GE GE04SNLPDG User manual

Write the model and serial
numbers here:
Model #_________________
Serial # _________________
You can find them on the rating
label on the front side of your
water heater.
GE is a trademark of the General Electric Company. Manufactured under trademark license.
OWNER’S MANUAL
WATER HEATERS
Instantaneous Electric
49-6000243 Rev. 0 01-21 GEA
GE Branded Electronic
GE04SNLPDG
GE06SNHPDG
GE08SNHPDG
GE11SNHPDG
GE15SNHPDG
GE18SNHPDG
GE24DNHPDG
GE27DNHPDG
SAFETY INFORMATION.......... 3
OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS .... 5
CARE AND CLEANING ........... 5
ABOUT THE CONTROL PANEL . 6
ABOUT REMOTE CONTROL ..... 8
INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS 9
TROUBLESHOOTING TIPS.......17
WIRING DIAGRAMS ..............17
LIMITED WARRANTY ............21
CONSUMER SUPPORT .......... 22
ESPAÑOL
Para consultar una version en
español de este manual de
instrucciones, visite nuestro sitio de
internet GEAppliances.com.

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49-6000243 Rev. 0
THANK YOU FOR MAKING GE APPLIANCES A PART OF YOUR HOME.
Whether you grew up with GE Appliances, or this is your first, we’re happy to have you in the family.
We take pride in the craftsmanship, innovation and design that goes into every GE Appliances
product, and we think you will too. Among other things, registration of your appliance ensures that we
can deliver important product information and warranty details when you need them.
Register your GE appliance now online. Helpful websites and phone numbers are available in the
Consumer Support section of this Owner’s Manual. You may also mail in the pre-printed registration
card included in the packing material.

49-6000243 Rev. 0
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READ AND SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS
IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION
READ ALL INSTRUCTIONS BEFORE USING THE APPLIANCE
SAFETY INFORMATION
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 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. 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.
CAUTION
Risk of Fire - Hydrogen gas can be produced in a hot water system served by this water heater that has
not been used for a long period of time (generally two weeks or more). HYDROGEN GAS IS EXTREMELY
FLAMMABLE!! To dissipate such gas and to reduce risk of injury, it is recommended that the hot water faucet be
opened for several minutes at the kitchen sink before using any electrical appliance connected to the hot water
system. If hydrogen is present, there will be an unusual sound such as air escaping through the pipe as the water
begins to flow. Do not smoke or use an open flame near the faucet at the time it is open.
WARNING
Risk of Fire - DO NOT store or use gasoline or other flammable vapors and liquids in the vicinity of this or
any other appliance. Keep rags and other combustibles away.
WARNING
If the water heater has been subjected to flood, fire, or physical damage, turn off power and water to the
water heater.
Do not operate the water heater again until it has been thoroughly checked by qualified service personnel.
Safety Precautions
A. Do turn off power to water heater if it has been subjected to overheating, fire, flood or physical damage.
B. If there is any difficulty in understanding or following the Operating Instructions or the Care and
Cleaning section, it is recommended that a qualified person or serviceman perform the work.
NOTE: Flammable vapors may be drawn by air currents from surrounding areas to the water heater.

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49-6000243 Rev. 0
SAFETY INFORMATION
READ AND SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS
IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION
READ ALL INSTRUCTIONS BEFORE USING THE APPLIANCE
Time/Temperature Relationship in Scalds
Temperature Time to Produce a Serious Burn
120°F (49°C) More than 5 minutes
125°F (52°C) 1-1/2 to 2 minutes
130°F (54°C) About 30 seconds
135°F (57°C) About 10 seconds
140°F (60°C) Less than 5 seconds
145°F (63°C) Less than 3 seconds
150°F (66°C) About 1-1/2 seconds
155°F (68°C) About 1 second
Table courtesy of Shriners Burn Institute
!
Water temperature over 125°F can
cause severe burns instantly or
death from scalds.
Temperature control settings
usually approximate tap water
temperature. However, factors
could cause water temperature
to reach 160°F regardless of the
control settings.
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.
The chart shown above may be used as a guide in determining
the proper water temperature for your home.
DANGER There is a Hot Water SCALD Potential if the
water temperature thermostat is set too high. Households
with small children, disabled or elderly persons may require
a 120°F (49°C) or lower thermostat setting to prevent contact
with “HOT” water.
Control has been set at the factory to 120°F (49°C) to reduce the
risk of scald injury. This is the recommended starting temperature
setting, but it can be adjusted to any temperature between 100°F
and 140°F (38°C and 60°C).
To Adjust the Temperature
Follow these steps:
1. Press the + or - buttons on the control panel key pad to desired
temperature.
2. Press ENTER to accept the new setting.
NOTE: To change between °F and °C, press and hold ENTER.
WATER TEMPERATURE ADJUSTMENT
Safety, energy conservation, and hot water capacity are factors
to be considered when selecting the water temperature setting
of the water heater. 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 to the left. This label is also
located on the water heater near the top of the tank.

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Operating Instructions
Care and Cleaning
Water Heater Capacity and Increasing Temperature
Setpoint (For Water Heaters without an Integrated
Mixing Valve):
The water heater temperature setting strongly impacts
the amount of usable hot water available for showers
and baths.
• Energy consumption/savings and efficiency testing of
water heaters is performed according to Department
of Energy (DOE) requirements specified at the date of
manufacture.
•Safety regulations require a factory setting no greater
than 125°F (52°C) for all new water heaters. Therefore,
if your old water heater was set to a hotter temperature
than your new water heater with a factory set setpoint of
120°F (49°C), the new water heater may seem to provide
lower capacity than your old water heater. This can be
corrected by increasing the temperature setpoint.
• Increasing the water temperature setpoint may improve
the cleaning performance of dishwashers and washing
machines.
• The user can adjust the temperature setting to meet
their needs. Always read and understand the safety
instructions contained in the owner’s manual before
adjusting the temperature setpoint.
Extended Shutdown Periods
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 and the water heater drained to
conserve energy and prevent a buildup of dangerous
hydrogen gas. This unit has no power button, power
can only be shut off at the circuit breaker or disconnect
switch.
The water heater and piping should be drained if they
might be subjected to freezing temperatures.
After a long shutdown period, the water heater’s
operation and controls should be checked by qualified
service personnel. Make certain that water is flowing to
water heater again before placing it in operation.
General Operation
This water heater does not store water like a
conventional tank style water heater. It uses a series
of flow rate and temperature sensors to heat water.
When you turn on the hot water faucet, this water heater
recognizes water demand and heats water to the set
point temperature to meet this demand. When the water
faucet is turned off, the water heater will also turn off.
Exterior Surfaces
Hand wash with damp cloth, using only warm water. Wipe dry using a dry, clean cloth.
DANGER Risk of Scalding
Before conducting any maintenance on plumbing
connection, make sure no one will be exposed to the
danger of coming in contact with the hot water. The
water may be hot enough to create a scald hazard. The
water should be released into a suitable drain to prevent
injury or property damage.
It is recommended to perform routine maintenance on
your water heater. Properly maintained, your water
heater will provide years of dependable trouble-free
service.
Inspect the inlet and outlet water connections on
an annual basis for any signs of damage or failure.
Look for any signs of leakage, damage, or cracks in
each connection. Make sure not to over tighten the
connections to avoid damage to internal connections of
the water heater.
CAUTION Risk of Shock - Shut off power
to the water heater before draining water.
Before conducting any maintenance on the water heater,
first shut off all power to the water heater directly at the
fuse or breaker box.
It is recommended to install the water heater with a
manual shut-off valve at the cold inlet plumbing location
to allow for easy maintenance and service.
When maintenance is performed on a home’s plumbing
system that may introduce air into the plumbing, it is
important to shut off all power to the water heater directly
at the fuse or breaker box. Failure to do so could cause
permanent damage to the water heater and void the
product warranty.
OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS / CARE AND CLEANING

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49-6000243 Rev. 0
About the Control Panel
Control Features
1. Display
2. + Select Button
Use these buttons to increase the temperature setting.
Single press changes temperature in 1 degree increments.
Press and hold to change temperature continuously.
3. - Select Button
Use these buttons to decrease the temperature setting.
Single press changes temperature in 1 degree increments.
Press and hold to change temperature continuously.
4. Enter Button
Use this button to confirm temperature setting following
adjustment.
Models: GE04SNLPDG, GE06SNHPDG, GE08SNHPDG, GE11SNHPDG,
GE15SNLPDG
Displaying Temperature Setpoint
The control will display the temperature setpoint anytime
a button on the control is pressed. After 30 seconds of
inactivity, the display will go blank. To wake the control
at any time to see the temperature setpoint, press the
ENTER button on the control.
Turning on the Water Heater
There is no power button for these models. Once the
water heater is wired and power is supplied, it will be
on. The display will show the current water temperature
setting. To comply with safety regulations, the controls
are factory preset to 120°F (49°C).
To Adjust the Temperature
Follow these steps:
1. Press the + or - button on the control panel key pad to
desired temperature.
2. Press ENTER to accept the new setting.
NOTE: To change between °F and °C, press and hold
the ENTER button for 3 seconds.
Important Note:
All controls on the interface of this water heater are
capacitive touch. This means activating the function only
requires light touch on button location. Significant push
force is not required.
ABOUT THE CONTROL PANEL

49-6000243 Rev. 0
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ABOUT THE CONTROL PANEL
About the Control Panel
Control Features
1. Display
2. + Select Button
Use these buttons to increase the temperature setting.
Single press changes temperature in 1 degree increments.
Press and hold to change temperature continuously.
3. - Select Button
Use these buttons to decrease the temperature setting.
Single press changes temperature in 1 degree increments.
Press and hold to change temperature continuously.
4. Power Button
Use this button to turn the power ON and OFF.
5. Enter Button
Use this button to confirm temperature setting following
adjustment.
Models: GE18SNHPDG, GE24DNHPDG, GE27DNHPDG
Displaying Temperature Setpoint
The control will display the temperature setpoint anytime
a button on the control is pressed. After 30 seconds of
inactivity, the display will go blank. To wake the control
at any time to see the temperature setpoint, press the
ENTER button on the control.
Turning on the Water Heater
There is a power button for these models. Once the
water heater is wired and power is supplied, press the
power button to turn water heater “ON”. The display will
show the current water temperature setting. To comply
with safety regulations, the controls are factory preset to
120°F (49°C).
To Adjust the Temperature
Follow these steps:
1. Press the + or - button on the control panel key pad to
desired temperature.
2. Press ENTER to accept the new setting.
NOTE: To change between °F and °C, press and hold
the ENTER button for 3 seconds.
Important Note:
All controls on the interface of this water heater are
capacitive touch. This means activating the function only
requires light touch on button location. Significant push
force is not required.

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49-6000243 Rev. 0
About the REMOTE CONTROL
ABOUT THE CONTROL PANEL
For Applicable Models
Operating the Remote Control
1. Display
2. + Select Button
Use these buttons to increase the temperature setting or
vacation days.
3. Enter Button
Use this button to confirm temperature setting following
adjustment.
Note: To change between °F and °C, press and hold the
ENTER button for 3 seconds.
4. - Select Button
Use these buttons to decrease the temperature setting
or vacation days.
Maintaining the Remote Control
Remove the back of the controller and insert two AAA
batteries. Replace batteries after 6 months of use or
when remote control starts to lose power.
DO NOT mix old and new batteries.

49-6000243 Rev. 0
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Installation Instructions
INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS
The 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 Fire Prevention
Association, Batterymarch park, Quincy, MA 02169 as
booklet ANSI/NFPA 70.
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. NOTE: 208V
installations may experience lower performance.
LOCATION
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.
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. Unit must be installed in a level location.
If required, add shims under base of unit to level for
proper operation.
NOTE: This unit is designed for any common indoor
installation.
Make sure the water heater and hot water outlet pipe
are out of the reach of children to avoid tampering with
the controls or burn themselves on hot water outlet
pipe.
Moving the water heater or other appliances to provide
service to the water heater is not covered under
warranty.
CAUTION Risk of Property Damage -
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.
LOCATION (Cont).
Avoid locations that are prone to dampness, high
humidity, moisture, or dust.
RECOMMENDED CLEARANCES:
There must be sufficient clearance between any
object and the top, rear and sides of the water
heater in the event service is needed. The controls
and plumbing connections at front of unit must have
clear access for operation and service.
Recommended Minimum Clearances:
12” above and below the water heater
6” in front and to both side of the water heater
CAUTION Flammable materials should be
kept at minimum 24” away from the water heater.
THERMAL EXPANSION
If a check valve is present on the inlet water line,
it will create a “closed system.” Heating water in
a closed system creates an increase in pressure
within the water system because the pressure is not
able to dissipate in the main supply line. Referred to
as “thermal expansion”, the rapid pressure increase
can cause the relief valve to operate (releasing
water) during each heating cycle, potentially causing
premature failure to the valve or even the water
heater. 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 as shown in the following illustrations. Contact
your installing contractor, water supplier, or plumbing
inspector for additional information.

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49-6000243 Rev. 0
Installation Instructions
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 voltage requirements and wattage load for the
water heater are specified on the rating label on the
front of the 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.
WARNING It is recommended for this
product to be installed by a licensed and qualified
electrician in accordance with all applicable
national, state, and local electrical codes.
Under no circumstances should you attempt to
install, repair, or disassemble the water heater
without first shutting off power directly at the fuse
or breaker box.
Before installing this product, make sure the
installation location has sufficient electrical power
available to handle the maximum amperage load
for the water heater.
WARNING Proper ground connection is
essential. The presence of water in the piping
and water heater does not provide sufficient
conduction for a ground. Nonmetallic piping,
dielectric unions, flexible connectors, etc., can
cause the water heater to be electrically isolated.
Do not disconnect factory ground.
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.
NOTE: do not cover the operating or warning labels attached
to the water heater or attempt to relocate them.
IMPORTANT NOTES:
The following models require a single dedicated circuit.
(One set of wire and ground)
GE04SNLPDG, GE06SNHPDG, GE08SNLPDG,
GE11SNHPDG, GE15SNHPDG
The following models require two dedicated circuits.
(Two sets or wire and ground).
GE18SNHPDG
The following models require three dedicated circuits
(Three sets of wire and ground)
GE24DNHPDG, GE27DNHPDG
ELECTRICAL SPECIFICATION GUIDE
NOTE: This guide recommends minimum branch circuit sizing and wire gauge based on the National
Electric Code.
Model Number Power (kW) Voltage Amps Recommended Breaker
Size
Recommended Wire Size
GE04SNLPDG 3.5 120 29 (1 x 30)A 10 AWG
GE06SNHPDG 5.5 240 23 (1 x 30)A 10 AWG
GE08SNHPDG 8.0 240 33 (1 x 40)A 8 AWG
GE11SNHPDG 11.0 240 46 (1 x 50)A 6 AWG
GE15SNHPDG 14.6 240 61 (1 x 70)A 4 AWG
GE18SNHPDG 18.0 240 75 (2 x 40)A 8 AWG
GE24DNHPDG 24.0 240 100 (3 x 40)A 8 AWG
GE27DNHPDG 27.0 240 113 (3 x 40)A 8 AWG
INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS