Use & Care Manual
With Installation Instructions for the Installer
Electric
Water Heaters
For Manufactured Housing (Mobile Home)
Single and Double
Element Models
Side or Top Water
Connections
Residential 20–52 Gallon
Model: GE Series
The purpose of this manual is twofold:
one, to provide the installer with the 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.
!
Manufactured under trademark license by:
Rheem Manufacturing Company
2600 Gunter Park Drive East, Montgomery, AL 36124-4020
®
LISTED
786H
Printed in USA
Part No. AP12170-4 (11/03) Pub. No. 49-50012-4 11-03 JR
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IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION.
READ ALL INSTRUCTIONS BEFORE USING.
WARNING!
WATER TEMPERATURE ADJUSTMENT
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.
Time/Temperature Relationship in Scalds
Water Temperature Time To Produce a Serious Burn
!
D A N G E R
120°F
More than 5 minutes
11/2 to 2 minutes
125°F
130°F
135°F
140°F
145°F
150°F
155°F
About 30 seconds
About 10 seconds
Less than 5 seconds
Less than 3 seconds
About 11/2 seconds
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 for
your home.
HOT
NOTICE: Households with small children, disabled,
or elderly persons may require a 120°F or lower
thermostat setting to prevent contact with “HOT”
water.
BURN
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.
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.
The illustration at the left
See instruction manual before
setting temperature at water
heater.
shows the temperature
Reset button
adjustment dial used
for setting the water
Thermostat
temperature.
dial pointer
Feel water before bathing or
showering.
Refer to the Operating
150°F
90°F
125°F
Instructions in this
Temperature limiting valves are
available, see manual.
TURN OFF
POWER
manual for detailed
BEFORE
SERVICING
Thermostat
protective
cover
instructions in how to
adjust the thermostat(s).
NOTICE: Mixing valves are available for reducing point of
use water temperature by mixing hot and cold water in
branch water lines are available. Contact a licensed
plumber or the local plumbing authority for further
information.
!
DANGER: Hotter water increases the Potential
for Hot Water SCALDS.
3
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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 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 916-324-5315 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 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.
● Read this manual entirely before
● 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.
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.
READ AND FOLLOW THIS SAFETY INFORMATION
CAREFULLY.
SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS
4
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Installing the water heater.
The location chosen for the water heater must take into consideration the following:
Local Installation Regulations
The installation of this water heater
must be in accordance with the
Manufactured Home Construction and
Safety Standard (Title 24, CFR; Part
3280) and the following instructions;
and local codes governing the
If additional wiring information is desired,
the latest edition of the National
Electrical Code is recommended. It is
available from some local libraries or can
be purchased from the National Fire
Protection Association, 1 Batterymarch
Park, Quincy, MA 02269 as booklet
ANSI/NFPA 70.
installation of water heaters in
manufactured homes (mobile homes).
Location
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.
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.
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.
B
A—Diameter of water
heater plus 2″ min.
B—Maximum 2″
To open drain, line
should be at least 3/4″
ID and pitched for
proper drainage.
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.
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.
5
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Installing the water heater.
Thermal Expansion
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.
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 softerner. 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”.
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 addition
information regarding this subject.
As water is heated, it expands in volume
and creates an increase in the 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 system piping. This
NOTICE: Do not apply heat
to the HOT or COLD water
Water Supply Connections
Refer to the illustration below 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 if
necessary. The HOT and COLD water connections are clearly marked and are 3/4″ NPT on
all models. Install a shut-off valve in the cold water line near the water heater.
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.
Typical Side Connect Installation
Anode
To electrical
distribution panel
Electrical junction box
(use only copper conductors)
Temperature & pressure relief
valve
Union
Jacket access
panel
Hot water outlet to fixtures
Union
Shut-off valve
To cold water supply
Jacket access
panel
Drain valve
Relief valve
discharge line.
Directed to under
side of home.
Auxiliary catch pan
6
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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.
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).
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.
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.
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.
To Fill the Water Heater
Make certain the drain valve is completely
closed.
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.)
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.
Typical Top Connect Installation
To electrical
distribution panel
Anode
Temperature & pressure relief
valve
Heat trap
6″ Min.
Electrical junction box
(use only copper conductors)
O
C
To cold water
supply
A
L
V
E
L
E
I
E
F
T
O
H
Union
Shut-off valve
Union
Heat trap
6″ Min.
Jacket access
panel
Hot water outlet to fixtures
Relief valve
discharge line.
Directed to under
side of home.
Jacket access
panel
Drain valve
Auxiliary
catch pan
7
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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 electrically
isolated.
Ground screw
Electrical Connections
A separate branch circuit with copper
conductors, overcurrent protective device
and suitable disconnecting means must
be provided by a qualified electrician.
All wiring must conform to local codes
or latest edition of National Electrical
Code ANSI/NFPA 70.
The water heater is completely wired to
the junction box inside jacket at the top
front of the water heater. An opening for
1/2″ or 3/4″ electrical fitting is provided
for field wiring connections.
The branch circuit wiring should
include either:
G
ARNIN
G
W
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.
Junction
box
cover
Conduit
connector
Wire connections
Water heater junction box.
The voltage requirements and wattage load
for the water heater are specified on the
rating plate on the front of the water heater.
Branch Circuit Sizing and Wire Size Guide
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.
Total Water
Heater Wattage
Recommended Over Current Protection
(fuse or circuit breaker amperage rating)
Copper Wire Size AWG Based
on N.E.C. Table 310-16 (75°C)
120V
20
20
25
30
35
–
–
–
–
–
208V
15
15
15
15
20
25
25
25
30
30
35
40
–
240V
15
15
15
15
20
20
20
25
25
30
30
35
50
120V
12
12
10
10
8
–
–
–
–
208V
14
14
14
14
12
10
10
10
10
10
8
240V
14
14
14
14
12
12
12
10
10
10
10
8
1500*
1700
2000
2500
3000
3500
3800
4000
4500
5000
5500
6000
9000
–
–
–
–
–
–
8
–
–
8
*Less than 1500 watts may be wired 14 gauge with 15 amp protection. Check Local Electrical Codes, as they will also apply.
Condensation
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 temperatures.
Additional information on this subject
may be found at www.rheem.com
under “Library,” scroll down to the
Technical Service Bulletins 1400 Series
Section and choose Bulletin #1402.
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.
8
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Insulation Blankets
!
WARNING: If local
codes require external
application of insulation
blanket kits the
manufacturer’s instructions
included with the kit must
be carefully followed.
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 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
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.
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.
Hot and Cold Pipe Insulation Installation
H
O
T
C
O
L
H
O
C
O
Typical side piping
arrangement
Typical horizontal piping
arrangement
Typical vertical piping
arrangement
For increased energy efficiency, some
water heaters have been supplied with
two 24” sections of pipe insulation.
Please install the insulation, according to
the illustrations above, that best meets
your requirements.
9
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Installing the water heater.
Relief Valve Insulation Installation
CAUTION: Ensure the
T&P Valve opening is not
obstructed by the
insulation.
H
O
T
C
O
L
D
Typical top connection arrangement
Typical side connection arrangement
For increased energy efficiency, some
water heaters have been supplied with
a 2-3/8” section of pipe insulation.
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.
Please install the insulation, according
to the illustrations above, that best
meets your requirements.
Heat Trap
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
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Installation checklist.
Water Heater Location
● Close to area of heated water
● Provisions made to protect area
demand.
from water damage.
● Indoors and protected from
● Sufficient room to service heater.
freezing temperatures.
● Area free of flammable vapors.
● Sufficient fresh air supply for
proper operation of water heater.
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.
11
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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
If there is any difficulty in
Do turn off power to water heater
if it has been subjected to over
heating, fire, flood, physical
damage.
understanding or following the
Operating Instructions or the
Care and Cleaning section, it is
recommended that a qualified person
or serviceman perform the work.
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.
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
To reset the temperature limiting
control:
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
Turn off the power to the water
heater.
Remove the jacket access panel(s)
and insulation.
excessively high, the temperature
limiting control (ECO) breaks the power
circuit to the heating element. Once the
control opens, it must be reset manually.
The thermostat protective cover
should not be removed.
service again.
Press the red RESET button.
Replace the insulation and jacket
access panel(s) before turning on
the power to the water heater.
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
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Water Temperature Setting
The temperature of the water in the
Water temperatures above 125°F
DANGER: There is a hot
water scald potential
if the thermostat is set
too high. Households with
small children, disabled, or
elderly persons may
require a 120°F or lower
thermostat setting to
prevent contact with
HOT water.
water heater can be regulated by setting can cause severe burns or death from
the temperature dial of the adjustable
scalding. Be sure to read and follow the
surface mounted thermostat(s) located warnings outlined in this manual and on
behind the jacket access panel(s).
the label on the water heater. This label
is located on the water heater near the
thermostat access panel.
Dual element heaters have two
thermostats.
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
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.
information.
The chart below may be used as a guide
in determining the proper water
temperature for your home.
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.
Time/Temperature Relationship in Scalds
Temperature
Time To Produce a Serious Burn
120°F
125°F
More than 5 minutes
11/2 to 2 minutes
130°F
135°F
140°F
145°F
150°F
About 30 seconds
About 10 seconds
Less than 5 seconds
Less than 3 seconds
About 11/2 seconds
About 1 second
155°F
Table courtesy of Shriners Burn Institute
If adjustment is necessary…
Turn off the power to the water
heater.
Using a small screwdriver, set the
thermostat(s) dial pointer(s) to
the desired temperature.
Reset button
Remove the jacket access panel(s)
and insulation exposing the
thermostat(s).
Thermostat
dial pointer
Replace the insulation and jacket
access panel(s). Turn on the power
to the water heater.
150°F
90°F
125°F
The thermostat protective cover(s)
should not be removed.
TURN OFF
POWER
BEFORE
Thermostat
protective
cover
SERVICING
Type 59T thermostat and
protective cover.
13
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Care and cleaning of the water heater.
Draining the Water Heater
In order to drain the water heater, turn
CAUTION: Shut off power to the
water heater before draining water.
off the cold water supply. Open a hot
water faucet or lift the handle on the
relief valve to admit air to the tank.
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.
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
NOTICE: Refer to the
Hydrogen Gas Caution in
the Operating Instructions.
If the water heater is to remain idle for an After a long shut-down period, the water
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.
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.
The water heater and piping should be
drained if they might be subjected to
freezing temperatures.
Routine Preventative Maintenance
Properly maintained, your water heater
will provide years of dependable trouble-
free service.
A water heater’s tank can act as a
DANGER: Before
setting 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.
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
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.
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.
released into a suitable
drain to prevent injury or
property damage.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 .
14
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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.
Problem
Possible Causes
What To Do
Rumbling noise
Water conditions in your
home caused a build up of
scale or mineral deposits
on the heating elements.
● Remove and clean the heating elements.
Relief valve
producing popping
noise or draining
Pressure build up caused
by thermal expansion
in a closed system.
● This is an unacceptable condition and must be
corrected. Contact the water supplier or plumbing
contractor on how to correct this. Do not plug the
relief valve outlet.
Rattling noise
during periods
of water usage
Internal heat trap
fittings in operation.
● This is normal for heat trap fittings when in operation
and does not indicate a need for service.
Not enough or
no hot water
Water usage may have
exceeded the capacity
of the water heater.
● Wait for the water heater to recover after an abnormal
demand.
A fuse is blown or a circuit
breaker tripped.
● Replace fuse or reset circuit breaker.
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
be set set too low.
● See the Temperature regulation of the water heater
section of this manual.
Leaking or open hot
water faucets.
● Make sure all faucets are closed.
● Contact the local electric utility.
Electric service to your
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
temperature may be
colder during the
winter months.
● This is normal. The colder inlet water takes longer
to heat.
Water is too hot
The thermostat
is set too high.
● See the Temperature regulation of the water heater
section of this manual.
CAUTION: For your safety DO NOT attempt repair of electrical wiring, thermostats, heating elements or other
safety devices. Refer repairs to qualified service personnel.
15
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Replacement Parts.
For 20–52 gallon models with single or double elements.
Instructions For Placing a Parts Order
To place orders using a Visa/MasterCard
call 800-431-1549.
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.
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.
**Heat Trap
**Nipple
Relief valve
**Heat Trap
**Nipple
Dip tube (on top connect models only)
Dip tube gasket
(on top connect models only)
Anode rod
Junction box cover
Plate cover
Top Connect Models
(see illustration below for other parts)
**Not supplied
on all models
Anode rod
Junction box cover
Plate cover
Upper thermostat*
Upper thermostat protective cover*
Cavity insulation
S
E
T
E
R
R
E
T
E
S
90
140
130
100
1
1
0
D
I
S
C
120
O
-
M
-
H
E
R
T
FF
R
O
U
RN
E
T
W
P
O
R
E
E
FO
I
N
G
B
C
I
RV
SE
Relief valve
Jacket access cover
Hot outlet heat tube
(on side connect
models only)
Thermostat bracket*
Shroud
Heating element*
Heating element gasket*
Lower thermostat
Lower thermostat protective cover
Cavity insulation
Shroud
90
140
130
0
10
1
1
-
0
O
D
I
S
C
120
-
R
M
T
H
E
FF
R
O
U
RN
E
T
W
P
O
R
E
E
FO
I
N
G
B
I
C
RV
SE
Jacket access cover
Thermostat bracket
Drain valve
Heating
element
Cold inlet nipple
(on side connect
models only)
*These parts are supplied only on
double element models
16
Heating element gasket
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Cavity Insert Instructions
The following instructions are intended for
qualified 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 the
instructions 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 breaks
away from the remainder of the cavity insert.
(See illustration to the left)
Discard the crossbar. It cannot and need not be
replaced.
Replace the thermostat and/or element as
necessary.
Replace the insulation and jacket access panel(s)
before turning on the power to the water heater.
NOTICE: The cavity insert crossbar is necessary
for the manufacturing process only. The removal
of the crossbar will not interfere with the
operation of the water heater.
17
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Wiring diagrams.
Wiring Diagrams for Type–59T Therm-o-disc Thermostats
Single Element Models
Double Element Models
BRANCH CIRCUIT
TO ELECTRICAL
DISTRIBUTION PANEL
240 V.
BRANCH CIRCUIT
TO ELECTRICAL
DISTRIBUTION PANEL
240 V.
G*
G*
L1
L2
L1
L2
UPPER THERMOSTAT
& HIGH TEMP. LIMIT
(ECO)
1
2
1
3
4
1
2
1
3
4
4
THERMOSTAT
& HIGH TEMP.
LIMIT (ECO)
2
2
UPPER
HEATING
ELEMENT
HEATING
ELEMENT
LOWER
THERMOSTAT
1
2
LOWER
HEATING
ELEMENT
18
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Cut here
●
Please place in envelope and mail to:
Rheem Manufacturing Company
Warranty Registration Department
P.O. Box 34070
Louisville, KY 40232-4070
19
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Consumer Product Ownership Registration
Follow these three steps to protect your
new appliance investment:
Complete and mail
this Consumer
Product Ownership
Registration today.
After mailing the
Read your Owner's
Manual carefully.
It will help you
operate your new
appliance properly.
registration below,
store this document
in a safe place. It
contains information
you will need should
you require service.
1 2 3
Model Number
Serial Number
If you require service, call 800-431-1549.
Cut here
●
Consumer Product Ownership Registration
Water Heater
Model Number
Serial Number
Mr. ● Ms. ● Mrs. ● Miss ●
First
Name
Last
Name
Street
Address
Apt. #
City
Zip
Code
State
Date Placed
In Use
Month
Day
Year
Phone
Number
_
_
NOTICE: Failure to complete and return this card does not diminish your limited warranty rights.
20
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