Rheem 120 Volt User manual

Water Heaters
Electric Point of Use
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 troubleshooting of the water heater.
This manual also 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 they may
understand how to perform these operations. If you do not
understand these instructions or any terms within it, seek
professional advice.
Any questions regarding the operation, maintenance, service or
warranty of this water heater should be directed to the seller from
whom it was purchased. If additional information is required, refer to
the section on “If you need service.”
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.
!
!
2½ through 30 Gallon Capacity
120 and 240 Volt Models
®
LISTED
786H
AP10227-10 (11/03)
Printed in USA
Use & Care Manual
With Installation Instructions for the Installer
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
WARNING—When using electrical appliances, basic safety precautions to reduce the risk of fire, electric shock, or injury to persons
should be followed, including:
READ ALL INSTRUCTIONS BEFORE USING THIS
WATER HEATER.
The cord and plug connected water heater covered in this
manual (21/2gallon models) must be grounded. Connect
only to properly grounded outlet. See “Electrical
Connections” section on page 8.
Install or locate this water heater in accordance with the
provided installation instructions.
Use this water heater only for its intended use as
described in this manual.
As with any appliance, close supervision is necessary
when used by children.
Do Not use an extension cord set with this water heater. If
no receptacle is available adjacent to the water heater,
contact a qualified electrician to have one properly installed.
Do Not operate this water heater if it has a damaged cord
or plug, if it is not working properly, or if it has been
damaged or dropped.
This water heater should be serviced only by qualified
service personnel. Contact nearest authorized service
center for examination, repair or adjustment.
SAVE THESE
INSTRUCTIONS

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
Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Extended Shut-Down . . . . . 14
Troubleshooting Tips
Before You Call
For Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Customer Service
Parts List . . . . . . . . . . . . 16-18
If You Need Service . . . . . . 19
Wiring Diagram. . . . . . . . . 20
2
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 a great deal of 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.
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

Time/Temperature Relationship in Scalds
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. 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
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
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 Protection Association,
Batterymarch Park, Quincy, MA 02269 as
booklet ANSI/NFPA 70.
Location
This water heater is designed to meet a
wide range of applications. It fulfills a
demand for a small water heater that can be
installed in a limited space such as under
countertops, in cabinets or in a closet.
Locate the water heater in a clean dry area
as near as practical to hot water fixtures,
or close to the water faucet most
frequently used.
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.
Make certain the floor underneath the
water heater is strong enough to
sufficiently support the weight of the
water heater once it is filled with water.
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
A
To open drain, line
should be at least 3/4″ID
and pitched for proper
drainage.
5
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.

Installing the water heater.
Thermal Expansion
Water Supply Connections
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 softener.
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 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 the
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 additional information
regarding this subject.
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.
6
Refer to the illustrations on the following
page 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. Connect cold water supply line to
3/4” pipe connection near bottom of water
heater on the 6 gallon and 20 gallon models.
Install a shut-off valve and a drain valve
(not supplied with heater, except 2 1/2 gal.
models) in cold water line near water heater.
Connect hot water line to 3/4” pipe
connection marked HOT on side near top of
water heater. On the 2 1/2 gallon models,
the hot and cold water connections are 1/2”
pipe connections and are located on top of
the heater. Local codes may require an anti-
siphon device on the water inlet of a side
connect water heater.

Typical Installation
Recommended
heat trap
6″minimum
Hot water outlet
to fixtures
6″air gap
Suitable open drain
6″
Union
Temperature &
pressure relief
valve
Cold water supply
To cold water
supply
Shut-off valve
Relief
valve
discharge
line to
suitable
open
drain
Unions
*The drain valve is located below and to the right of jacket access panel and is
not visible in this view.
Anode
Jacket
access
panel Power supply
cord 21/2gal.
models only
Temperature &
pressure relief
valve
Opening
for 1/2″
or 3/4″
electrical
fitting
(use only copper
conductors)
Auxiliary catch pan
Relief
valve
discharge
line
Shut-off valve
Drain valve*
Jacket access
panel
Hot water
outlet
(to fixtures)
Auxiliary
catch pan
Auxiliary catch
pan drain line
Auxiliary catch pan drain
line
Suitable open drain
7
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.
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.
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 be 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.
Drain valve
(not supplied)
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.
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.

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.
Electrical Connections
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 plate on the front of the water heater.
21/2gallon models are supplied with a plug
connected power supply cord for use only
in 120 VAC applications. The cord must
be connected to a properly grounded
receptacle on a branch circuit with copper
conductors, an over current protection
device and a suitable disconnect means. If
desired, straight field wiring connections
can be made to these models by removing
the access cover on front of heater and
disconnecting the cord set from the
thermostat and the grounding plug. Remove
the cord set and strain relief bushing from
the junction bracket. The hole in the
junction bracket will accommodate 1/2″or
3/4″electrical fittings. Refer to wiring
diagrams in the back of this manual for
wiring connections.
6 through 30 gallon models are completely
wired to the junction bracket inside jacket
at front of water heater. An opening for
1/2″or 3/4″electrical fitting is provided
for field wiring connections. A separate
branch circuit with copper conductors,
overcurrent protective device and suitable
disconnecting means must be provided by
a qualified electrician. Refer to wiring
diagrams in the back of this manual for
wiring connections.
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.
8
Installing the water heater.
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.
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.
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 temperature.
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 1300 Series Section and
choose Bulletin #1303.

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.
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
Hot and Cold Pipe Insulation Installation
Typical side piping
arrangement
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:
zDo not cover the operating or warning
labels attached to the water heater or
attempt to relocate them on the exterior
of insulation blanket.
zDo not apply insulation to the top of the
water heater. this could interfere with
the safe operation of the electrical
junction box.
zDo not cover the jacket access panel(s)
to the thermostat(s) and heating
element(s), or pressure and temperature
relief valve.
zInspect the insulation blanket frequently.
WARNING: If local
codes require external
application of insulation
blanket kits the
manufacturer’s instructions
included with the kit must
be carefully followed.
Insulation Blankets
9

10
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 internal or external heat
traps in the hot outlet and cold water inlet
openings.
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.