GE Appliances GEH5ODNSRSA Operating instructions

GEAppliances.com
C3
U3
rY
U
U
mIii
Safety Information ........... 2,s
Operating Instructions ..... 4-11
Care and Cleaning ......... 12,13
Installation Instructions...14-1s
Troubleshooting Tips ...... 19,20
Consumer Support ......... 22,68
GEH5ODNSRSA
GEH5ODXSRGA
Chauffe-eau
r_sidentiel hgbride _lectrique
La section franqaise commence a la page 23
Calentadores
de agua
residenciales el_ctricos hibridos
La secci6n en espa_ol empieza en la p_gina 45
Write the model and serial
numbers here:
Model #
Serial #
Youcan find them on the rating label
on the front sideof your water heater.
49-50254 10-09 JR

I
m.
I
"(3
L_
0
t_
0
0
a_
..(3
5...
E
0
t_
IMPORTANTSAFETYINFORMATION.
READALL INSTRUCTIONSBEFOREUSING.
AWARNING!
For your safety, the information in this manual must befollowed to minimize the risk of fire or explosion,electric shock, or to
prevent property damage, personal injury, or lossof life.
Be sureto read and understand the entire Owner's Manual before attempting to install or operate this water heater.It may
save you time and cost. Pay particular attention to the Safety Instructions. Failureto 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,
STOPand get help from a qualified servicetechnician or the local electric utility.
WATER TEMPERATURE ADJUSTMENT
Safety and energy conservation are factors to be considered when selecting the water temperature setting via the water
heater's user interface. Water temperatures above 125°Fcan cause severe burns or death from scalding. Besure to read and
follow the warnings outlined on the label pictured below.This label isalso located on the water heater near the top of the tank.
HOT
Water temperature over 125°F can
cause severe burns instantly or
death from scalds.
The electronic temperature control
setting usually approximates tap
water temperature. However,
factors could cause water
temperature to reach 180°F
regardless of the control setting.
Always feel water before bathing
and showering.
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.
Mixingvalvesfor reducing point-of-use water temperature by
mixing hotand coldwater in branch water linesare available.
Contact a licensedplumberor the local plumbingauthority for
further information.
Time/Temperature Relationship in Scalds
120°F
125°F
130°F
135°F
140°F
145°F
150°F
155°F
TablecourtesyofShrinersBUm Institute
More thon 5 minutes
1-1/2 to 2 minutes
About 30 seconds
About 10 seconds
Less thon 5 seconds
Less thon 3 seconds
About 1-1/2 seconds
About i second
Thechart shown above may be usedas a guide in determining
the proper water temperature for your home.
NOTE:Households with small children, disabled or elderlg
persons mag require a 120°For lower thermostat setting
to prevent contact with "HOT"water.
ADANGER: ThereisaHotWaterSCALDPotential
if thecontrolwater temperature is set too high.
2SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS

GEAppliances.com
WARNING!
Gasoline, as well as other flammable materials
and liquids (adhesives, solvents, etc.), and the
vapors theg produce are extremelg dangerous.
DONOT handle, use or store gasoline or other
flammable or combustible materials angwhere
near or in the vicinitg of a water heater. The arc
drawn in the water heater controls can ignite
these vapors. Failure to do so can result in
propertg damage, bodilg injurg or death.
_, FOR INSTALLATIONS
IN THE STATEOF 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, CA95814 or gou mag call
916.324.5315 or ask a water heater dealer.
However, applicable local codes shall govern
installation. For residential water heaters of a
capacitg greater than 52 gallons, consult the local
building jurisdiction for acceptable bracing
procedures.
California Proposition 65 Warning: This product
contains chemicals known to the State of
California to cause cancer, birth defects or other
reproductive harm.
READAND FOLLOWTHISSAFETYINFORMATIONCAREFULLY.
SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS

Operating the water heater.
A,_ WARNIN G: Hydrogen gas can be produced in a hot water system served by this water heater that has not been
usedfor a long period of time (generallytwo weeks or more).HYDROGENGASISEXTREMELYFLAP1P1ABLE!!Todissipatesuch gas
and to reduce riskof injury, it isrecommended that the hot water faucet be opened for several minutes at the kitchen sink
before usingany electrical appliance connected to the hot water system. Ifhydrogen ispresent,there will be an unusual sound
such asair escaping through the pipe asthe water beginsto flow. Do not smoke or usean open flame near the faucet at the
time it isopen.
Safety Precautions
A. Doturn off power to water heater if
it has been subjectedto overheating,
fire, flood or physical damage.
B.Do Not turn on water heater unless
it isfilled with water.
C.
D.
Do Not turn on water heater ifcold
water supply shut-off valve isclosed.
Do Not store or usegasoline or other
flammable vapors and liquids,such as
adhesivesor paint thinner,in the vicinity
of this or any other appliance. If such
flammables must be used,open doors
and windows for ventilation.
NOTE:Flammable vapors mag be drawn
bg air currents from surrounding areas to
the water heater.
E.If there isany difficulty in understanding
or following the Operating Instructions
or the Care and Cleaningsection, it is
recommended that a qualified person
or serviceman perform the work.
WARNING:
If the water heater has been
subjected to flood, fire, or phgsical
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.
Safetg Controls
Thewater heaterisequippedwith two
temperature-limitingcontrols(TCOs)that
are located abovethe heating elementin
contact with thetank surface.Iffor any
reasonthewater temperaturebecomes
excessivelyhigh,thetemperature-limiting
control (TCO)breaksthe powercircuitto
the heatingelement.Oncethe control
opens,itmust be resetmanually.Resetting
of thetemperature limiting controlsshould
bedone by a qualifiedservicetechnician.
CAUTION: Thecause
of the high temperature condition must
be investigated bg a qualified service
technician and corrective action must
be taken beforeplacing the water heater
in serviceagain.
To reset the temperature-limiting
control:
1.Turn off the power to the water
heater.
2. Remove the jacket access ponel(s)
and insulation.
The thermostat protective cover
should not be removed.
3. Press the red RESETbutton.
4. Replace the insulation and jocket
occess panel(s) before turning on
the power to the water heater.
/4

About the controls. GEApp,ionces.com
0
@
0
O
G
A
,q j,
Y
I I
0 ® •
. ._.AND_ __MENU_J-- NT
" "
_ACAT,ON_ _--STOP--_
k93A_Z) LC3,oA,_)
t-
0
Controls
Display
Lock
Pressond hold this button for 3 secondsto
lock or unlock the woter heoter touch button
controls. Green light isilluminoted when the
controls ore locked.
oFilter
@
0
The filter is dirtg ond requires cleoning when
the Redlight is illuminoted. Filter is Iocoted on
top of the woter heoter. Pressbutton to reset
filter olorm.
High Demand
Usethis button when extro hot water is
needed.This feoture increoses the speed thot
the woter isheoted using more electricitg.
Green light isilluminoted when feoture ison.
Vacation Or Awag
Usethis button during times of no water
usoge, such osvocotion for on extended
period of time. Feoture will reduce the energg
used during the obsence. Green light is
illuminoted when feoture is on.
0
@
O
@
Stop Cold Air
Usethis button to tempororily stop cold air
coming from the unit or to stop fon noise.
However,the unit will usemore electricitg,
sothis mode should generollg be used onlg
for short periods of time. Green light is
illuminoted when feoture ison.
Energg Menu
Chonge the woter heoter Operoting Modes
bg pressing this button. You con olso chonge
the temperoture displog from °Fto °Cond
view FAQs.
Power
Usethis button to activate or deactivate
all heating sources on this product.
NOTE:The user interface will still function
when the power button is off.
Arrow Pads
Usethe up, down, left and right arrows to
navigate through menus or to change the
water temperature.

Turning on the water heater.
The first time you press the power button and the
water heater is powered on, the screen will ask for
confirmation that the tank has been filled with
water. The tank must be full of water before the
heater isturned on to prevent damage.
The water heater warrantg does not cover damage
or failure resulting from operation with an emptg
or partiallg emptg tank. (Referto the Certificate of
Limited Warrantg for complete terms and
conditions.)
If the tank has NOTbeen filled, vent and fill tank
with water before pressing the POWERbutton
again.
• Hake sure the drain valve iscompletelg closed.
• Open the shut-off valve in the cold water supplg
line.
• Open each hot water faucet slowlg to allow the
air to vent from the water heater and piping.
• A steadg flow of water from the hot water
faucet(s) indicates a full water heater.
After the tank has been filled with water, pressthe
POWERbutton again.
A
V
o
q:r:D
O
Once the water heater has been powered on, the
main screen will be shown. The displag will show
the current water temperature setting and the
current operating mode for the water heater.
Tocomplg with safetg regulations, the controls are
factorg preset to 120°F and Hgbrid Mode.These are
the recommended settings for the water heater.
A
,I Y
o
O
(--H'GH--h
t2 'A"j
CAT,O.--h
_OR AWAY___
Ifthe displaggoesblank,pressang kegto reactivate
the displag.Togo back to the default (HOME)screen,
pressthe left arrow button untilthe default (HOME)
screenappears.
6

About the water temperature setting. GEAppliances.com
Thetemperature of the water inthe water heater
can be regulated by adjusting the temperature
setting up or down using arrow kegs on the control
panel.
Safety and energy conservation are factors
to be considered when selecting the water
temperature setting of the water heater. The lower
the temperature setting, the greater the savings
in energy and operating costs.
Tocomply with safety regulations, the water
temperature isfactory set at 120°Fwhere local
codes require. This isthe recommended starting
point.
Water temperatures above 125°Fcan cause severe
burns or death from scalding. Besure to read and
follow the warnings outlined in this manual and on
the label on the water heater. This label is located
on the water heater near the upper element access
panel.
Mixing valves for reducing point-of-use water
temperature by mixing hot and cold water in
branch water linesare available. Contact a licensed
plumber or the local plumbing authority for further
information.
The chart below may be used as a guide in
determining the proper water temperature for your
home.
DANGER: Thereisahotwaterscald
poten_al if thewater temperatureis set toohigh.
Householdswith small children,disabled,or elderly
persons may requirea 120°Forlowerthermostat
setting toprevent contactwith HOTwater.
Time/Temperature Relationship in Scalds
_i TimetOProduceoSeriousBurn )
120°F
125°F
130°F
135°F
140°F
145°F
150°F
155°F
TabEecourtesvofShrinersBurnh_stitute
More thon 5 minutes
1-1/2 to 2 minutes
About 30 seconds
About 10 seconds
Less than 5 seconds
Less than 3 seconds
About 1-1/2 seconds
About isecond
To Adjust the Temperature
Press the UP or DOWN arrow on the control panel
key pad, You will be asked to press the ENTERkey
to acknowledge that increasing temperature
increases scald risk.Then the temperature can
be increased or decreased by pressing the UPor
DOWN arrows. After the desired temperature
setting has been achieved, you can press ENTER
to accept or simply walk away. (After 3 seconds of
no key presses, the control will accept the new
temperature setting.)
DANGER:ThereisaHotWaterSCALD
Potentialif thewatertemperatureisset toohigh.
120°Fisthe recommended water temperature
setting, but it can be adjusted to any temperature
between 100°Fand 140°F.
T
• ® •
CL°:O /cX
MAND_ EN NT
. . _/
VA_._ATION _'_STO P_

Adjusting the water temperature and function mode.
This water heater defaults to the Hybrid operating
mode. The Hybrid mode isthe recommended
setting for this water heater, but can be changed
if desired. Available modes are listed below and
can be found under the ENERGYMENUbutton.
eHeat TM Mode
eHeatTM isthe most energy-efficient mode for this
water heater. It takes heat from the surrounding
air to heat the water. The time it takes to heat
the water is longer in this mode, so it may NOT
be sufficient if you have a high-demand situation
such as a large household or company.
Standard Electric Mode
This mode uses only the upper and lower heating
resistance elements to heat the water. The time it
takes to heat the water is less in this mode, but it
isthe LEASTenergy-efficient mode.
Hybrid Mode--RECOMMENDED MODE
Hybrid mode combines the energy efficiency of
eHeatTM with the recovery speed and power of the
Standard Electric mode, with normal water usage.
High Demand
This mode is only necessary if your household
has a higher-than-average water usage or the unit
isundersized for the household water demands.
Inthis mode, the unit will use the electric heating
elements only when the water demand ishigher
than normal. When using the heating elements,
the water temperature will recover at a faster
rate but it will take more energy to heat it. Unlike
Standard Electric mode, it will use the heating
elements only when needed.
Toaccess any of these modes:
r_l Pressthe ENERGYMENU button and then
press ENTER.
_] Select "Operating Modes" on the menu list and
press ENTER.
Select the desired operating mode by using
the UPand DOWN arrow buttons and then
press ENTERagain.
Tocancel end return to the main energy menu:
Press the LEFTarrow button.
General navigation of energy menu:
F_For more information on each mode, while the
mode is highlighted, press the RIGHTarrow
button to read a description.
1-_1Use the UP and DOWN arrow buttons to scroll
through the description screens.
r_use the LEFT arrow button to return to the
"Operating Modes" menu list.
8

About the feature buttons on the user interface. 6EAppliances.com
Vacation Or Away
This feature is used when you will be away from
the home for an extended period of time and hot
water is not needed. Inthis mode, the unit will
drop the water temperature down to 50°F and will
use the most efficient heating mode to conserve
energy while the heater is sitting idle.The unit will
automatically resume heating one day before
your return, so that hot water will be available.
For example if you will be gone 1/4days, press the
VACATIONORAWAYbutton, press the UParrow
button until the display reads 1/4days (the default
is 7 days) and press ENTER.The unit will drop
the water temperature down to 50°F for 13 days.
At the end of the 13th day, it will automatically
return to the previous operating mode and heat
the water to the original temperature setting.
The green light will be illuminated when this
feature is on.
Stop Cold Air
The Hybrid and eHeatTM modes save energy by
using heat from the air to heat the water. The
warm air is pulled through the system by fans
and isthen cooled. That cool air then moves out
the back of the heater.
You can temporarily stop the cold air and fan
noise coming from the unit by pressing the STOP
COLDAIR button.
To adjust the number of days this feature will be
on, simply use the UP and DOWN arrow buttons
and press ENTER(the default is3 days). The unit
will automatically return to the previous operating
mode after the number of days selected has
passed.
This mode should only be used on a temporary
basis because you do NOTget the energy savings
while in this mode.
The green light will be illuminated when this
feature is on.
High Demand (on some models)
This mode isonly necessary if your household
has a higher-than-average water usage or
the unit is undersized for the household water
demands.
Inthis mode, the unit will use the electric heating
elements only when the water demand ishigher
than normal. When using the heating elements,
the water temperature will recover at a faster rate
but it will take more energy to heat it.
Unlike Standard Electric mode, it will use the
heating elements only when needed.
The green light will be illuminated when this
feature ison.
Control Lock
The control pad can be locked out to prevent
accidental key presses.
Simply press and hold the LOCI( button for three
seconds. The display will show "controls are
locked" and the green light will be illuminated
when this feature has been activated. No other
key presses will be allowed when the controls are
locked.
To deactivate the lock, press and hold the LOCI(
pad for three seconds. The green light will fade
and the screen will go to the default display.

UsingtheEnerggMenu.
TheEnergyMenuisalsousedtochangethewaterheater
operatingmodes,to convertthetemperaturedisplayfrom
°Fto %,orto viewtheFAgs.Thereisalsoa Diagnostic
Menuthat isonlyaccessibleto a certifiedservice
technicianor plumberintheeventserviceisneeded.
Operating Modes
UsethisoptiontochangebetweeneHeatTM, Hybrid,
StandardElectricand HighDemandmodes(described
onpage8).
r_To accessany of these modes, pressthe ENERGY
MENUbutton and then pressENTER.
_] elect Operating Modes on the menu listand
pressENTER.
r_ Selectthe desiredoperating mode by using the UPor
DOWNarrow buttons and then pressing ENTERagain.
[_-] To cancel and return to the main Energy Menu, press
the LEFTarrow button.
r_To getmoreinformationoneachmode,whilethe
modeishighlighted,presstheRIGHTarrowbutton
to reada description.
B-] UsetheUPor DOWNarrowbuttonstoscrollthrough
thedescriptionscreens.
E]Use theLEFTarrowbuttonto returnto theOperating
Nodemenulist.
°Fand °CConversion
Thewatertemperaturedisplaywilldefaultto °F.Toshow
thetemperaturesin °C,presstheENERGYMENUbutton;
thenpressENTER.Thesesettingswillberemembered
andreturnedfollowinga poweroutage.
r_-] PresstheDOWNarrowbuttontogoto "Choose°F
and°C"and pressENTER.
o o
PressENTERto changefrom Fto C.Themainscreen
o
willthenbeshownwiththetemperaturein C.
r_To cancelandreturntothemainEnergyMenu,press
theLEFTarrowbutton.
NOTE:Tochangebackto°F,repeatSteps1and 2.
Frequently Asked Questions
Thismenuitemanswersbasicquestionson coldair,
thefilter,operatingmodesandnoise.Allofthisinformation
iscoveredinthisUseandCaremanual.Ifthismanualis
misplaced,youcanrefertothissectionfor answers.
r_-]Toaccessthe FAQs,presstheENERGYMENUbutton
andthenpressENTER.
_] PresstheDOWNarrowpadtogoto "FAQs"andthen
pressENTER.
Therearefourquestioncategories:
ColdAir:
Q:Whyistherecoldair?
A:Hybrid,eHeatTM andHighDemandmodessaveenergy
by usingheatfromtheairto heatthewaterandthereby
coolingthesurroundingair.Thisgivessizableenergy
savings.
Q:Howto stopcoldair?
A:PresstheSTOPCOLDAIRbuttononthekeypad.This
reducestheefficiencyofthe heater.Unitwillchange
backto previousmodeafternumberof daysselected.
Filter:
Q:Whyisthereafilter?
A:InHybridandeHeatTM theunitmovesairthroughthe
system.Thefilterprotectsthe unitfromdirt.Acleanair
filter improvesefficiency.
Q:Howto cleanthefilter?
A:Leavepoweronandremovefilterfromtopofunit.Filter
canbewipedcleanor rinsedwithwarmwater.Adirty
filterwillreducewaterheaterefficienc!!
Modes:
Q:WhatisHighDemand?
A:HighDemandcanbeusedwhenhotwater usageis
higherthannormal.Theunitwillbelessefficientbutwill
heatwaterfasterinresponseto longwaterdraws.Forall
normaldraws,theunitwillstilluseefficienteHeatTM.
Q:WhatisStopColdAir?
A:Thismodewillstopcoldairtemporarilybutreduces
theefficiencyoftheheater.Theunitwillchangeback
to thepreviousmodeafterthenumberofdaysselected.
Q:WhatisVacationOrAway?
A:Ifyouaregoneforanextendedperiod,thismode
lowersthewatertemperaturetoreduceenergyused.
Unitwillswitchtothepreviousmodeonedaybefore
yougetback.
Q:WhatiseHeatZM?
A:eHeatTM isthemost-efficientmode.Ittakesheatfrom
theairto heatwater,therebycoolingthesurroundingair.
Slowerrecoverybutmost-efficientmode.
Q:WhatisHybrid?
A:TheHybridmodecombinesbenefitsofeHeatTM withthe
speedandpowerof StandardElectric.Thisprovidesgreat
performancewithlessenergy.(Recommendedmode.)
Q:WhatisStandardElectric?
A:StandardElectricmodeusesonlytheresistanceheaters
to heatthewater.Thisgivesfasterhotwaterrecovery
than Hybridmode,butusesmoreenergy.
Noise:
Q:Whyistheunitnoisy?
A:Inthemostenergy-efficientmodes,eHeat TM, Hybrid
andHighDemand,themethodusedto heatthewater
generatessomenoise.Someamountoffan noiseis
normal.
I_1 Usethe UPorDOWNarrowbuttonsto selectthe
categorythat pertainsto yourquestionand press
ENTER.
I_-I TocancelandreturntothemainEnergyMenu,press
theLEFTarrowbutton.
I_1 Oncethecategoryisselected,usethe UPor DOWN
arrowbuttonstoselectthedesiredquestionsand
pressENTER.
B-] Usethe UPorDOWNarrowbuttonsto readthrough
theinformationscreens.
E] Whendone,presstheLEFTarrowbuttontoreturn
totheFAQsmenu.
10

Demand Response. (onsome models) GEAppliances.com
The Hybrid Electric heat pump water heater is compatible
with the GEDemand Response (DR)module which can be
purchased separately. Contact your local utility or visit
www.GEApplionces.com/demond_response to
see if your area is using DRtechnology.
The followingdemand responsefeaturesareavailable
as part of a pilot test program with the local utility
company to help consumers reduce peak electricity
usage in the home.
INSTALLATION
The DR module is equipped with magnets in the base
of the module that will enable it to be attached to the
painted metal exterior of the heat pump water heater.
Details on how to connect the cables to the module are
in the instructions that come with the module.
DR connector
DR module
Once the cable from the DR module is plugged into the
water heater's connection, follow the power-up directions
included with the DRmodule. As soon as the DRmodule is
operating, the heat pump water heater is ready to receive
the DRsignals.
QUICK GUIDE
If your local utility company is utilizing DRtechnology,
the DRmodule will receive the signals sent from your
utility company. One of four signals will be sent: "Low"
represents that the lowest energy cost rate isavailable,
"Medium" and "High" signals represent increasing energy
cost steps, and the Critical signal represents "peak rate"
energy. A heat pump water heater equipped with a DR
module will automatically recognize what energy cost rate
is available and adjust its mode and temperature setting
to use less energy when rates are medium, high and
critical.
When the signal is low or when no DRmodule is
connected, the unit runs as normal. The following steps
show how the unit reacts to Medium, High and Critical
signal levels.
When the DRsignal is Medium, the control will operate in
eHeatTM Mode and the water temperature will remain at
the current user setting. The screen will display the
following (where xxx isthe current user temperature
setting):
When the DRsignal is High, the control will operate in
eHeatTM mode, with a water temperature setting of 110°F,
and the screen will display:
When the DRsignal is Critical, the control will operate in
eHeatTM mode, with a water temperature setting of IO0°F,
and the screen will display:
11

Careand cleaning of the water heater.
Routine Preventive Maintenance
^DANGER: Beforemanuallyoperating
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 ascald hazard.
The water should be released into a suitable
drain to prevent injury or property damage.
NOTE: If the temperature and pressure-relief
valve on the hot water heater discharges
periodically, this mag be due to thermal expansion
in a closed water sgstem. Contact the water
supplier or gour plumbing contractor on how to
correct this. Do not plug the relief valve outlet.
Properlymaintained, your water heater will provide
years of dependable trouble-free service.
It issuggestedthat aroutine preventivemaintenance
program be establishedand followed by the user.
Periodic Inspection:
It isfurther recommended that aperiodic inspection
of the operating controls, heating elementsand
wiring should be made by servicepersonnel
qualified in electric appliance repair.
Host electrical appliances,evenwhen new,make
some sound when in operation. If the hissing or
singing sound levelincreasesexcessively,the electric
heating element may require cleaning. Contact a
qualified installer or plumber for inspection.
Temperature and Pressure-Relief Valve:
At least once a year, lift and releasethe lever handle
on the temperature and pressure-reliefvalve,located
on the back-right sideof the water heater,to make
certain the valve operates freely.Allow several
gallonsto flush through the discharge lineto an
open drain.
Flushing Tank:
A water heater's tank can act asa settling basin
for solids suspended in the water. It istherefore not
uncommon for hard water depositsto accumulate
in the bottom of the tank. Tocleanthe tank of these
deposits,open the drain valve located under the large
decorative cover near the bottom of the unit and
drain a few quarts of water from the water heater
every month.
Draining the Water Heater
CAUTION: Shut off powerto the
water heater before draining water.
DANGER:Beforemanuallyoperating
the relief valve, make certain no one will be exposed
to the hot water released by the valve. Thewater
drained from the tank mag behot enough to
present ascald hazard and should be directed
to a suitable drain to prevent injury or damage.
Attach a garden hose to the drain valve located
at the bottom of the unit and direct that hose
to a drain. The decorative front cover must be
removed to access the valve.
In order to drain the water heater completely, turn
off the cold water supply. Open a hot water faucet
or lift the handle on the relief valve to admit air to
the tank.
Open the drain valve.
Decorative
cover :> Useaflat
crewdr ver
to turn
valve.
12
Vacation and Extended Shutdown
If the water heater is to remain idle for an extended
period of time, the power and water to the
appliance should be turned off to conserve energy
and prevent a buildup of dangerous hydrogen
gas,
The water heater and piping should be drained if
they might be subjected to freezing temperatures.
After a longshutdown period, the water heater's
operation and controls should be checked by
qualified service personnel. Hake certain the
water heater is completely filled again before
placing it in operation.
NOTE:Refer to the Hydrogen Gas Caution
in the Operating Instructions.

GEAppliances.com
Cleaning the Filter
Inthe Hybrid, eHeatTM and High Demand modes,
the heater moves air through the system and out
the back of the unit. Thefilter is in placeto protect
the evaporator from dirt and dust.
A clean air filter isimportant to get the highest
efficiency. Occasionally this filter will need to be
cleaned (minimum isoncea year).When the filter
requirescleaning, the Redlight above the Filter
button will be illuminated and an audible beep will
sound.Thescreen will display instructions that the
filter needsto be cleaned. When this screen is
displayed, you can pressthe RIGHTarrow button for
instructions on how to clean the filter.
NOTE:If the filter gets too dirty, the unit will
automatically switch to Standard Electricmode
and energy savingswill be lost.
Leavethe power on and remove the filter from
the top of the unit. It is located in the top of the unit
behind the hot and cold inlet pipes.Graspthe plastic
handle and slidethe filter straight up until it clears
the cover.Once it has been removed,the filter can
be wiped cleanwith a damp rag or rinsedwith
warm water.
Oncethe filter has beencleaned, it can be replaced
by aligning it intothe slot in the top of the unit and
sliding itdown into place.When the handle isflush
with the top of the cover,it isseated.
When the clean filter has been reinstalled,press
the FILTERbutton and then pressENTER.
IMPORTANT:Filter must be cleaned when the alarm
isdisplayed.A dirty filter will make the system work
harder and result in a reduction of efficiency and
possibledamage to the system. Inorder to get the
best energy efficiency available, make sure your filter
isclean.
Clearing the Condensation Drain Tubes
Thereare two drain hosesthat are attached to
the back of the heater. If both of these get clogged,
water will spilldown the outside of the unit.
Theprimary drain isintended to carry all condensate
away. If it isclogged or ifthe hoseis kinked,the
condensate will exit the secondary drain tube
and onto the floor.This isintended as a notification
to the userthat the primary drain isclogged. Remove
the drain hose,clear any debrisand reattach.
3" tube (overflow)
Periodicallyinspect the drain linesand clear any
debris that may have collected in the lines.
SeeInstallation Instructions for more information.
-- Main draintube
Directthemaindrain
tubeinto a drain
13

Installation
Instructions Water Heater
Models GEHSODNSRSA and GEHSODXSRGA
IThe location chosen for the water heater must take
into consideration the following:
LOCAL INSTALLATION REGULATIONS
This water heater must be installed in accordance with
these instructions, local codes, utility codes, utility
company requirements or,in the absence of local codes,
the latest edition of the National Electrical Code. It is
available from some local libraries or can be purchased
from the National FirePrevention Association,
Batterymarch park, Quincy, HA 02169 as booklet
ANSI/NFPA70.
POWER REQUIREMENTS
Check the markings on the rating plate of the water
heater to be certain the power supply corresponds to
the water heater requirements.
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.
NOTE:Because this unit draws in air from the room to
heat the water, the room must be at least 10' x 10' x 7'
(700 cubic feet) or larger. If the room issmaller, there
must be a Iouvered door.
Placethe water heater in such a manner that the air
filter, cover and front panels can be removed to permit
inspection and servicing, such as removal of elements
or cleaning of the filter.
The water heater and water lines should be protected
from freezing temperatures and high-corrosive
atmospheres. 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 asuitable
catch pan, adequately drained, be installed under the
water heater.
I
14
LOCATION (CONT.)
WAR NING:ThiswaterheaterSHOULDNOT
beinstalledin aspacewhereliquidswhichgiveoffflammable
vaporsaretobeusedor stored.Suchliquidsincludegasoline,
LPgas(butaneandpropane),paintor adhesivesandtheir
thinners, solvents or removers. Because of natural air
movementina roomor otherenclosedspace,flammable
vaporscan becarriedfrom wheretheirliquidsarebeingused
or stored.Thearcdrawnwithinthewaterheater'scontrol can
ignitethesevaporscausinganexplosionorfire whichmay
resultin severeburns or deathtothoseinrange, aswellas
property damage.
NOTE:Auxiliarycatch pan MUSTconformto localcodes.
CatchPanKitsare availablefrom the store wherethe water
heaterwas purchased,a builder storeor any water heater
distributor.
Routeto opendrain.
Lineshouldbeat least
3/4" IDandpitchedfor
properdrainage.
A--Diameter of water
heaterplus2"min.
B--Maximum 2"
Required clearances:
Theremustbe a 7" clearancerecommended(airspace),with a
5-1/2" minimumclearancebetweenany object andthe front
and rear coversin theevent serviceisneeded.
A14"minimumclearanceisrequiredto removethe
filter for cleaning.Thehot and coldwater plumbing
and electricalconnectionsmust notinterfere with
the removalofthe filter.
Condensation drain
Theunit hasa condensatedrain;therefore a drain must be
availablein closeproximity to the unit. Thedrain must be no
higherthan 36" abovethe floor (laundrydrain isacceptable).
If no drain isavailable,then a commoncondensatepump with
a capacity no lessthan I gallon/hourmust be purchasedfrom
a localbuilderand supply store and installed.

Installation Instructions
THERMAL EXPANSION
AWARNI NG:The water heater should not
be installed in aspace where liquids which give off
flammable vapors are to be used or stored.
Determine if acheck valve existsin the inlet water line.
It may have been installed inthe cold water line as a
separate backflow preventer, or it may be part of a
pressure-reducing valve, water meter or water softener.
A check valve located in the cold water inlet line can
cause what isreferred to as a "closed water system."
A cold water inlet line with no check valve or backflow
prevention device isreferred to as an "open" water
system.
Aswater isheated, it expands in volume and creates an
increase in the pressure within the water system. This
action is referred to as "thermal expansion." Inan "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 (refer to the
illustration on right). The expansion tank isdesigned 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
additional information regarding this subject.
WATER SUPPLY CONNECTIONS
Referto the illustrationbelowfor suggestedtypical installation.
Theinstallationof unionsor flexiblecopperconnectors is
recommendedon the hot and coldwater connectionssothat
thewater heatermay beeasilydisconnectedforservicingif
necessary.TheHOTand COLDwater connectionsare clearly
marked and are 3/4" NPTon all models.
NOTE:Installa shut-off valve in the cold water line near the
water heater.Thiswill enable easierserviceor maintenance
of the unit later.
IMPORTANT: Do not apply heat to the HOT or COLD water
connections. If sweat connections are used, sweat tubing
to adapter before fitting the adapter to the cold water
connections on heater. Any heat applied to the hot or cold
water connection will permanently damage the dip tube.
TYPICAL INSTALLATION
Toelectrical Unionj Heat trap
distributionpanel 6" minimum
Union
Heattrap
6" minimum
Hotwater
outlet tofixtures
Temperatureand
pressure-reliefvalve
(shownin different
locationfor clarity)
Reliefvalve
dischargeline to
suitable opendrain
supply
Shut-offvalve
Thermalexpansion
tank(if required)
junction
box(useonly
copperconductors)
--Jacket accesspanel
panel
---i- Auxiliary
:_ catchpan2"
_._J__ maximum
Drainvalve
CONDENSATION DRAIN TUBES
Thisunit hasa condensationtray. Thewater collectedinthe
tray drainsout ofthe tubecoming off the back ofthe unit.
Two flexiblehosesare includedwith this unit. Itisimportant
that bothof these hosesare attachedto thetwo drain ports
coming off the back ofthe unit.Attach one end ofthe longer
6' hoseto thelower drain porton the back ofthe unit,
underneaththe rearcover.Directthe
other endto a drain in thefloor or no s" hose
higherthan 3'abovethefloor.Ifsuch
drain isunavailable,a condensate
drain pump (notprovided)must be
purchasedand installed.Attachthe 6' hose
shorter3" hoseto thetop drain port.
15

Installation Instructions
A new combination temperature and pressure-reliefvalve,
complging with the Standardfor ReliefValvesand
Automatic GasShut-Off Devicesfor Hot Water Supplg
Sgstems,ANSIZ21.22,issupplied and must remain installed
in the opening providedand marked for the purpose on the
water heater.Novalve of ang tgpe should be installed
between the reliefvalve and the tank. Localcodes shall
govern the installation of reliefvalves.
RELIEF VALVE
AWARNING:Thepressurerating oftherelief
valve must not exceed 150 PSI,the meximum working
pressure of the weter heeter es merked on the rating
plete.
TheBTUH rating of the reliefvalve must not be lessthan the
input rating of the water heater as indicated on the rating
label located on the front of the heater (1watt=3.412 BTUH).
Connectthe outlet of the reliefvalve to a suitable open drain
sothat the discharge water cannot contact liveelectrical
parts or persons and to eliminate potential water damage.
Pipingusedshould be of a tgpe approved for hot water
distribution. Thedischarge linemust be no smaller than the
outlet of the valve and must pitch downward from the valve
to allow complete drainage (bg gravitg) of the reliefvalve
and discharge line.Theend of the discharge line should not
be threaded or concealed and should be protected from
freezing.Novalve of ang tgpe, restriction or reducer
coupling should be installed in the discharge line.
kCAUTION:
To reduce the risk of excessive pressures and
temperatures in this water heater, install temperature
and pressure protective equipment required bg local
codes and no less than a combination temperature and
pressure relief valve certified bg a nationallg recognized
testing laboratorg that maintains periodic inspection of
production of listed equipment or materials, as meeting
the requirements for ReliefValves and Automatic Gas
Shutoff Devices for Hot Water Supplg Sgstems, ANSI
Z21.22.This valve must be marked with a maximum set
pressure not to exceed the marked maximum working
pressure of the water heater. Install the valve into an
opening provided and marked for this purpose in the
water heater, and orient it or provide tubing so that ang
discharge from the valve exits onlg within 6 inches above,
or at ang distance below, the structural floor, and does
not contact ang live electrical part. The discharge
opening must not be blocked or reduced in size under
ang circumstances.
16
TO FILL THE WATER HEATER
A WARNING:Thetankmustbefullofwater
beforeheeter isturned on.The water heeter werrentg
doesnot coverdamage or failure resultingfrom
operationwith an emptg or partiallg emptg tank.
Make certain the drain valve is completelg closed,
Open the shut-off valve in the cold water supplg line.
Open each hot water faucet slowlg to allow the air to
vent from the water heater and piping.
A steadg flow of water from the hot water faucet(s)
indicates a full water heater.
ELECTRICAL CONNECTIONS
Aseparate branchcircuitwith copperconductors,overcurrent
protectivedeviceand suitabledisconnectingmeans mustbe
providedbg a qualifiedelectrician.
Allwiringmust conform to localcodesor latesteditionof
National ElectricalCodeANSI/NFPA70.
Thewater heateriscompletelgwiredto thejunction boxat the
top ofthe water heater.An openingfor 1/2"or 3/4"electrical
fittingis providedforfieldwiring connections.
Thevoltage requirementsand wattage load forthe water
heaterare specifiedonthe ratinglabelon thefront ofthe
water heater.
The branch circuit wiring should include either:
1. Metallic conduit or metallic sheathed cable approved
for use as a grounding conductor and installed with
fittings approved for the purpose.
2. Nonmetallic 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. ,]unctionboxcover
Groundscrew
Wire connectors
L1
Waterheaterjunction box
^_ WARNING:Proper ground connection is
essential. The presence of water in the piping and water
heater does not provide sufficientconduction for a
ground. Nonmetallic piping, dielectric unions, flexible
connectors, etc., can cause the water heater to be
electricallg isolated.

Installation Instructions
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.
If local codes require external application of insulation
blanket kits, the manufacturer's instructions included
with the kit must be carefully followed.
Application of any external insulation, blankets or
water pipe insulation to this water heater will require
careful attention to the following:
• Do not cover the temperature and pressure-relief
valve,
• Do not cover access panels to the 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 the insulation blanket.
• Do not block the air inlet outlets below and in the top
covers.
•Typicalvertical
p_p_ngarrangement Typicalhorizontalpiping arrangement
NOTE:This guide recommends minimum branch
circuit sizing based on the National Electric Code.
Refer to wiring diagrams in this manual for field
wiring connections.
BRANCH CIRCUIT SIZING GUIDE
I TotalWater Recommended _r-current Protection
Heater Wattage (fuse or c rcu t breaker amperage rat ng)
3,000
4,000
4,500
5,000
5,500
6,000
8,000
9,000
10,000
11,000
12,000
208V 240V 277V 480V
20 20 15 15
25 25 20 15
30 25 25 15
30 30 25 15
35 30 25 15
40 35 30 20
50 45 40 25
- 50 45 25
- 50 30
- 50 30
- - 35
I Total Water
Heater Wattage
3,000
4,000
4,500
5,000
5,500
6,000
8,000
9,000
10,000
11,000
12,000
icopper wire Size AWG B2ed
on N.E.C, Tabe31_16(75 C,)
208V 240V 277V 480V
12 12 14 14
10 10 12 14
10 10 10 14
10 10 10 14
8 10 10 14
8 8 10 12
8 8 8 10
8 8 10
- 8 10
- 8 10
-- -- 8
17

Installation Instructions
INSTALLATION CHECKLIST
[] 1.Tank location:
- Is room size less than 10' x 10' x 7' (700 cu. ft.)? If yes, Iouvered door or similar ventilation is needed.
- Back of unit away from wall by 7 inches.
- Front of unit isfree and clear.
- Isthe water heater level? If no, add shims under the base of the unit.
[] 2. Plumbing connections:
- Does not prevent air filter removal.
- No leaks after filling the tank with water, either when water is flowing or not.
[] 3. Condensate lines are in place:
1)Short tube on upper drain nozzle.
2) Longer tube on lower drain nozzle and directed into o floor drain or a condensate pump.
[] 4. Temperature and pressure-relief valve isworking and drain line completed per local code.
[] 5. Electrical connection does not prevent air filter removal.
[] 6. Verify control panel displays 120°F Hybrid mode.
[] 7. Front cover is in place.
18

Beforeyou call for service... GEAppliances.com
Troubleshooting Tips
Save time and moneg! Review the chart below first and gou
may not need to call for service.
b_ Possible Causes
Water heater is noisg Fans are used to move air
What To Do
• Some amount of fan noise is normal (similar to the blower
on a central heating and cooling system). If you hear an
abnormal noise like a knocking or the noise level seems
unusuallu loud, then contact service.
• If noise level has been increasing over the last weeks or
months, the filter may be getting dirty, thus making the
fans work harder. Check to see if filter needs to be cleaned.
(Seepage 13 for instructions.)
Water heater is Room is not vented • Ifthe room issmaller than 10' x 10' x 7',then it must have
making the room properlg or is too small, a Iouvered door or other means to allow air exchange
too cold with surrounding rooms.
Water dripping down Condensate drain hoses are • Two drain hoses are included with your water heater.
the outside of'the not connected. Connect the longer 6' hose to the lower condensate drain
heater port. Connect the short 3" hose to the upper condensate
drain port.
Condensate drain hoses are • Remove each drain hose and clear any debris from the
kinked or clogged, line. You can use a small wire like a hanger or a small
screwdriver to clear out any debris in the drain port on
the unit.
Hot/Cold water connections • Tighten the inlet and outlet pipe connections.
are not tightened.
Not enough or no hot Water usage mag have • Wait for the water heater to recover after an abnormal
water exceeded the capacitg demand.
of the water heater.
A fuse is blown or a circuit • Replacefuse or reset circuit breaker.
breaker tripped.
Electric supplg mag be off. • Hake sure electric supply to water heater and disconnect
switch, if used, ore in the ON position.
Water temperature mag • See the Water temperature setting section.
be set too low.
Leaking or open hot water • Hake sure all faucets ore closed.
faucets.
Electric service to gour home • Contact the local electric utility.
mag be interrupted.
Improper wiring. • See the Installation Instructions section.
Manual reset limit (TCO). • See the Water temperature setting section.
Cold water inlet temperature • This is normal. The colder inlet water takes longer to heat.
mag be colder during the
winter months.
Water is too hot Water temperature isset • See the Water temperature setting section.
too high.
-4,CAUTION: Foryoursafety,oONOTattemptrepairofelectricalwiring, controls,
heating elements or other safety devices. Refer repairs to qualified service personnel.
through the sgstem. The fan
noise volume will varg as the
water is heated.
Electronic control hasfailed. • Call for service.
Rumbling noise Water conditions in gour • Remove and clean the heating elements.
home caused a buildup of
scale or mineral deposits
on the heating elements.
19

Before you call for service...
_ir_i:i i::i:_:i_ii!i Possible causes
Relief valve producing
popping noise
or draining
The heater is beeping
and the screen sags
"Attention! Tank not
filled!"
The filter light is on.
The heater is beepin:
and the screen sags
"Heat Pump Failure"
Pressure buildup caused
bg thermal expansion
to a closed sgstem.
The water heater has not •
been filled with water before
powering up. Powering up the
heater without water will
damage the electric heaters.
The water heater warrantg
does not cover damage or
failure resulting from operation
with an emptg or partially
emptg tank.
The filter requires cleaning. •
A clean filter is necessary for
effective operation.
There is an issue with the •
heat pump system.
The heater is beepinc There isan issue with the
and the screen sags water heater sgstem.
"Water Heater Failure"
What To Do
• 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.
Fillthe tank completely with water. PressENTERto stop
the alarm and then press POWERwhen the tank has been
filled.
Follow the instructions on how to remove and clean the
filter on page 13.
The unit will automaticallu switch to another available
mode to ensure you continue to have hot water. Contact
service immediately and give them the codes listed on the
display screen.
The unit will automatically switch to another available
mode to ensure you continue to have hot water. Contact
service immediately and give them the codes listed on the
display screen.
Theheater isbeeping
and the screen sags
"Sgstem Failure"
There isan issuewith the
water heater that requires
immediate attention.
• The heater will need to turn off. Contact service immediately.
Unit is not making
noise If unit isusing resistance
elements, it will not make
noise.
Check mode of unit.
20