattage asmarked on the rating plate.

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

CAUTION: For your safety DO NOTattempt repair of electrical wiring,thermostat(s), heating elements orother operating controls. Refer repairsto qualified service personnel.

Relief valve

Junction box cover

Anode rod

Hot outlet heat tube (on side connect

models only)

Jacket access cover

*These parts are supplied only ondouble element models

Jacket access cover

Thermostat bracket

Cavity insulation

Upper thermostat*

Plate cover

Relief valve

Top Connect Models(see illustration below for other parts)

Dip tube (on top connect models only)

Dip tube gasket (on top connect models only)

Shroud

Shroud

Drain valve

Cold inlet nipple (on side connect

models only)

Anode rod

Junction box cover

Plate cover

Heating element gasket*

Upper thermostat protective cover*

Lower thermostat

Lower thermostat protective cover

Cavity insulation

Heating element*

Thermostat bracket*

Heating element gasket

Heatingelement

**Nipple**Heat Trap

**Nipple

**Heat Trap

**Not suppliedon all models

16

Cavity Insert Instructions

The following instructions are intended forqualified service personnel ONLY, and should

only be done when necessary.In order to replace the thermostat or heating element,remove the cavity insert crossbar by following theinstructions below:

Turn off the power to the water heater.

Remove the jacket access panel(s) and insulation.

Rotate the crossbar up and down until it breaksaway from the remainder of the cavity insert.(See illustration to the left)

Discard the crossbar. It cannot and need not bereplaced.

Replace the thermostat and/or element asnecessary.

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

NOTICE: The cavity insert crossbar is necessaryfor the manufacturing process only. The removalof the crossbar will not interfere with theoperation of the water heater.

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17

18

Wiring diagrams.

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

2

1

2

THERMOSTAT& HIGH TEMP.LIMIT (ECO)

HEATINGELEMENT

RED

BLAC

KBL

ACK

L1 G*

BRANCH CIRCUIT TO ELECTRICALDISTRIBUTION PANEL240 V.

JUN

CTI

ON

BOX

4

L2

RED

1 3

2

UPPER THERMOSTAT& HIGH TEMP. LIMIT

(ECO)

UPPERHEATINGELEMENT

BLU

E

YELL

OW

BLAC

K

L1 G*

BRANCH CIRCUIT TO ELECTRICALDISTRIBUTION PANEL240 V.

JUN

CTI

ON

BOX

4

L2

RED

1 3

1

2BL

ACK

RED

BLAC

K

LOWERHEATINGELEMENT

LOWERTHERMOSTAT

1

2

4

Single Element Models Double Element Models

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19

Rheem Manufacturing CompanyWarranty Registration DepartmentP.O. Box 34070Louisville, KY 40232-4070

Please place in envelope and mail to:

✁ Cut here

✁Cut here

20

✁ Cut here

Consumer Product Ownership Registration

Follow these three steps to protect your new appliance investment:

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

1 2 3Model Number Serial Number

Consumer Product Ownership RegistrationModel NumberWater Heater Serial Number

Important

Mail

Today!

FirstName

Mr. ■■ Ms. ■■ Mrs. ■■ Miss ■■

StreetAddress

City

StateDate Placed

In UseMonth Day Year

ZipCode

Apt. #

LastName

PhoneNumber

_ _

Complete and mailthis ConsumerProduct OwnershipRegistration today.

After mailing theregistration below,store this documentin a safe place. Itcontains informationyou will need shouldyou require service.

Read your Owner'sManual carefully. It will help youoperate your newappliance properly.

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