Bradford White FVIR Defender Safety System... User manual

238-51012-00L REV 6/20
A Spanish language version of these instructions is available by contacting
the company listed on the rating plate.
La versión española de estas instrucciones se puede obtener al scribirle a la
fábrica cuyo nombre aparece en la placa de especificaciones.
For your family’s comfort, safety and convenience, we recommend this
water heater be installed and serviced by a plumbing professional.
GAS-FIRED WATER HEATER
Installation & Operation Instruction Manual For
Flammable Vapor Ignition Resistant System
Equipped Water Heater
WARNING: If the information in these instructions is not followed
exactly, a fire or explosion may result in property damage, personal
injury, or death.
– WHAT TO DO IF YOU SMELL GAS
•DO NOT try to light any appliance.
•DO NOT touch any electrical switch; DO NOT use any phone
in your building.
•Immediately call your gas supplier from a neighbor’s phone.
Follow the gas supplier’s instructions.
•If you cannot reach your gas supplier, call the fire
department.
– Installation and service must be performed by a qualified
installer, service agency, or the gas supplier.
For Your Safety
Do NOT store or use gasoline or other flammable, combustible, or
corrosive vapors and liquids in the vicinity of this our any other appliance.

2
CONGRATULATIONS!
You have 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 Flammable Vapor Ignition
Resistant Gas 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.
Special Flammable Vapor Ignition Resistant System
This water heater is equipped with a Flammable Vapor Ignition Resistant
System. In the event of improper usage or storage of gasoline or other
flammable materials in the location where the water heater is installed, the
technology will resist ignition of the flammable vapors outside the confines of
the water heater.
The Flammable Vapor Ignition Resistant System features:
•Advanced Flame Arrestor Design
•Re-settable Thermal Switch to prevent burner/pilot operation with
restricted airflow
•Piezo Igniter
•Sight Window to observe operation of pilot and burner
FOR YOUR SAFETY: Activation of the Flammable Vapor Ignition Resistant
System occurs when flammable vapors are drawn into the water heater and
are combusted. If flammable vapors are detected:
•Do not try to light any appliance.
•Do not touch any electrical switch.
•Do not use any phone in your building.
•Leave the premises and immediately call the fire department from a
neighbor’s phone. Follow the fire department’s instructions.
Once the flammable vapor has been evacuated, contact your plumbing
professional or the manufacturer for further instructions. Replacement of a
Flammable Vapor Ignition Resistant System equipped water heater due to a
flammable vapor shutdown is not covered under the terms of the limited
warranty.

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TABLE OF CONTENTS Page
GENERAL INFORMATION............................................................ 4
INSTALLATION ............................................................................. 5
Locating The Water Heater.................................................... 5
Minimum Clearances.............................................................. 8
Venting..................................................................................... 9
Combustion Air Supply.......................................................... 10
Water Connections................................................................. 11
Gas Connections.................................................................... 13
GENERAL OPERATION................................................................ 15
Lighting & Shutdown Instructions........................................ 16
Thermostat Adjustment ......................................................... 19
Burner Flame Check............................................................... 21
MAINTENANCE............................................................................. 22
TROUBLESHOOTING................................................................... 24
INSTALLATION DRAWING FOR POTABLE WATER.................. 29
PARTS DIAGRAM ......................................................................... 30
INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS FOR POTABLE WATER AND
SPACE HEATING.......................................................................... 31
NOTES ........................................................................................... 32

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GENERAL INFORMATION
This gas-fired water heater is design certified by CSA International under the
applicable American National Standard, Z21.10.1 or CSA 4.1-(as indicated on the
rating plate), available from CSA International, 8501 East Pleasant Valley Road,
Cleveland, OH U.S.A. 44131-5575.
This water heater must be installed in accordance with local codes. In the absence of
local codes, it must be installed in compliance with the National Fuel Gas Code (ANSI
Z223.1-Latest Edition), or in Canada CAN/CGA B149.1 Natural Gas Installation Code
(Latest Edition) or CAN/CGA B149.2 Propane Installation Code (Latest Edition). The
warranty for this water heater is in effect only when the water heater is installed,
adjusted, and operated in accordance with these Installation and Operating
Instructions. The manufacturer will not be liable for any damage resulting from
alteration and/or failure to comply with these instructions.
This water heater is not design certified for installation in a mobile home. Such an
installation may create a hazardous condition and will nullify the warranty.
This water heater has been designed and certified 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, create a hazardous condition, and nullify the warranty.
Do NOT use this appliance if any external part to the tank has been
submerged in water. You should contact a qualified service technician to
inspect the appliance and to replace any part of the control system including
the combination gas control which has been submerged in water. See the Gas
Connections section of this manual before servicing or replacing a water
heater that has had any external part to the tank submerged in water.
CAUTION
Incorrect operation of this appliance may create a hazard to life and property and
will nullify the warranty.
WARNING
Prior to connecting the gas supply line to a gas fired water heater, ensure that the
gas supply line does not have moisture/water or dirt/scale inside the gas line.
Commonly this check is done at the lowest point in the gas distribution system
prior to gas burning appliances.
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 components for
possible damage. DO NOT install any damaged components. If damage is
evident then please contact the supplier where the water heater was
purchased, or the manufacturer listed on the rating plate for replacement parts.

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General Information cont.-
This water heater has been manufactured for operation at altitudes from sea level to
2000 ft (610 m) (unless otherwise specified on the water heater rating plate). For use
of this appliance at an elevation greater than 2000 ft (610 m), contact the dealer or
manufacturer listed on the rating plate for information on any necessary modification.
Incorrect operation of this appliance may create a hazard to life and property.
Make sure that you check the rating plate and combination gas control on the water
heater to be certain that the type of gas being supplied corresponds with the marking
on the rating plate and combination gas control.
A sacrificial anode is used to extend tank life. Removal of any anode, except for
inspection and/or replacement, will nullify the warranty. 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 probable ignition of gasoline or flammable vapors.
Water heaters in residential garages must be installed and located, or protected, to
avoid physical damage. For other installations refer to local codes. In the absence of
local codes, the water heater must be installed in compliance with the National Fuel
Gas Code, (ANSI Z223.1- Latest Edition), or in Canada CAN/CGA B149.1 Natural Gas
Installation Code (Latest Edition) or CAN/CGA B149.2 Propane Installation Code
(Latest Edition).
The location of this water heater is of the utmost importance. Before installing this
water heater, read the installation section of these instructions. After reading these
Installation and Operation Instructions, select a location for the water heater where the
floor is level and is easily accessible to gas and water supply lines. Do NOT locate the
water heater where water lines could be subjected to freezing temperatures.
Make sure the cold water pipes are NOT located directly above the gas control
so that condensate during humid weather does NOT drip on the controls.
WARNING
Water heaters are heat producing appliances. To avoid damage or injury
there shall be no materials stored against the water heater or vent-air
intake system and proper care shall be taken to avoid unnecessary
contact (especially by children) with the water heater and vent-air intake
components. UNDER NO CIRCUMSTANCES SHOULD FLAMMABLE
MATERIALS, SUCH AS GASOLINE OR PAINT THINNER BE USED OR
STORED IN THE VICINITY OF THIS WATER HEATER, VENT-AIR
INTAKE SYSTEM OR IN ANY LOCATION FROM WHICH FUMES
COULD REACH THE WATER HEATER OR VENT-AIR INTAKE
SYSTEM.

6
Installation (Locating the Water Heater) cont.-
This water heater MUST be installed indoors out of the wind and weather.
To comply with NSF requirements this water heater is to be:
a) Sealed to the floor with sealant, in a smooth and easily cleanable way, or
b) Installed with an optional leg kit that includes legs and/or extensions that
provide a minimum clearance of 6” beneath the water heater.
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 DSA
Headquarters Office, 1102 Q Street, Suite 5100, Sacramento, CA 95811.
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 and 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: Damage to the water heater caused by exposure to corrosive vapors is
NOT covered by the warranty. 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.
WARNING
Liquefied petroleum gases/propane gases are heavier than air and will remain
at floor level if there is a leak. Basements, crawl spaces, closets and areas
below ground level will serve as pockets for accumulation of leaking gas. Before
lighting, smell all around the appliance area for gas. Be sure to smell next to
the floor.
IF YOU SMELL GAS:
• DO NOT try to light any appliance.
• DO NOT touch any electric switch; DO NOT use any telephone in your
building.
• Immediately call your gas supplier from a neighbor’s telephone. Follow the
gas supplier’s instructions.
• If you cannot reach your gas supplier, call the fire department.
DO NOT OPERATE APPLIANCE UNTIL LEAKAGE IS CORRECTED!
WARNING
DO NOT ATTEMPT TO LIGHT ANY GAS APPLIANCE IF YOU ARE NOT
CERTAIN OF THE FOLLOWING:
• Liquefied petroleum gases/propane gas and natural gas have an odorant
added by the gas supplier that aids in detection of the gas.
• Most people recognize this odor as a “sulfur” or “rotten egg” smell.
• Other conditions, such as “odorant fade” can cause the odorant to diminish
in intensity, or “fade”, and not be as readily detectable.
• If you have a diminished sense of smell or are in any way unsure of the
presence of gas, immediately contact your gas supplier from a neighbor’s
telephone.
• Gas detectors are available. Contact your gas supplier or plumbing
professional for more information.

7
Installation (Locating the Water Heater) cont.-
Proper venting practices must be considered when selecting a location for this
water heater. For exact venting specifications, please consult the Venting
section of these Installation and Operation Instructions.
This water heater must be located in an area where leakage of the tank, water
line connections, or 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 and must not restrict proper combustion air flow to 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 at least 3/4 in (1.9 cm) in diameter and pitched for proper
drainage.
It is recommended that a minimum clearance of 4 in (10.2 cm) be provided on
the side of the water heater for servicing and maintenance of the combination
temperature and pressure relief valve.

8
Minimum Clearances
This installation shall allow access to the front of the water heater and
adequate clearance shall be provided for servicing and operating this water
heater. The water heater may be installed on either a combustible or non-
combustible floor. If the water heater is to be installed directly on carpeting, it
shall be installed on top of a metal or wood panel (or equivalent) extending
beyond the full width and depth of the appliance by at least 3 in (7.6 cm) in
any direction or, if the appliance is to be installed in an alcove or closet, the
entire floor shall be covered by the panel.
If the rating plate or the label on the front of the heater specifies
minimum clearances less than those listed in the below table, the water
heater may be installed in accordance with the minimum clearances
listed on the rating plate or the label on the front of the heater.
If it is necessary to install this water heater in an alcove, use the clearances
listed in Figure 1.
Figure 1
WARNING
Failure to adhere to these installation and operating instructions may
create a hazard to life and property and will nullify the warranty.

9
Venting
This water heater has been shipped with a draft diverter for which it was designed with
reference to the horizontal and vertical planes. If removed, the draft diverter must be
replaced in the same position and secured to the jacket top by which it was installed.
This water heater must be connected to a lined masonry chimney or venting system
approved by local codes or ordinances. The vent connector used to attach the draft
diverter outlet to the chimney or approved vent must be of the same diameter as the
draft diverter outlet or larger.
For proper venting in certain installations, a larger vent connector may be needed.
Consult venting tables in ANSI standard (Z223.1-or latest edition), National Fuel Gas
Code and CAN/CGA (B149.1 or B149.2-latest editions) Natural Gas and Propane
Installation Code, or local code officials for proper application for your area.
WARNING
The venting system must be installed properly following all local codes or in the
absence of local codes, the latest edition of the National Fuel Gas Code (ANSI
Z223.1- latest edition), or in Canada, The Natural Gas and Propane Installation
Code (B149.1-00 latest edition). Failure to properly install the venting system
could result in property damage, personal injury, or death.
WARNING
Carefully inspect the venting system of a replacement water heater installation
before connecting to the venting system. All joints in the vent connector must be
securely fastened with screws and fit tightly together. Inspect the venting
system for signs of deterioration (rust and perforation) and replace any sections
that are not in good condition.
The chimney must be lined and in good condition. Check to make sure the
venting system is properly sized for the water heater. If the venting system was
previously sized for another gas appliance that has been removed, the venting
system may now be too large. Refer to the latest edition of the National Fuel
Gas Code (ANSI Z223.1-latest edition), or in Canada, the Natural Gas and
Propane Installation Code (B149.1-00 latest edition) for the correct sizing of
venting systems and common venting with another gas appliance.
DO NOT vent this water heater into the venting system of another gas appliance
designed to vent under positive pressure.
The water heater should be installed as close as practical to the venting system
to minimize the vent connector length required. Refer to local codes for the
distance limitations on vent connector lengths.
At the completion of the water heater installation, the burner and venting system
must be checked for proper operation with all other commonly vented
appliances in operation. Check for spillage of flue products around the outside
relief opening of the draft hood after several minutes of operation. The flame
from a match should be drawn into the draft hood. DO NOT use the water
heater or connected equipment if spillage is detected until the problem is
corrected.
Refer to the latest edition of the National Fuel Gas Code, or in Canada, the
Natural Gas and Propane Installation Code for complete details on the
“Procedure to Be Followed to Place Equipment in Operation”.

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Combustion Air Supply
Provide adequate air for combustion and ventilation. An insufficient supply of air will
cause recirculation of combustion products resulting in air contamination that may be
hazardous to life. Such a condition often will result in a yellow, luminous burner flame,
causing carboning or sooting of the combustion chamber, burners and flue tubes with
possible damage to the water heater.
When an exhaust fan is installed in the same room with a heater, sufficient openings
for air must be provided in the walls. Undersized openings will cause air to be drawn
into the room through the chimney, causing recirculation of combustion products.
Unconfined Spaces
In unconfined spaces in buildings, infiltration may be adequate to provide air for
combustion, ventilation, and dilution of flue gases. However, in buildings of tight
construction (heavily insulated, weather stripping, caulked, vapor barrier, etc.)
additional air may need to be provided using the methods described below.
Confined Spaces
Confined spaces are spaces defined as having less than 50 ft3/1,000 BTU/hr (4.8
m3/kW) of input.
All Air from Inside the Building: The confined space must be provided with two
permanent openings communicating directly with an additional room(s) of sufficient
volume, so that the combined volume of all spaces meets the criteria for an unconfined
space. The total input of all gas utilization equipment installed in the combined space
must be considered in making this determination. Each opening must have a minimum
free area of 1 in2/1000 BTU/hr (2200 mm2/kW) of the total input rating of all gas
utilization equipment in the confined space, but not less than 100 in2(0.06 m2). One
opening must be within 12 in (31 cm) of the top and one within 12 in (31 cm) of the
bottom of the enclosure.
WARNING
Liquefied petroleum gases/propane gas are heavier than air and will remain at
floor level if there is a leak. Basements, crawl spaces, closets and areas below
ground level will serve as pockets for accumulation of leaking gas. Before
lighting, smell all around the appliance area for gas. Be sure to smell next to
the floor.
IF YOU SMELL GAS:
• DO NOT try to light any appliance.
• DO NOT touch any electric switch; DO NOT use any telephone in your
building.
• Immediately call your gas supplier from a neighbor’s telephone. Follow the
gas supplier’s instructions.
• If you cannot reach your gas supplier, call the fire department.
DO NOT OPERATE APPLIANCE UNTIL LEAKAGE IS CORRECTED!
IMPORTANT
The flow of combustion and ventilating air must NOT be obstructed. DO NOT
block or in any way restrict jacket air inlet slots located at the bottom front of the
water heater.