Bradford White ELECTRIC WATER HEATER User manual

238-43565-00H REV 8/10
ELECTRIC WATER HEATER
THE MANUFACTURER OF THIS HEATER WILL NOT BE LIABLE FOR
ANY DAMAGE RESULTING FROM FAILURE TO COMPLY WITH THESE
INSTRUCTIONS. READ THESE INSTRUCTIONS THOROUGHLY
BEFORE STARTING.
For safety, convenience, and best performance, we recommend
this water heater be installed and serviced by a plumbing
professional.
INSTALLATION & OPERATING
INSTRUCTION MANUAL

2
CONGRATULATIONS!
You have just purchased one of the finest water heaters
on the market today!
This installation, operation and instruction manual will
explain in detail the installation and maintenance of your
new Electric Water Heater. We strongly recommend that
you contact a plumbing professional for the installation of
this water heater.
We require that you carefully read this manual, as well as
the enclosed warranty, and refer to it when questions
arise. If you have any specific questions concerning
your warranty, please consult the plumbing professional
from whom your water heater was purchased. For your
records we recommend that you write the model, serial
number and installation date of your water heater in the
maintenance section in the back of this manual.
This manual should be kept with the water heater.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
General Information .......................................................... 3
Installation ......................................................................... 4
Locating The Water Heater........................................... 4
Water Connections........................................................ 6
Electrical Connections.................................................. 11
Amperage Chart.......................................................... 12
GPH Recovery Capacities.......................................... 12
General Operation............................................................. 13
Thermostat Adjustment ................................................ 14
Maintenance....................................................................... 15
Notes .................................................................................. 18

3
GENERAL INFORMATION
This water heater must be installed in accordance with local codes. In the
absence of local codes, install this water heater in accordance with national
or regional requirements.
The best efficiency and longest product life is obtained only when the water
heater is installed, adjusted and operated in accordance with these
Installation and Operating Instructions. The manufacturer will not be held
liable for damage resulting from alteration and/or failure to comply with these
instructions.
This water heater has been designed and listed for the purpose of heating
potable water. The installation and use of this water heater for any purpose
other than the heating of potable water may cause damage to the water
heater and create a hazardous condition.
Do not use this appliance if any part has been under water. Immediately call
a qualified service technician to inspect the appliance and to replace any
part of the control system which has been under water. Depending upon
individual circumstances, it may be necessary to replace the entire water
heater.
Make sure that the voltage being supplied to the water heater is according to
the voltage printed on the product rating plate.
CAUTION
Incorrect operation of this appliance may create a hazard to life and
property and may impair and shorten heater life.
DANGER
Do not store or use gasoline or other flammable, combustible or
corrosive vapors and liquids in the vicinity of this or any other
appliance.
IMPORTANT
Before proceeding, please inspect the water heater and its components for
possible damage. DO NOT install any damaged components. If damage is
evident, please contact the supplier where the water heater was purchased
or the manufacturer listed on the rating plate for replacement parts.

4
General Information continued-
A sacrificial anode(s) is used to extend tank life. Removal of any anode, for
any reason, will shorten the products useful life. In areas where water is
unusually active, an odor may occur at the hot water faucet due to a reaction
between the sacrificial anode and impurities in the water. If this should
happen, an alternative anode(s) may be purchased from the supplier that
installed this water heater. This will minimize the odor while protecting the
tank. Additionally, the water heater should be flushed with appropriate
dissolvers to eliminate any bacteria.
INSTALLATION
Locating The Water Heater
This water heater must NOT be installed in any location where gasoline
or flammable vapors are likely to be present, unless the installation is
such to eliminate the ignition of gasoline or flammable vapors.
The location where this water heater is to be installed will be of utmost
importance. Before installing this water heater, consult the installation
section of these instructions. After reading these installation and operating
instructions, select a location for the water heater where the floor is level and
where the power supply and water connections are easily accessible. It is
recommended that the water heater be located near the center of greatest
hot water usage to reduce heat loss from the pipes.
DO NOT locate the water heater where water lines could be subjected
to freezing temperatures. Locate the water heater so that access
panels and drain valves are accessible.
WARNING
Water heaters are heat-producing appliances. To avoid damage or injury,
there must be no materials stored against the water heater and proper care
must be taken to avoid unnecessary contact (especially by children) with
the water heater. UNDER NO CIRCUMSTANCES SHALL FLAMMABLE
MATERIALS, SUCH AS GASOLINE OR PAINT THINNER BE USED OR
STORED IN THE VICINITY OF THIS WATER HEATER OR ANY
LOCATION FROM WHICH FUMES COULD REACH THE WATER
HEATER.

5
Locating The Water Heater continued-
Water heater corrosion and component failure can be caused by the heating
and breakdown of airborne chemical vapors. Examples of some typical
compounds that are potentially corrosive are: spray can propellants, cleaning
solvents, refrigerator and air conditioning refrigerants, swimming pool
chemicals, calcium or sodium chloride, waxes and process chemicals.
These materials are corrosive at very low concentration levels with little or no
odor to reveal their presence.
NOTE: THE MANUFACTURER OF THIS WATER HEATER WILL NOT
ACCEPT RESPONSIBILTY FOR DAMAGE TO THE WATER HEATER
CAUSED BY EXPOSURE TO CORROSIVE VAPORS. DO NOT OPERATE
THE WATER HEATER IF EXPOSURE HAS OR WILL OCCUR. DO NOT
STORE ANY POTENTIALLY CORROSIVE COMPOUNDS IN THE
VICINITY OF THE WATER HEATER.
This water heater must be located in an area where leakage of the tank or
water line connections and the combination temperature and pressure relief
valve will not result in damage to the area adjacent to the water heater or to
lower floors of the structure. When such locations cannot be avoided, a
suitable drain pan must be installed under the water heater. The drain pan
must have a minimum length and width of at least 4 in. (10.2 cm) greater
than the diameter of the water heater. The drain pan, as described above,
can be purchased from your plumbing professional. The drain pan must be
piped to an adequate drain. The piping must be pitched for proper drainage.
This water heater MUST be installed indoors out of the wind and
weather.
Note: For California installation this water heater must be braced,
anchored, or strapped to avoid falling or moving during an earthquake.
See instructions for correct installation procedures. Instructions may
be obtained from the DSA Headquarters Office, 1102 Q Street, Suite
5100, Sacramento, CA 95811.

6
Water Connections
NOTE: BEFORE PROCEEDING WITH THE INSTALLATION, CLOSE THE
MAIN WATER SUPPLY VALVE.
After shutting the main water supply valve, open a faucet to relieve the water
line pressure to prevent any water from leaking out of the pipes while making
the water connections to the water heater. After the pressure has been
relieved, close the faucet. The cold water inlet line connects to the inlet
nipple at the base of the water heater. The hot water outlet line connects to
the nipple on top of the water heater. The fittings at the cold water inlet and
hot water outlet are dielectric waterway fittings with tapered male threads.
Make the proper plumbing connections between the water heater and the
plumbing system in the structure. Install a shut-off valve in the cold water
supply line.
If this water heater is installed in a closed water supply system, such as one
having a back-flow preventer in the cold water supply, provisions shall be
made to control thermal expansion. DO NOT operate this water heater in a
closed system without provisions for controlling thermal expansion. Your
water supplier or local plumbing inspector should be contacted about how to
control this situation.
After installation of the water lines, open the main water supply valve and fill
the water heater. While the water heater is filling, open several hot water
faucets to allow air to escape from the water system. After a steady stream
of water flows from the faucets, close them and check all water connections
for possible leaks. NEVER OPERATE THE WATER HEATER WITHOUT
FIRST BEING CERTAIN IT IS FILLED WITH WATER.
CAUTION
If sweat fittings are to be used, DO NOT apply heat to the nipples on top
of the water heater. Sweat the tubing to the adapter before fitting the
adapter to the water connections. It is imperative that heat is not applied
to the nipples containing a plastic liner.
IMPORTANT
FAILURE TO INSTALL AND MAINTAIN A NEW, LISTED
TEMPERATURE-PRESSURE RELIEF VALVE WILL RELEASE THE
MANUFACTURER FROM ANY CLAIM, WHICH MIGHT RESULT FROM
EXCESSIVE TEMPERATURE AND PRESSURES.

7
Water Connections continued-
WARNING
For protection against excessive temperatures and pressure, install
temperature and pressure protective equipment required by local codes,
but not less than a combination temperature and pressure relief valve
certified by a nationally recognized testing laboratory that maintains
periodic inspection of production of listed equipment or materials, as
meeting the Requirements for Relief Valves and Automatic Gas Shutoff
Devices for Hot Water Supply Systems, ANSI Z21.22, and the Standard
CAN1-4.4 Temperature, Pressure, Temperature and Pressure Relief
Valves and Vacuum Relief Valves. The combination temperature and
pressure relief valve must be marked with a maximum set pressure, not to
exceed the maximum working pressure of the water heater. The
combination temperature and pressure relief valve shall also have an
hourly rated temperature steam BTU discharge capacity not less than the
hourly input rating of the water heater.
Install the combination temperature and pressure relief valve into the
opening provided and marked for this purpose on the water heater
Note: Some models may already be equipped or supplied with a
combination temperature and pressure relief valve. Verify that the
combination temperature and pressure relief valve complies with local
codes. If the combination temperature and pressure relief valve does not
comply with local codes, replace it with one that does. Follow the
installation instructions above on this page.
Install a discharge line so that water discharged from the combination
temperature and pressure relief valve will exit within six (6) inches (15.3
cm) above, or any distance below the structural floor and cannot contact
any live electrical part. The discharge line is to be installed to allow for
complete drainage of both the temperature and pressure relief valve and
the discharge line. The discharge opening must not be subjected to
blockage or freezing. DO NOT thread, plug or cap the discharge line. It is
recommended that a minimum of four (4) inches (10.2 cm) be provided on
the side of the water heater for servicing and maintenance of the
combination temperature and pressure relief valve.
Do not place a valve between the combination temperature and pressure
relief valve and the tank.

8
Water Connections continued-
This water heater can deliver scalding temperature water at any faucet in the
system. Be careful whenever using hot water to avoid scalding injury.
Certain appliances, such as dishwashers and automatic clothes washers,
may require increased temperature water. By setting the thermostat on this
water heater to obtain increased temperature water required by these
appliances, you might create the potential for scald injury. To protect against
injury, you should install an ASSE approved mixing valve in the water
system. This valve will reduce point of discharge temperature by mixing cold
and hot water in branch supply lines. Such valves are available from the
manufacturer of this water heater or a local plumbing supplier. Please
consult with a plumbing professional.
WARNING
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 reduce the risk of injury under these conditions, 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
probably be an unusual sound such as air escaping through the pipe
as the water begins to flow. There should be no smoking or open
flame near the faucet at the time it is open.
CAUTION
INCREASING THE THERMOSTAT SETTING ABOVE THE PRESET
TEMPERATURE MAY CAUSE SEVERE BURNS AND CONSUME
EXCESSIVE ENERGY. HOTTER WATER INCREASES THE RISK OF
SCALD INJURY.

9
Water Connections continued-
APPROXIMATE TIME/TEMPERATURE RELATIONSHIPS IN SCALDS
120°F (49°C) More than 5 minutes
125°F (52°C) 1½ to 2 minutes
130°F (54°C) About 30 seconds
135°F (57°C) About 10 seconds
140°F (60°C) Less than 5 seconds
145°F (63°C) Less than 3 seconds
150°F (66°C) About 1½ seconds
155°F (68°C) About 1 second
(52°C) can cause severe burns
are at highest risk of being
Children, disabled and elderly
instantly or death from scalds.
Water temperature over 125°F
Feel water before bathing or
before setting temperature
available.
showering.
Temperature limiting valves are
Review this instruction manual
at water heater.
scalded.

10
Water Connections continued-
The hot and cold water connections are identified on the top of the water
heater. Connect the hot and cold water lines to the installed nipples using
unions. Install a listed temperature-pressure relief valve in the opening on
the top of the water heater.
Figure 1

11
Electrical Connections
Before any electrical connections are made, be sure the water heater is full
of water and the manual shut-off valve located in the cold water supply line is
open. If the heating elements are not completely immersed in water at all
times, they will be damaged (burned-out) if energized for even a short period
of time. There is no warranty for burned-out heating elements. Before
proceeding verify a correct electrical connection has been made by checking
the rating plate and wiring diagram. The temperature-limiting device is of the
manual reset, trip-free type and has been factory installed to interrupt all
ungrounded power supply conductors in the event of thermostat failure.
The plumbing supplier in your area ordered this water heater wired at the
factory to comply with existing area codes, but local utility codes may require
or allow other circuitry. Consult your local power company to determine the
correct electrical hook-up in order to meet local utility and building codes and
in order to obtain the most economical rates. All electrical connections to
elements, thermostats, and terminal block have been made at the factory.
DO NOT alter any of the internal wiring. Wiring connections may loosen
during shipment. Check all connections for tightness.
To make the wiring connections to a power supply, follow the steps below.
A) Remove the control box cover panel.
B) Bring the power leads from an adequately sized fused disconnect switch
(not furnished with the water heater due to varying state and local codes)
and connect to the terminal block. Consult your local code and/or utility
authority about the correct wire size for the length of the wire required in
this installation. Longer wire lengths will usually require larger wire size.
C) This water heater must be properly grounded. A ground connection is
provided for connection to a properly sized ground. (See wiring diagram
for minimum required ground size. Wiring diagram is located on the
inside of the element cover)
D) Replace the control box cover panel.

12
Electrical Connections continued-
Heating Elements
To replace heating elements, disconnect power to the water heater, drain
tank and replace element. To remove a heating element, use a 1 1/2” screw
type element wrench that is usually available at places where plumbing
supplies can be obtained. Do not over-tighten the new element, as this will
cause distortion in the new element gasket. Once the element has been
replaced, follow the instructions “To Fill The Water Heater”. It is imperative
that the water heater is filled with water before the power is restored to the
heating elements.
Amperage Chart
Amperage Fuse Size Ground Wire Size
kW 220V 380V 415V 220V 380V 415V (AWG)
Input 1Ø 3Ø 3Ø 1Ø 3Ø 3Ø 220V 380V 415V
6 27 9 8 35 12 10 10 14 14
9 41 14 13 60 20 20 10 14 14
12 55 18 17 70 25 25 8 12 12
13.5 61 21 19 80 30 25 8 10 12
15 68 23 21 90 30 30 8 10 10
16.5 75 25 23 100 35 30 8 10 10
18 82 27 25 110 35 35 8 10 10
GPH Recovery Capacities
kW Temperature Rise
Input 40°F 50°F 60°F 70°F 80°F 90°F 100°F 120°F 130°F 140°F
6 62 50 41 35 31 28 25 21 19 18
9 93 74 62 53 47 41 37 31 29 27
12 124 99 83 71 62 55 50 41 38 35
13.5 140 112 93 80 70 62 56 47 43 40
15 155 125 103 89 78 69 62 52 48 44
16.5 171 137 114 98 86 76 68 57 53 49
18 186 149 124 106 93 83 74 62 57 53
Multiply kW input by 3,412 to determine BTU input:
Example: 54kW x 3412 = 184,248 BTU’s
Recovery Computation Formula
GPH= (watts x 3.412) / (8.25 x °Temp. Rise)

13
GENERAL OPERATION
When the switch is closed, the operation of this electric water heater is
automatic. The water heater thermostat(s) are preset to the “HOT” setting to
provide a water temperature of approximately 140°F (60°C) or below in order
to reduce the risk of scald injury. Care must be taken whenever using hot
water to avoid scalding injury. Certain appliances require high temperature
hot water (such as dishwashers and automatic clothes washers).
TO FILL THE WATER HEATER
1. Close the water heater drain valve by turning the knob clockwise.
2. Open the cold water supply shut-off valve.
3. Open several hot water faucets to allow air to escape from the system.
4. When a steady stream of water flows from the faucets, the water heater
is filled. Close the faucets and check for water leaks at the water heater
drain valve, combination temperature and pressure relief valve and the
hot and cold water connections.
5. Reconnect power supply to water heater.
TO DRAIN THE HEATER
Should it become necessary to completely drain the water heater, make sure
you follow the steps below:
1. Disconnect the power supply to the heater. Consult the plumbing
professional or electric company in your area for service.
2. Close the cold water supply shut-off valve.
3. Open the drain valve on the water heater by turning the knob counter-
clockwise. The drain valve has threads on the end that will allow
connection of a standard hose coupling.
4. Open a hot water faucet to allow air to enter the system.
To refill the water heater, refer to “TO FILL THE WATER HEATER.”
Before closing the switch to allow electric current to flow to the
water heater, make certain that the water heater is full of water and
that the cold water inlet valve is open. Complete failure of the
heating element(s) will result if they are not totally immersed in
water at all times. Failure of the element(s) due to dry-firing is not
covered by warranty.
CAUTION
Scalding may occur within five (5) seconds at a temperature setting of
140°F (60°C).

14
Thermostat Adjustment
The temperature of the water can be changed by adjusting the thermostat(s).
Before any work is done on the water heater, disconnect all power to the
water heater by opening the switch at the main electrical circuit breaker or
fuse box. Remove the access panels and fold the insulation outward away
from the controls. Set the thermostat(s) to the desired water temperature by
using a screwdriver to move the thermostat dial. The thermostat has been
factory preset to approximately 140°F (60°C) or below. Rotate the
temperature dial clockwise to increase water temperature. Replace the
insulation making sure the controls are well covered and the plastic terminal
shield has not been displaced; replace the access panel. The water heater
is now ready for operation and the main switch can be closed.
Figure 2
CAUTION
Before adjusting thermostat(s), turn off power supply to the water heater.
DANGER
Hotter water increases the risk of scald injury. Scalding may occur within
five (5) seconds at a temperature setting of 140°F (60°C). To protect
against hot water injury, install an ASSE approved mixing valve in the water
system. This valve will reduce point of discharge water temperatures by
mixing cold and hot water in branch water lines. A licensed plumbing
professional or local plumbing authority should be consulted.
Note: This water heater is equipped with an energy cut out device to
prevent overheating. Should overheating occur, turn off the electrical
supply to the water heater and contact a qualified service technician.

15
MAINTENANCE
Shut off the electric power whenever the water supply to the water heater is
off. Shut off the electric power and water supply, drain the heater completely
to prevent freezing whenever the building is left unoccupied during the cold
weather months. In order to insure efficient operation and long tank life,
drain the water heater at least once a month through the drain valve until the
water runs clear. Failure to do this may result in noisy operation and lime
and sediment buildup in the bottom of the tank. Check the temperature-
pressure relief valve to insure that the valve has not become encrusted with
lime. Lift the lever at the top of the valve several times until the valve
operates freely and seats properly without leaking.
The following, maintenance should be performed by a qualified service
technician at the minimum periodic intervals suggested below. In some
installations, the maintenance interval may be more frequent depending on
the amount of use and the operating conditions of the water heater. Regular
inspection and maintenance of the water heater will help to insure safe and
reliable operation.
1. Annually, check the operation of the thermostat(s).
2. Bi-annually, check the seal around the heating elements for leaks. If there
is any sign of leaking, disconnect the power supply to the water heater
and contact the plumbing professional that installed this water heater or a
qualified service technician.
IMPORTANT
The water heater should be inspected at a minimum of annually by a
qualified service technician for damaged components. DO NOT operate
this water heater if any part is found damaged.
WARNING
When lifting lever of temperature-pressure relief valve, hot water will be
released under pressure. Be certain that any released water does not
result in bodily injury or property damage. The magnesium anode rod
should be inspected periodically and replaced when necessary to prolong
tank life.

16
Maintenance continued-
3. At least once a year, check the combination temperature and pressure
relief valve to insure that the valve has not become encrusted with lime.
Lift the lever at the top of the temperature-pressure relief valve several
times until the valve seats properly without leaking and operates freely.
4. If the combination temperature and pressure relief valve on the appliance
discharges periodically, this may be due to thermal expansion in a closed
water supply system. Contact the water supplier or local plumbing
inspector on how to correct this situation. Do not plug the combination
temperature and pressure relief valve outlet for any reason.
5. Monthly, drain off a gallon of water from the water heater to remove silt
and sediment.
6. A combination sacrificial anode rod/hot water outlet nipple has been
installed to extend tank life. The anode rod should be inspected
periodically (every 2 years) and replaced when necessary to prolong tank
life. Water conditions in your area will influence the time interval for
inspection and replacement of the anode rod. Contact the plumbing
professional who installed the water heater or the manufacturer listed on
the rating plate for anode replacement information. The use of a water
softener may increase the speed of anode consumption. More frequent
inspection of the anode is needed when using softened (or phosphate
treated) water.
WARNING
When lifting lever of temperature-pressure relief valve, hot water will be
released under pressure. Be certain that any released water does not
result in bodily injury or property damage.
WARNING! THIS WATER MAY BE HOT.
CAUTION
FOR YOUR SAFETY, DO NOT ATTEMPT TO REPAIR THERMOSTAT(S),
HEATING ELEMENTS, OR ELECTRICAL WIRING. REFER SUCH
REPAIRS TO A QUALIFIED SERVICE TECHNICIAN.

17
Maintenance continued-
Contact your local plumbing supplier or plumbing professional for
replacement parts or contact the company at the address displayed on the
rating plate of the water heater.
For faster and better service, please provide the part name, model, and
serial number(s) of the water heater(s) when ordering parts.
Complete the following information and retain for future reference:
Model No:
Serial No:
Service Phone
Days: Nights:
Address:
Supplier:
Supplier Phone No:
Manufactured under one or more of the following U.S. Patents: RE.34,534; B1
5,341,770; 4,416,222; 4,628,184; 4,669,448; 4,672,919; 4,808,356; 4,829,983;
4,861,968; 4,904,428; 5,000,893; 5,023,031; 5,052,346; 5,081,696; 5,092,519;
5,115,767; 5,199,385; 5,277,171; 5,372,185; 5,485,879; 5,574,822; 5,596,952;
5,660,165; 5,682,666; 5,761,379; 5,943,984; 5,954,492; 5,988,117; 6,142,216;
6,684,821; 7,063,132; 7,007,748; Other U.S. and Foreign patent applications
pending. Current Canadian Patents: 1,272,914; 1,280,043; 1,289,832; 2,045,862;
2,092,105; 2,107,012; 2,108,186; 2,112,515.

20
NOTES

(To be performed ONLY by qualified service providers)
Save this manual for future reference
Manual 239-47157-00B
Commercial Electric Energy Saver:
E32-50S
E32-80R
E32-120R

Page Service Procedure
Introduction ………………………………………………………………………. 2 - - -
Tools……………………………………………………………………………… 2 - - -
General Information ……………………………………………………………… 3 - - -
Sequence of Operation …………………………………………………………… 5 - - -
Field Conversion of kW, Voltage and Phase…………………………………….. 6 - - -
Troubleshooting …………………………………………………………………. 9 - - -
Heating Element Testing ……………................................................................... 11 E32-I
Line Voltage Testing………………...…………………………………………... 12 E32-II
Fuse and ECO Testing…........................................................................................ 13 E32-III
Thermostat Operation Testing ……..................................................................... 14 E32-IV
Thermostat Removal and Replacement …………………………………………. 15 E32-V
Heating Element Removal and Replacement ……………………………………. 16 E32-VI
Dip Tube and Anode Inspection and Replacement ……………………………… 17 E32-VII
Generic Parts List ………………………………………………………………... 18 - - -
Page 2
This service manual is designed to aid service and maintenance professionals on the function, proper diagnosis and repair of
Bradford White medium duty commercial electric water heaters.
The text and illustrations in this manual provide step by step instructions to facilitate proper operation and troubleshooting
procedures. Contact the Bradford White Technical Support Group immediately if diagnosis can not be made using the
methods described in this service manual.
E32 Medium Duty Commercial
Electric Water Heaters
- Multi Meter. - Phillips Head Screw Driver.
- 1-½ Deep Well Socket (element removal). - Thermometer.
- ¼" Nut Driver. - Drain Hose.
- Various Hand Tools: Pipe Wrench, Channel Locks, Pliers (common & needle nose), Wire cutters, Wire Strippers,
Flash Light.