Rheem Double Element Residential Electric Models User manual

Water Heaters
Electric Residential
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!
!
!
Double Element Residential Electric Models
Printed in USA
Use & Care Manual
With Installation Instructions for the Installer
AP11058 Rev. 9 (11/03)

Safety Information
Safety Precautions . . . . . . . 3, 4
Installation Instructions
Location . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Water Connections . . . . . . . . 6
Electrical Connections . . . . . 8
Operating Instructions
Safety Controls . . . . . . . . . . 12
Water Temperature . . . . . . . 13
Care and Cleaning
Draining . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Extended Shut-Down . . . . . 14
Maintenance. . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Troubleshooting Tips
Before You Call
For Service. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Customer Service
Parts List . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
If You Need
Service Assistance . . . . . . . 18
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 cheque 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
49°C (120°F) More than 5 minutes
52°C (125°F) 11/2to 2 minutes
54°C (130°F) About 30 seconds
57°C (135°F) About 10 seconds
60°C (140°F) Less than 5 seconds
63°C (145°F) Less than 3 seconds
66°C (150°F) About 11/2seconds
68°C (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 49°C (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.
The thermostat(s) were set at 60°C (140°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
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TURN OFF
POWER
BEFORE
SERVICING
110
120
130140150
160
170
IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION.
READ ALL INSTRUCTIONS BEFORE USING.
3
Reset button
Thermostat
protective cover
(only on certain
models)
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 52°C (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.
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
authorities and codes, utility codes or
utility company requirements, which must
be followed and take precedent over any
recommendation in this manual.
Location
Locate the water heater in a clean dry area
as near as practical to the area of greatest
heated water demand. Long uninsulated hot
water lines can waste energy and water.
Place the water heater in such a manner
that the thermostat and element access
panels can be removed to permit
inspection and servicing such as removal
of elements or checking controls.
The water heater and water lines should be
protected from freezing temperatures. Do
not install the water heater in outdoor,
unprotected areas.
CAUTION: The water heater should not
be located in an area where leakage of the
tank or connections will result in damage to
the area adjacent to it or to lower floors of
the structure. Where such areas cannot be
avoided, it is recommended that a suitable
catch pan, adequately drained, be installed
under the water heater.
A—Diameter of water heater
plus 5 cm (2″) min.
B—Maximum 5 cm (2″)
NOTICE: Auxiliary catch pan MUST conform to local codes.
Catch Pan Kits are available from the store where the water heater
was purchased, or any water heater distributor.
B
ATo open drain, line should
be at least 1.9 cm (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.

6
Typical Installation
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To cold water supply*
Jacket access panel
Relief valve discharge line to
suitable open drain
Drain valve
Electrical junction box (inside jacket)
Hot water outlet
to fixtures
Anode Shut-off valve
Union
Temperature &
pressure relief valve
Thermal expansion tank
(if required)
Heat trap 15 cm (6″)
minimum
15 cm (6″) air gap
Heat trap 15 cm (6″)
minimum
Auxiliary catch pan
5 cm (2’) maximum
To electrical
distribution panel
Jacket access panel
Union
Installing the water heater.
Thermal Expansion
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 the pressure within
the water system. This action is referred to as “thermal expansion”. In an “open” water
system, expanding water which exceeds the capacity of the water heater flows back into
the city main where the pressure is easily dissipated.
A“closed water system”, however, prevents the expanding water from flowing back into the
main supply line, and the result of “thermal expansion” can create a rapid and dangerous
pressure increase in the water heater and system piping. This rapid pressure increase can
quickly reach the safety setting of the relief valve, causing it to operate during each heating
cycle. Thermal expansion, and the resulting rapid and repeated expansion and contraction of
components in the water heater and piping system can cause premature failure of the relief
valve, and possibly the heater itself. Replacing the relief valve will not correct the problem!
The suggested method of controlling thermal expansion is to install an expansion tank in the
cold water line between the water heater and the check valve (refer to the illustration below).
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.
Water Supply Connections
Refer to the illustration below for suggested typical installation. The installation of unions or
flexible copper connectors is recommended on the hot and cold water connections so that the
water heater may be easily disconnected for servicing if necessary. The HOT and COLD
water connections are clearly marked and are 3/4″NPT on all models. Install a shut-off valve
in the cold water line near the water heater.
To cold water supply*
* Some models are
constructed with a side
cold water inlet and will
not have an opening on
the top of the water
heater.

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Heat trap
15cm (6”) minimum
Union
To electrical
distribution panel Temperature
&
Pressure
Relief Valve
Anode
Union
Hot water outlet
to fixtures
Electrical junction box
(use only copper conductors)
WARNING: The pressure
rating of the relief valve must
not exceed 1 034 kPa (150 PSI),
the maximum working
pressure of the water heater as
marked on the rating plate.
A new combination temperature and pressure relief valve, complying with the Standard for Relief Valves and
Automatic Gas Shut-Off Devices for Hot Water Supply Systems, ANSI Z21.22/CSA 4.4 M99, 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.
Relief Valve
The BTU/h 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 BTU/h).
Connect the outlet of the relief valve
to a suitable open drain so that the
discharge water cannot contact live
electrical parts or persons and to eliminate
potential water damage.
Piping used should be of a type approved
for hot water distribution. The discharge
line must be no smaller than the outlet of
the valve and must pitch downward from
the valve to allow complete drainage (by
gravity) of the relief valve and discharge
line. The end of the discharge line should
not be threaded or concealed and should
be protected from freezing. No valve of
any type, restriction or reducer coupling
should be installed in the discharge line.
To Fill the Water Heater
WARNING: The tank must be full of
water before heater is turned on. The water
heater warranty does not cover damage or
failure resulting from operation with an
empty or partially empty tank.
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.
7
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.
Typical Installation (Alternate Construction)

8
Installing the water heater.
NOTICE: This guide recommends minimum branch circuit sizing and wire size. 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)
208V 240V 277V 480V 208V 240V 277V 480V
3,000 20 20 --- --- 12 12 --- ---
3,800 25 20 --- --- 10 12 --- ---
4,000 25 25 --- --- 10 10 --- ---
4,500 30 25 --- --- 10 10 --- ---
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
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
the latest edition of the Canadian
Electrical Code. Refer to wiring diagrams
in the back of this manual for wiring
connections.
The voltage requirements and wattage
load for the water heater are specified
on the rating plate on the front of the
water heater.
The water heater is completely wired
to the junction bracket inside the top
access panel on front of the water heater.
An opening for 1.2 cm (1/2”)
or 1.9 cm (3/4”) electrical fitting is
provided for field 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.
Water heater junction bracket.
Ground
screw
Wire connections
Junction
bracket
Conduit
connector
WARNING
WARNING
Wire connections
Junction
box cover
Conduit
connector
Water heater junction box (Alternate construction)
Ground
screw

For increased energy efficiency, some
water heaters have been supplied with
two 61cm (24”) sections of pipe
insulation.
Please install the insulation, according to
the illustrations above, that best meets
your requirements.
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COLD
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Typical vertical piping arrangement
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Typical horizontal piping arrangement
Hot and Cold Pipe Insulation Installation
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 CSA standards,
with respect to insulation and standby loss
requirements making an insulation blanket
unnecessary.
The manufacturer’s warranty does not
cover any damage or defect caused by
installation, attachment or use of
any type of energy saving or other
unapproved devices (other than those
authorized by the manufacturer) into, onto
or in conjunction with the water heater.
The use of unauthorized energy saving
devices may shorten the life of the water
heater and may endanger life and property.
The manufacturer disclaims any
responsibility for such loss or injury
resulting from the use of such
unauthorized devices.
CAUTION: If local codes require the
application of an external insulation
blanket to this water heater, pay careful
attention to the following so as not to
restrict the proper function and
operation of the water heater:
●Do not cover the 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 6cm (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.
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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 line 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.

11
Installation Checklist
A. Water Heater Location
B. Water Supply
C. Relief Valve
D. Wiring
❑Close to area of heated water demand.
❑Indoors and protected from freezing
temperatures.
❑Area free of flammable vapours.
❑Provisions made to protect area from water
damage.
❑Sufficient room to service heater.
❑Water heater completely filled with water.
❑Air purged from water heater and piping.
❑Water connections tight and free of leaks.
❑Temperature and Pressure Relief Valve
properly installed and discharge line run to
open drain.
❑Discharge line protected from freezing.
❑Power Supply voltage agrees with water
heater rating plate.
❑Branch circuit wire and fusing or circuit
breaker of proper size.
❑Electrical connections tight and unit properly
grounded.

12
Safety Precautions
Do turn off power to water heater if
it has been subjected to over heating,
fire, flood, physical damage.
Do Not turn on water heater unless it
is filled with water.
Do Not turn on water heater if cold
water supply shut-off valve is closed.
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.
Operating the water heater.
CAUTION: 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.
Safety Controls
The water heater is equipped with a
combination thermostat and temperature
limiting control (ECO) that is located
above the heating element in contact with
the tank surface. If for any reason the water
temperature becomes excessively high, the
temperature limiting control (ECO) breaks
the power circuit to the heating element.
Once the control opens, it must be reset
manually.
CAUTION: The cause of the high
temperature condition must be investigated
by qualified service technician and
corrective action must be taken before
placing the water heater in service again.
To reset the temperature limiting control:
Turn off the power to the water
heater.
Remove the jacket access panel(s)
and insulation.
The thermostat protective cover
should not be removed. (Only on
certain models).
Press the red RESET button.
Replace the insulation and jacket
access panel(s) before turning on the
power to the water heater.
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.

If adjustment is necessary…
Turn off the power to the water
heater.
Remove the jacket access panel(s)
and insulation exposing the
thermostat(s).
The thermostat protective cover(s)
should not be removed (Only on
certain models).
Using a small screwdriver, set the
thermostat(s) dial pointer(s) to
the desired temperature.
Replace the insulation and jacket
access panel(s). Turn on the power to
the water heater.
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TURN OFF
POWER
BEFORE
SERVICING
110
120
130140150
160
170
Thermostat and protective cover.
Time/Temperature Relationship in Scalds
Temperature Time To Produce a Serious Burn
49°C (120°F) More than 5 minutes
52°C (125°F) 11/2to 2 minutes
54°C (130°F) About 30 seconds
57°C (135°F) About 10 seconds
60°C (140°F) Less than 5 seconds
63°C (145°F) Less than 3 seconds
66°C (150°F) About 11/2seconds
68°C (155°F) About 1 second
Table courtesy of Shriners Burn Institute
DANGER: There is a hot
water scald potential
if the thermostat is set
too high. Households with small
children, disabled, or elderly
persons may require a 49°C
(120°F) or lower thermostat
setting to prevent contact with
HOT water.
Water Temperature Setting
The temperature of the water in the water
heater can be regulated by setting the
temperature dial of the adjustable surface
mounted thermostat(s) located behind the
jacket access panel(s).
Dual element heaters have two
thermostats.
Safety and energy conservation are factors
to be considered when selecting the water
temperature setting of the water heater’s
thermostat(s). The lower the temperature
setting, the greater the savings in energy
and operating costs.
The thermostat(s) are factory set at 60°C
(140°F) or less where local codes require.
This is the recommended starting point.
Water temperatures above 52°C (125°F)
can cause severe burns or death from
scalding. Be sure 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
thermostat access panel.
Mixing valves for reducing point of use
water temperature by mixing hot and cold
water in branch water lines are available.
Contact a licensed plumber or the local
plumbing authority for further
information.
The chart below may be used as a guide in
determining the proper water temperature
for your home.
Reset button
Thermostat
protective
cover (only on
certain
models)
Thermostat
dial pointer
13

14
Routine Preventative Maintenance
Properly maintained, your water heater
will provide years of dependable trouble-
free service.
It is suggested that a routine preventive
maintenance program be established and
followed by the user.
It is further recommended that a periodic
inspection of the operating controls,
heating element and wiring should be
made by service personnel qualified in
electric appliance repair.
Most electrical appliances, even when
new, make some sound when in operation.
If the hissing or singing sound level
increases excessively, the electric heating
element may require cleaning. Contact a
qualified installer or plumbing contract to
inspect.
At least once a year, lift and release the
lever handle on the temperature pressure
relief valve, located near the top of the
water heater, to make certain the valve
operates freely. Allow several litres to
flush through the discharge line to an open
drain.
A water heater’s tank can act as a settling
basin for solids suspended in the water. It
is therefore not uncommon for hard water
deposits to accumulate in the bottom of the
tank. It is suggested that a few litres of
water be drained from the water heater’s
tank every month to clean the tank of
these deposits.
Rapid closing of faucets or solenoid
valves in automatic water using appliances
can cause a banging noise heard in a water
pipe. Strategically located risers in the
water pipe system or water hammer
arresting devices can be used to minimize
the problem.
The anode rod should be removed from the
water heater’s tank annually for inspection
and replaced when more than 15 cm (6”) of
core wire is exposed at either end of the rod.
Make sure the cold water supply is turned
off before removing anode rod.
NOTICE: Do not remove the anode rod
from the water heater’s tank, except for
inspection and/or replacement, as operation
with the anode rod removed will greatly
shorten the life of the glass lined tank and
will exclude warranty coverage.
Care and cleaning of the water heater.
Draining the Water Heater
CAUTION: Shut off power to the water
heater before draining water.
DANGER: Before manually operating
the relief valve, make certain no one will be
exposed to the hot water released by the
valve. The water drained from the tank may
be hot enough to present a scald hazard and
should be directed to a suitable drain to
prevent injury or damage.
In order to drain the water heater, 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.
Attach a garden hose to the drain valve on
the water heater and direct the stream of
water to a drain. Open the valve.
Vacation and Extended Shut-Down
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 build-up
of dangerous hydrogen gas.
The water heater and piping should be
drained if they might be subjected to
freezing temperatures.
After a long shut-down period, the water
heater’s operation and controls should be
checked by qualified service personnel.
Make certain the water heater is
completely filled again before placing it in
operation.
NOTICE: Refer to the
Hydrogen Gas Caution in the
Operating Instructions.
DANGER: Before
manually operating 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 a scald hazard. The
water should be released into a
suitable drain to prevent
injury or property damage.
NOTICE: If the temperature
and pressure relief valve
on the hot water heater
discharges periodically,
this may be due to thermal
expansion in a closed
water system. Contact
the water supplier or
your plumbing contractor on
how to correct this.
Do not plug the relief
valve outlet.

15
Before You Call For Service…
Troubleshooting Tips
Save time and money! Review the chart on this page first
and you may not need to call for service.
Problem Possible Causes What To Do
Rumbling noise Water conditions in your ●Remove and clean the heating elements.
home caused a build up of
scale or mineral deposits
on the heating elements.
Relief valve Pressure build up caused ●This is an unacceptable condition and must be
producing popping by thermal expansion corrected. Contact the water supplier or plumbing
noise or draining in a closed system. contractor on how to correct this. Do not plug the
relief valve outlet.
Rattling noise Internal heat trap ●This is normal for heat trap fittings when in operation
during periods fittings in operation. and does not indicate a need for service.
of water usage
Not enough or Water usage may have ●Wait for the water heater to recover after an abnormal
no hot water exceeded the capacity demand.
of the water heater.
A fuse is blown or a circuit ●Replace fuse or reset circuit breaker.
breaker tripped.
Electric supply may be off. ●Make sure electric supply to water heater and
disconnect switch, if used, are in the ON position.
The thermostat may ●See the Temperature regulation of the water heater
be set too low. section of this manual.
Leaking or open hot ●Make sure all faucets are closed.
water faucets.
Electric service to your ●Contact the local electric utility.
home may be interrupted.
Improper wiring. ●See the Installing the water heater section of this
manual.
Manual reset limit (ECO). ●See the Temperature regulation of the water heater
section of this manual.
Cold water inlet ●This is normal. The colder inlet water takes longer
temperature may be to heat.
colder during the
winter months.
Water is too hot The thermostat ●See the Temperature regulation of the water heater
is set too high. section of this manual.
CAUTION: For your safety DO NOT attempt repair of electrical wiring, thermostats,
heating elements or other safety devices. Refer repairs to qualified service personnel.

16
Replacement Parts.
Instructions For Placing a Parts Order
Address parts orders to the distributor or
store where the heater was purchased.
All parts orders should include:
The model and serial number of the
water heater from the rating plate.
Specify voltage and wattage as
marked on the rating plate.
Part description (as noted below) and
number of parts desired.
CAUTION: For your safety DO NOT
attempt repair of electrical wiring,
thermostat(s), heating elements or other
operating controls. Refer repairs to qualified
service personnel.
NOTICE: Some parts may vary in appearance
from model to model.
R
E
S
E
T
R
E
S
E
T
140
130
120110100
90
TH
ERM
-O-D
ISC
TU
RN
OFF
POW
ER
B
EFORE
SERV
ICIN
G
140
130
120110100
90
T
H
ERM
-O-D
ISC
TU
RN
OFF
POW
ER
B
EFORE
SERV
ICIN
G
Junction box cover
Plate cover
Anode rod
Dip tube gasket
Dip tube/internal heat trap
Temperature & Pressure
relief valve
Internal heat trap
Internal heat trap
gasket
Some models may have
been supplied with
External heat traps
in lieu of Internal heat traps
Heating element
gasket
Electrical
junction box
Upper thermostat
Upper thermostat protective cover
(On certain models)
Jacket
access
panels
Cavity
insulation
Thermostat
bracket
Lower
Thermostat
Heating element
Alternate
construction
jacket access
panel
Drain valve shroud
Drain valve
Heating element
Lower thermostat protective cover
(on certain models)
Thermostat bracket
Dip tube gasket
Anode rod
Dip tube Temperature & Pressure
relief valve
(Supplied with certain models)
Alternate Construction
(for certain models)
NOTICE: Models
constructed with a
side cold water inlet
will not contain a
Dip Tube or a Dip
Tube Gasket.

17
Cavity Insert Instructions (for certain models)
The following instructions are intended for
qualified service personnel ONLY, and should only
be done when necessary.
In order to replace the thermostat or heating element,
remove the cavity insert crossbar by following the
instructions below:
Turn off the power to the water heater.
Remove the jacket access panel(s) and insulation.
Rotate the crossbar up and down until it breaks away
from the remainder of the cavity insert.
(See illustration to the left)
Discard the crossbar. It cannot and need not be
replaced.
Replace the thermostat and/or element as necessary.
Replace the insulation and jacket access panel(s)
before turning on the power to the water heater.
NOTICE: The cavity insert crossbar is necessary for the
manufacturing process only. The removal of the
crossbar will not interfere with the operation of the
water heater.

18
IF YOU NEED SERVICE
1. Should you have any questions about your new water heater, or if it requires
adjustment, repair, or routine maintenance, it is suggested that you first contact
your installer, plumbing contractor or previously agreed upon service agency. In
the event the firm has moved, or is unavailable, refer to the telephone directory,
commercial listings or local utility for qualified service assistance.
2. Should your problem not be solved to your complete satisfaction, you should
then contact the Manufacturer’s National Service Department at the following
address:
Rheem Canada Ltd./Ltée.
128 Barton Street West
P.O. Box 2846, Station A
Hamilton, Ontario Canada L8N 3P3
Customer Service: 1-800-432-8373
Warranty: 1-800-263-8342
When contacting the manufacturer, the following information will be requested:
a. Model and serial number of the water heater as shown on the rating plate attached
to the jacket of the heater.
b. Address where the water heater is located and physical location.
c. Name and address of installer and any service agency who performed service on
the water heater.
d. Date of original installation and dates any service work was performed.
e. Details of the problems as you can best describe them.
f. List of people, with dates, who have been contacted regarding your problem.

19
Notes

20
Wiring diagram
Wiring Diagram for Type–59T Therm-o-disc Thermostats
2
UPPER THERMOSTAT
& HIGH TEMP LIMIT
(ECO)
UPPER
HEATING
ELEMENT
BLUE
YELLOW
BLACK
L1 G*
BRANCH CIRCUIT
TO ELECTRICAL
DISTRIBUTION PANEL
240 V.
JUNCTION
BOX
4
L2
RED
1 3
1
2
BLACK
RED
BLACK
LOWER
THERMOSTAT
1
2
4
LOWER
HEATING
ELEMENT
Double Element Models