GE AP12170-4 User manual

Water Heaters
Electric
For Manufactured Housing (Mobile Home)
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.
!
!
Single and Double
Element Models
Side or Top Water
Connections
Residential 20–52 Gallon
®
LISTED
786H
Part No. AP12170-4 (11/03) Pub. No. 49-50012-4 11-03 JR
Manufactured under trademark license by:
Rheem Manufacturing Company
2600 Gunter Park Drive East, Montgomery, AL 36124-4020
Printed in USA
Use & Care Manual
With 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 Call
For Service. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Customer Service
Parts List . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Wiring Diagram . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Product Registration . . 19, 20
2
Customer Service Troubleshooting Tips Care and Cleaning Operating Instructions Installation Instructions Safety Instructions
Inside you will find many helpful hints on how to use and maintain
your water heater properly. Just a little preventive care on your
part can save you time and money over the life of your water
heater.
You’ll find many answers to common problems in the Before You
Call For Service section. If you review our chart of Troubleshooting
Tips first, you may not need to call for service at all.
READ THIS MANUAL
FOR YOUR RECORDS
Write the model and serial numbers here:
#
#
You can find them on a label on the appliance.
Staple sales slip or cancelled check here.
Proof of the original purchase date is needed to obtain service
under the warranty.
IMPORTANT!
Fill out and return the Consumer Product Registration Card that is
in the back of this manual.
If you do need service, you can relax knowing help is only a phone
call away. For service call 800-431-1549.
IF YOU NEED SERVICE
Your safety and the safety of others are very important. There are
many important safety messages in this manual and on your
appliance. Always read and obey all safety messages.
This is the safety alert symbol. Recognize this symbol
as an indication of Important Safety Information! This
symbol alerts you to potential hazards that can kill or
hurt you and others.
All safety messages will follow the safety alert symbol and either
the word “DANGER”, “WARNING”, “CAUTION” or “NOTICE”.
These words mean:
DANGER An imminently hazardous situation that will
result in death or serious injury.
WARNING A potentially hazardous situation that could
result in death or serious injury and/or
damage to property.
CAUTION A potentially hazardous situation that may
result in minor or moderate injury.
Notice:Attention is called to observe a specified
procedure or maintain a specific condition.
!
!
!
READ THE SAFETY INFORMATION
!

Safety Instructions Installation Instructions Operating Instructions Care and Cleaning Troubleshooting Tips Customer Service
Time/Temperature Relationship in Scalds
Water Temperature Time To Produce a Serious Burn
120°F More than 5 minutes
125°F 11/2to 2 minutes
130°F About 30 seconds
135°F About 10 seconds
140°F Less than 5 seconds
145°F Less than 3 seconds
150°F About 11/2seconds
155°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 for
your home.
NOTICE: Households with small children, disabled,
or elderly persons may require a 120°F or lower
thermostat setting to prevent contact with “HOT”
water.
The temperature of the water in the heater is
regulated by the adjustable surface mounted
thermostat(s) located behind the jacket access
panel(s). Dual element heaters have two
thermostats. To comply with safety regulations
the thermostat(s) were set at 120°F before the
water heater was shipped from the factory.
The illustration at the left
shows the temperature
adjustment dial used
for setting the water
temperature.
Refer to the Operating
Instructions in this
manual for detailed
instructions in how to
adjust the thermostat(s).
DANGER: Hotter water increases the Potential
for Hot Water SCALDS.
!
DANGER
!
HOT
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.
See instruction manual before
setting temperature at water
heater.
Feel water before bathing or
showering.
Temperature limiting valves are
available, see manual.
BURN
R
E
S
E
T
R
E
S
E
T
TURN OFF
POWER
BEFORE
SERVICING
90°F150°F
125°F
IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION.
READ ALL INSTRUCTIONS BEFORE USING.
3
Reset button
Thermostat
protective
cover
Thermostat
dial pointer
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.
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.

4
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.
READ AND FOLLOW THIS SAFETY INFORMATION
CAREFULLY.
SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS
Customer Service Troubleshooting Tips Care and Cleaning Operating Instructions Installation Instructions Safety Instructions
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
installing or operating the water heater.
●Use this appliance only for its intended
purpose as described in this Use and
Care Manual.
●Be sure your appliance is properly
installed in accordance with local codes
and the provided installation
instructions.
●Do not attempt to repair or replace any
part of your water heater unless it is
specifically recommended in this manual.
All other servicing should be referred to a
qualified technician.
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS

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
installation of water heaters in
manufactured homes (mobile homes).
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.
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.
Place the water heater in such a manner
that the thermostat and element
access panels can be removed to permit
inspection and servicing such as removal
of elements or checking controls.
The water heater and water lines should
be protected from freezing
temperatures. Do not install the water
heater in outdoor, unprotected areas.
CAUTION: The water heater should
not be located in an area where leakage
of the tank or connections will result in
damage to the area adjacent to it or to
lower floors of the structure. Where
such areas cannot be avoided, it is
recommended that a suitable catch
pan, adequately drained, be installed
under the water heater.
A—Diameter of water
heater 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 water
heater was purchased, or any water heater distributor.
B
ATo open drain, line
should be at least 3/4″
ID and pitched for
proper drainage.
Safety Instructions Installation Instructions Operating Instructions Care and Cleaning Troubleshooting Tips Customer Service
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

Installing the water heater.
6
Thermal Expansion
Water Supply Connections
Typical Side Connect Installation
Anode
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.
Customer Service Troubleshooting Tips Care and Cleaning Operating Instructions Installation Instructions Safety Instructions
To electrical
distribution panel
Electrical junction box
(use only copper conductors)
Temperature & pressure relief
valve
Union
To cold water supply
Relief valve
discharge line.
Directed to under
side of home.
Union
Hot water outlet to fixtures
Jacket access
panel
Shut-off valve
Jacket access
panel
Auxiliary catch pan
Drain valve
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.
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”.
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
rapid pressure increase can quickly reach
the safety setting of the relief valve,
causing it to operate during each heating
cycle. Thermal expansion, and the resulting
rapid and repeated expansion and
contraction of components in the water
heater and piping system can cause
premature failure of the relief valve, and
possibly the heater itself. Replacing the
relief valve will not correct the problem.
The suggested method of controlling
thermal expansion is to install an
expansion tank in the cold water line
between the water heater and the check
valve. The expansion tank is designed with
an air cushion built in that compresses as
the system pressure increases, thereby
relieving the over pressure condition and
eliminating the repeated operation of the
relief valve. Other methods of controlling
thermal expansion are also available.
Contact your installing contractor, water
supplier or plumbing inspector for addition
information regarding this subject.

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.
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).
Connect the outlet of the relief valve
to a suitable open drain so that the
discharge water cannot contact live
electrical parts or persons and to
eliminate potential water damage.
Piping used should be of a type approved
for hot water distribution. The discharge
line must be no smaller than the outlet
of the valve and must pitch downward
from the valve to allow complete
drainage (by gravity) of the relief valve
and discharge line. The end of the
discharge line should not be threaded or
concealed and should be protected from
freezing. No valve of any type, restriction
or reducer coupling should be installed in
the discharge line.
To Fill the Water Heater
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.)
Make certain the drain valve is completely
closed.
Open the shut-off valve in the cold water
supply line.
Open each hot water faucet slowly to
allow the air to vent from the water
heater and piping.
A steady flow of water from the hot water
faucet(s) indicates a full water heater.
Safety Instructions Installation Instructions Operating Instructions Care and Cleaning Troubleshooting Tips Customer Service
Typical Top Connect Installation
HOT
COLD
E
L
I
E
F
A
L
V
E
Anode
To electrical
distribution panel
Temperature & pressure relief
valve
Electrical junction box
(use only copper conductors)
Relief valve
discharge line.
Directed to under
side of home.
Union
Hot water outlet to fixtures
Heat trap
6″Min.
Heat trap
6″Min.
Jacket access
panel
Union
Jacket access
panel
Shut-off valve
To cold water
supply
Auxiliary
catch pan
Drain valve
7

8
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.
Customer Service Troubleshooting Tips Care and Cleaning Operating Instructions Installation Instructions Safety Instructions
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 240V
1500* 20 15 15 12 14 14
1700 20 15 15 12 14 14
2000 25 15 15 10 14 14
2500 30 15 15 10 14 14
3000 35 20 20 8 12 12
3500 – 25 20 – 10 12
3800 – 25 20 – 10 12
4000 – 25 25 – 10 10
4500 – 30 25 – 10 10
5000 – 30 30 – 10 10
5500 – 35 30 – 8 10
6000 – 40 35 – 8 8
9000 – – 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 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 voltage requirements and wattage load
for the water heater are specified on the
rating plate on the front of the water heater.
The branch circuit wiring should
include either:
Metallic conduit or metallic sheathed
cable approved for use as a grounding
conductor and installed with
fittings approved for the purpose.
Non-metallic sheathed cable, metallic
conduit or metallic sheathed cable
not approved for use as a ground
conductor shall include a separate
conductor for grounding. It should
be attached to the ground terminals
of the water heater and the electrical
distribution box.
WARNING
WARNING
Water heater junction box.
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.
Ground screw
Junction
box
cover
Wire connections
Conduit
connector
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.
This condition is not unusual, and will
disappear after the water becomes
heated. If, however, the condensation
continues, examine the piping and fittings
for possible leaks.
Additional information on this subject
may be found at www.rheem.com
under “Library,” scroll down to the
Technical Service Bulletins 1400 Series
Section and choose Bulletin #1402.

9
Insulation Blankets
Insulation blankets, available to the
general public, for external use on electric
water heaters are not necessary. The
purpose of an insulation blanket is to
reduce the standby heat loss encountered
with storage tank heaters. This water
heater meets or exceeds the National
Appliance Energy Conservation Act
standards with respect to insulation
and standby loss requirements making
an insulation blanket unnecessary.
The manufacturer’s warranty does not
cover any damage or defect caused by
installation, attachment or use of
any type of energy saving or other
unapproved devices (other than those
authorized by the manufacturer) into,
onto or in conjunction with the water
heater. The use of unauthorized energy
saving devices may shorten the life of the
water heater and may endanger life and
property.
The manufacturer disclaims any
responsibility for such loss or injury
resulting from the use of such
unauthorized devices.
CAUTION: If local codes require the
application of an external insulation
blanket to this water heater, pay careful
attention to the following so as not to
restrict the proper function and
operation of the water heater:
●Do not cover the temperature and
pressure relief valve.
●Do not cover jacket access panels to
thermostats and heating elements.
●Do not cover the electrical junction
box of the water heater.
●Do not cover the operating or warning
labels attached to the water heater or
attempt to relocate them on the
exterior of insulation blanket.
!
Hot and Cold Pipe Insulation Installation
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.
WARNING: If local
codes require external
application of insulation
blanket kits the
manufacturer’s instructions
included with the kit must
be carefully followed.
!
R
E
L
I
E
F
V
A
L
V
E
COLD
HOT
Typical vertical piping
arrangement
R
E
L
I
E
F
V
A
L
V
E
COLD
HOT
Typical horizontal piping
arrangement
Typical side piping
arrangement
Safety Instructions Installation Instructions Operating Instructions Care and Cleaning Troubleshooting Tips Customer Service

10
Customer Service Troubleshooting Tips Care and Cleaning Operating Instructions Installation Instructions Safety Instructions
Installing the water heater.
For increased energy efficiency, some
water heaters have been supplied with
a 2-3/8” section of pipe insulation.
Please install the insulation, according
to the illustrations above, that best
meets your requirements.
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.
R
E
L
I
E
F
V
A
L
V
E
COLD
HOT
Typical top connection arrangement Typical side connection arrangement
Relief Valve Insulation Installation
CAUTION: Ensure the
T&P Valve opening is not
obstructed by the
insulation.
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.