Rheem Pronto 012 Technical Document

This water heater must be installed and serviced by a qualified person.
Please leave this guide with the householder.
Owner’s Guide
and
Installation Instructions
Rheem Pronto
Instantaneous Gas Water Heater
834 Series
012, 016 Models

PATENTS
This water heater may be protected by one or more patents or registered designs in the name of
Rheem Australia Pty Ltd or Paloma Co., Ltd.
TRADEMARKS
® Registered trademark of Rheem Australia Pty Ltd.
™ Trademark of Rheem Australia Pty Ltd.
Note: Every care has been taken to ensure accuracy in preparation of this publication.
No liability can be accepted for any consequences, which may arise as a result of its application.
Warning: Upon completion of the installation and commissioning of the water heater, leave this guide
with the householder or a responsible officer. DO NOT leave this guide inside of the cover of the water
heater, as it may interfere with the safe operation of the water heater or ignite when the water heater is
turned on.

3
CONTENTS
HOUSEHOLDER - We recommend you read pages 4 to 12.
The other pages are intended for the installer but may be of interest.
About Your Water Heater............................................................................................................ 4
Water Supplies........................................................................................................................... 10
Save A Service Call................................................................................................................... 11
Installation –Water Heater ....................................................................................................... 13
Connections –Plumbing .......................................................................................................... 20
Wiring Diagram.......................................................................................................................... 21
Commissioning.......................................................................................................................... 22
Draining The Water Heater ....................................................................................................... 26
Warranty..................................................................................................................................... 27

4
ABOUT YOUR WATER HEATER
WATER HEATER APPLICATION
This water heater is designed for use in a single family domestic dwelling for the purpose of heating potable
water. Its use in an application other than this may shorten its life.
This water heater is not suitable for pool heating, or as part of hot water circulation flow and return system, or
as an in-series booster for a solar water heater, and MUST NOT be used for these applications.
MODEL TYPE
The Rheem®instantaneous gas water heater model you have chosen is for outdoor installation only. This
model has a manufacturer’s warranty (refer to the Rheem warranty on page 27).
The water heater has a maximum preset outlet temperature setting of 60°C.
This 834 series water heater is fitted with:
A hydro-electric generator which provides power to operate the electronic
system. An external electrical power source is not required.
Electronic ignition
Electronic temperature control
Manual seasonal water flow adjustment valve as a supplementary control
to compensate for seasonal variations in mains water supply temperature
Cold start-up energy saving and water saving functions
Electronic overheat protection
Over-temperature cut-off device
Inlet water strainer
Overpressure relief valve
Self-diagnosis function.
WATER HEATER OPERATION
The water heater operates automatically, heating water as it passes through
the water heater. When a hottap is opened, the gas burners ignite to provide
immediate heating of the water. A “green” LED will illuminate when the water
heater is operating. The heat produced by the burner is transferred to the
water through the heat exchanger. The water is heated to the preset outlet
temperature by the automatic adjustment of the gas supply to the burner to
suit the water flow rate. The gas burners extinguish when the hot tap is
closed. Automatic safety controls are fitted to the water heater to provide
safe and efficient operation.
Notes
For areas that may experience very cold mains water temperature in
winter, it may be necessary to set the seasonal water flow adjustment
valve (located at the underside of the water heater) to the “Winter”
position to reduce the risk of insufficient heating of the water. Reset the
seasonal water flow adjustment valve to the “Summer” or another
intermediate position as the mains water supply becomes warmer.
It is recommended to use water saving shower heads and tap ware with
this water heater. This will not only reduce water usage, but also assist
with temperature control in winter and temperature fluctuation caused
by simultaneous water draw off from other taps.
For areas with a lower mains water pressure supply, it is advisable to
set the seasonal water flow adjustment valve to the “Summer” position
only. This will minimise water flow restriction through the water heater.
green LED illuminates when heating
water flow adjustment valve
(manual seasonal adjustment)

ABOUT YOUR WATER HEATER
5
MAINS PRESSURE
The water heater is designed for direct connection to the mains water supply. If the mains supply pressure in
your area exceeds that shown on page 15, a pressure limiting valve must be fitted. The supply pressure should
be greater than 140 kPa for the rated flow and performance to be achieved.
Note: It is not recommended this water heater be installed with a low pressure water supply.
REDUCED HOT WATER FLOW WHEN HEAT EXCHANGER IS COLD
At a cold start-up, i.e. when the water heater has not operated for some time (which is most often first thing in
the morning), the initial flow of hot water may be reduced for a period of 5-10 seconds while the heat exchanger
warms up. This is both an energy and water saving feature of this water heater. Once the heat exchanger
has warmed up the hot water flow will increase and remain at normal flow levels. This feature will only occur
at a cold start-up and not when the heat exchanger is already warm from a recent use of hot water.
HOW HOT SHOULD THE WATER BE?
The water heater heats the water to the preset outlet temperature setting.
The factory preset outlet temperature setting of the 834 series water heater
is 60°C.
Note: The preset outlet temperature setting of this water heater cannot be
adjusted by the householder. The setting can only be adjusted by the
installer, Rheem Service or their nearest Accredited Service Agent.
HOTTER WATER INCREASES THE RISK OF SCALD INJURY
This water heater can deliver water at temperatures which can cause
scalding. Check the water temperature before use, such as when entering a
shower or filling a bath or basin, to ensure it is suitable for the application
and will not cause scald injury.
We recommend and it may be required by regulations that an approved
temperature limiting device be fitted into the hot water piping to the bathroom
and ensuite when an 834 series water heater is installed. This will keep the
water temperature below 50°C at the bathroom and ensuite. The risk of scald
injury will be reduced and if the preset outlet temperature setting has not
been adjusted below 60°C, still allow hotter water to the kitchen and laundry.
SAFETY
This water heater is supplied with a temperature sensor, over-temperature cut-off device and a pressure relief
valve. These devices must not be tampered with or removed. The water heater must not be operated unless
each of these devices is fitted and is in working order.
The Rheem warranty may not cover faults if relief valves or other safety devices are tampered with or
if the installation is not in accordance with these instructions.
maximum and factory
preset outlet
temperature setting
maximum
recommended supply
temperature to
bathrooms and
ensuites

ABOUT YOUR WATER HEATER
6
WARNINGS
This water heater is only intended to be operated by persons who have the experience or the knowledge
and the capabilities to do so.
This water heater is not intended to be operated by persons with reduced physical, sensory or mental
capabilities i.e. the infirm, or by children. Children should be supervised to ensure they do not interfere
with the water heater.
For continued safety of this water heater it must be installed, operated and maintained in accordance with
the Owner’s Guide and Installation Instructions.
Do not modify this water heater.
Do not use or store flammable materials in or near this water
heater. Flammable liquids (such as petrol), combustible materials
(such as newspapers) and similar articles must be kept well away
from the water heater and the flue terminal.
Do not spray aerosols in the vicinity of this water heater while it is in
operation. Gases from some aerosol sprays become corrosive
when drawn into a flame.
Do not store swimming pool chemicals, household cleaners,
etc., near the water heater.
Do not place articles on or against this water heater, or in contact
with the flue terminal. Ensure the flue terminal is not obstructed in
any way at any time.
Do not use Propane / Butane gas mixtures in a Propane model. A Propane model is designed to operate
on Propane only. The use of Propane / Butane mixture, such as automotive LP gas fuel, in a Propane
model is unsafe and can cause damage to the water heater.
PRECAUTIONS
The water heater must be maintained in accordance with the Owner’s Guide and Installation Instructions. Refer
to “General Maintenance” on page 6, “Minor Maintenance Every Six Months”on page 7 and “Major Service
Every Five Years”on page 7.
If this water heater is to be used where an uninterrupted hot water supply is necessary for your application or
business you should ensure that you have back-up redundancy within the hot water system design. This should
ensure the continuity of hot water supply in the event that this water heater were to become inoperable for any
reason. We recommend you seek advice from your plumber or specifier about your needs and building back-
up redundancy into your hot water supply system.
GENERAL MAINTENANCE
The jacket of the water heater can be cleaned with a soft cloth and warm mild soapy water. Under no
circumstances should abrasive materials or powders be used.
The area around the water heater can be sprayed with insecticide to rid the area of insects. Insects encroaching
into or nesting in the water heater can interfere with the operation of the water heater and also damage
components.
It is recommended to turn off the cold water isolation valve to the water heater prior to performing general
maintenance. This will prevent the water heater from being used while you clean or spray around the water
heater. Turn on the cold water isolation valve when finished performing the general maintenance.
Warning: Do not spray the water heater with insecticide while the water heater is running. Propellants in
insect spray may contain hydrocarbon which can catch fire.

ABOUT YOUR WATER HEATER
7
MINOR MAINTENANCE EVERY SIX MONTHS
This can be performed by the dwelling occupant.
It is recommended to turn off the cold water isolation valve to the water heater prior to performing general
maintenance. This will prevent the water heater from being used while you clean or spray around the water
heater. Turn on the cold water isolation valve when finished performing the general maintenance.
The minor maintenance includes:
Inspect around the air inlet, flue terminal and the water heater in general for plant growth.
Trim back any shrubs, bushes or other plants which have encroached around the water heater.
Plant growth across the air inlet and flue terminal can interfere with the performance of the water
heater.
Inspect around the water heater for insect infestations, such as ants.
Spray insecticide around the water heater if necessary to rid the area of insects. Do not spray the
surface or into the air inlet or flue terminal of the water heater.
Insects encroaching into or nesting in the water heater can interfere with the operation of the water
heater and also damage components.
Warning: Do not spray the water heater with insecticide while the water heater is running.
Propellants in insect spray may contain hydrocarbon which can catch fire.
MAJOR SERVICE EVERY FIVE YEARS
For safe and efficient operation, it is recommended a major service be conducted on the water heater every
five years.
Warning: Servicing of a water heater must only be carried out by qualified personnel. Phone Rheem
Service or their nearest Accredited Service Agent.
Note: The major service and routine replacement of any components, if required, are not included in the
Rheem warranty. A charge will be made for this work. Only genuine replacement parts should be used on this
water heater.
The major service includes the following actions:
Remove and clean cold water inlet strainer.
Check and if necessary adjust the gas pressure.
Check the operation of and clean the burner and heat exchanger.
Visually check the unit for any potential problems.
Inspect all connections.
TO TURN OFF THE WATER HEATER
If it is necessary to turn off the water heater:
Close the gas isolation valve at the inlet to the water heater.
Close the cold water isolation valve at the inlet to the water heater.
Note: This water heater does not have a frost protection system. If there is a risk of freezing conditions, the
water heater must be drained, otherwise damage could result (refer “No Frost Protection” on page 8 and
“Draining the Water Heater”on page 8).

ABOUT YOUR WATER HEATER
8
TO TURN ON THE WATER HEATER
Screw in the drain plugs at the cold water inlet and hot water outlet of the water heater if the water heater
has been drained.
Open all of the hot taps in the house (don’t forget the shower).
Open the cold water isolation valve fully at the inlet to the water heater.
Air will be forced out of the taps.
Close each tap as water flows freely from it.
Open the gas isolation valve fully at the inlet to the water heater.
The water heater will operate automatically when you open a hot tap.
GOING ON HOLIDAYS
If you are going on holidays, it is not necessary to turn the water heater off. If it is necessary to turn off the
water heater, refer to “To Turn Off The Water Heater” on page 7.
NO FROST PROTECTION
The water heater is NOT fitted with a frost protection system. If there is a risk of freezing, then it is necessary
to drain the water heater (refer to “Draining the Water Heater” on page 8).
Notes:
Damage caused by freezing is not covered by the Rheem warranty (refer to “Terms of the Rheem
Warranty” on page 27).
Pipe work to and from the water heater must be adequately insulated to prevent freezing.
DRAINING THE WATER HEATER
Turn off the water heater (refer to “Turn Off The Water Heater” on page 7).
Open a hot tap (preferably the shower outlet).
Unscrew the two drain plugs, one each at the cold water inlet and hot water outlet, on the underside of
the water heater.
Water will drain from the water heater.
When water stops flowing from the water heater, close the hot tap.
Note: It is recommended not to screw the drain plugs back in, until the water heater is to be turned on again.

ABOUT YOUR WATER HEATER
9
HOW DO I KNOW IF THE WATER HEATER IS INSTALLED CORRECTLY?
Installation requirements are shown on pages 13 to 18. The water heater must be installed:
by a qualified person, and
in accordance with the installation instructions, and
in compliance with Standards AS/NZS 3500.4, and either AS 5601 or AS/NZS 5601.1 as applicable under
local regulations, and all local codes and regulatory authority requirements.
VICTORIAN CUSTOMERS
Notice to Victorian Customers from the Victorian Plumbing Industry Commission. This water heater must be
installed by a licensed person as required by the Victorian Building Act 1993.
Only a licensed person will give you a Compliance Certificate, showing that the work complies with all the
relevant Standards. Only a licensed person will have insurance protecting their workmanship for 6 years. Make
sure you use a licensed person to install this water heater and ask for your Compliance Certificate.
DOES THE WATER CHEMISTRY AFFECT THE WATER HEATER?
The water heater is suitable for most public water supplies, however some water chemistries may have
detrimental effects on the water heater, its components and fittings. Refer to “Water Supplies” on page 10.
If you are in a known harsh water area or you are not sure of your water chemistry, have your water checked
against the conditions described on page 10.
HOW LONG WILL THE WATER HEATER LAST?
The water heater is supported by a manufacturer’s warranty (refer to page 27). There are a number of factors
that will affect the length of service the water heater will provide. These include but are not limited to the water
chemistry, the water pressure, the water temperature (inlet and outlet) and the water usage pattern. Refer to
“Precautions” on page 6.

10
WATER SUPPLIES
This water heater must be installed in accordance with this advice to be covered by the Rheem
warranty.
This water heater is manufactured to suit the water conditions of most public reticulated water supplies.
However, there are some known water chemistries which can have detrimental effects on the water heater
and its operation and / or life expectancy. If you are unsure of your water chemistry, you may be able to obtain
information from your local water supply authority. This water heater should only be connected to a water
supply which complies with these guidelines for the Rheem warranty to apply.
CHANGE OF WATER SUPPLY
The changing or alternating from one water supply to another can have a detrimental effect on the operation
and / or life expectation of a heat exchanger in an instantaneous water heater.
Where there is a changeover from one water supply to another, e.g. a rainwater tank supply, bore water supply,
desalinated water supply, public reticulated water supply or water brought in from another supply, then water
chemistry information should be sought from the supplier or it should be tested to ensure the water supply
meets the requirements given in these guidelines for the Rheem warranty to apply.
SATURATION INDEX
The saturation index (SI) is used as a measure of the water’s corrosive or scaling properties. The saturation
index figures stated are calculated using a water temperature of 80°C.
In a corrosive water supply, the water can attack copper parts and cause them to fail. Where the saturation
index is less than –1.0, the water is very corrosive and the Rheem warranty does not apply to a copper heat
exchanger in a continuous flow water heater.
In a scaling water supply calcium carbonate is deposited out of the water onto any hot metallic surface. Where
the saturation index exceeds +0.80, the Rheem warranty does not apply to a copper heat exchanger in an
instantaneous water heater.
Water which is scaling may be treated with a water softening device to reduce the saturation index of the water.
Refer to the Saturation Index chart on page 10.
+0.4 +0.80-1.0
no warranty applies to a:
-continuous flow copper heat
exchanger
SATURATION INDEX (SI)
GAS CONTINUOUS FLOW WATER HEATERS
WITHIN WARRANTY
SPECIFICATION
SATURATION INDEX
(calculated @ 80°C water temperature)
no warranty applies to a:
-continuous flow copper heat
exchanger
very corrosive very scaling
scaling
corrosive