Rheem Solar Loline Conversion Kit Electric Wter... User manual

Owners Guide
and
Installation Instructions
Solar Loline Conversion Kit
Electric Water Heater
WARNING: Plumber – Be Aware
Use copper pipe ONLY. Plastic pipe MUST NOT be used.
It is a requirement of a solar water heater installation that all
pipe work be in copper and not plastic, due to the effects of
high water temperatures and pressures.
This water heater must be installed and serviced by an authorised person.
Please leave this guide with the householder.

WARNING: Plumber – Be Aware:
· The solar cold and hot pipes between the solar
storage tank and the solar collectors MUST BE of
copper and fully insulated with Armaflex insulation or
similar (minimum thickness 10 mm).
· Plastic pipe MUST NOT be used, as it will not
withstand the temperature of the water generated by
the solar collectors under stagnation conditions. The
solar collectors can generate extremely high water
temperatures, up to 150°C, and high water pressure
of 1000 kPa. Plastic pipe cannot withstand these
temperatures and pressures, and MUST NOT be
used. Failure of plastic pipe can lead to the release of
high temperature water and cause severe water
damage and flooding. Refer to Warning on page 29.
PATENTS
This water heater may be protected by one or more patents or registered designs in the
name of Rheem Australia Pty Ltd.

CONTENTS
3
HOUSEHOLDER – We recommend you read pages 4 to 17.
The other pages are intended for the installer but may be of interest.
About your water heater ..................................................................... 4
Regular care ......................................................................................... 9
How your water heater works ........................................................... 10
Save a service call ............................................................................. 14
Installation – Solar storage tank ...................................................... 18
Installation – Solar control unit ........................................................ 24
Installation – Solar collectors ........................................................... 27
Connections – Plumbing ................................................................... 28
Connections – Electrical ................................................................... 32
Commissioning .................................................................................. 34
Draining the solar collectors ............................................................ 36
Draining the water heater .................................................................. 36
Water supplies ................................................................................... 38
Warranty ............................................................................................. 40

ABOUT YOUR WATER HEATER
4
MODEL TYPE
Congratulations for choosing a Rheem electric water heater and a Rheem solar
conversion kit. The Rheem solar conversion kit converts your Rheem electric water
heater into a Rheem solar Loline water heater. Your Rheem solar Loline water
heater is designed for the solar collectors to be roof mounted and the solar storage
tank to be installed at ground level. The solar storage tank is suitable for either
outdoor or indoor installation. The system is suitable for installation, and offers
protection against freeze damage, in areas up to 800 metres altitude. The system is
not covered for freeze damage above 800 metres altitude (refer to “Warranty” on
page 40).
The model you have chosen will be either a Rheemglas or an Optima model. The
Optima model has a temperature adjusting knob on the lower front of the water
heater. Both the Rheemglas and Optima models are available with either a single
element or with twin elements (refer to “Single Element Models” on page 11 and
“Twin Element Models” on page 11).
HOW HOT SHOULD THE WATER BE?
The solar control unit will circulate water
through the solar collectors until a
temperature of approximately 75°C is
reached. During periods of low solar
energy gain, the water temperature can
be boosted by the thermostatically
controlled electric booster heating unit.
This may be operated manually or
automatically depending on how it is
wired. Refer to pages 12 and 13 or check
with your electrician.
The Optima model features a user
adjustable thermostat, which allows you to
choose the most suitable boost
temperature for your hot water needs. The
Rheemglas model features a
tradesperson adjustable thermostat. This
requires a licensed tradesperson to make
any temperature adjustments. The
temperature is adjustable within the range
shown in the diagram opposite.
Top Element
Thermostat Setting
(not adjustable)
Minimum
Thermostat Setting
and Recommended
Stored Water
Temperature
Maximum
Recommended Supply
Temperature to
Bathrooms and Ensuites
Rheemglas
Maximum
Thermostat
Setting
Typical Maximum
Temperature from
Solar Gain and
Optima Maximum
Thermostat Setting
For reasons of safety and economy we advise you adjust the thermostat to the
lowest setting which meets your needs, especially if there are young children or
elderly people in the home.

ABOUT YOUR WATER HEATER
5
HOTTER WATER INCREASES THE RISK OF SCALD INJURY
We recommend, and it may also be required by regulations, that an approved
temperature limiting device, such as the Rheem Temp-Set, be fitted into the hot
water piping to the bathroom and ensuite when this 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 still allow hotter water to the kitchen and laundry.
This temperature limiting device may be required by regulations.
TEMPERATURE ADJUSTMENT- OPTIMA
To adjust the temperature, push in the child
resistant knob and turn anti clockwise to
decrease or clockwise to increase the
temperature setting. The Optima has a
minimum temperature setting of 60°C and a
maximum temperature setting of 75°C.
WARNING
This water heater is not intended to be
operated, adjusted or tampered with by
young children or infirm persons. Young
children should be supervised to ensure
they do not interfere with the water heater.
Care should be taken not to touch the pipe work connecting the solar collectors and
the solar storage tank. Under certain conditions, very high temperature hot water
can be generated by the solar collectors and flow through the pipe work.
TO TURN OFF THE WATER HEATER
If you plan to be away from home for a few nights, we suggest you leave the water
heater switched on.
If it is necessary to turn off the water heater:
· Close the cold water isolation valve at the inlet to the water heater.
· Switch off the electrical supply at the isolating switch to the solar storage tank.
· Switch off the electrical supply at the power outlet to the solar control unit
(refer to note below).
Note: If there is a risk of freezing conditions, the electrical supply to the solar
control unit should not be switched off unless the solar collectors are drained,
otherwise damage could result (refer to “Freeze Protection” on page 8).

ABOUT YOUR WATER HEATER
6
·
·
TO TURN ON THE WATER HEATER
· Open the cold water isolation valve fully at the inlet to the water heater.
· If the solar collectors and solar hot and cold pipes have been drained, it will be
necessary to bleed the collector circuit (refer to “Bleeding the Solar Collectors”
on page 7).
If the electrical supply to the water heater has been switched off:
Switch on the electrical supply to the solar storage tank at the isolating switch
Switch on the electrical supply to the solar control unit at the power outlet.
HOW DO I KNOW IF THE WATER HEATER IS INSTALLED CORRECTLY?
Installation requirements are shown on pages 23 and 26. The water heater must be
installed by an authorised person and the installation must comply with national
codes AS/NZS 3500.4.2, AS/NZS 3000, and all local codes and regulatory authority
requirements. In New Zealand, the installation must conform with the New Zealand
Building Code.
Note: The solar hot and cold pipe work between the solar storage tank and the
solar collectors must be of copper and fully insulated with Armaflex insulation or
similar (minimum thickness 10 mm). The insulation must be weatherproof if
exposed and fitted up to the connections on the storage tank, as very high
temperature water can flow from the solar collectors to the storage tank under
certain conditions. Plastic pipe must not be used, as it will not withstand the
temperature of the water generated by the solar collectors under certain conditions
(refer to Warning on page 29).
DOES THE WATER QUALITY AFFECT THE WATER HEATER?
The water heater is suitable for most public water supplies, however some water
qualities may have detrimental effects on the cylinder, solar collectors and fittings. If
you are in a known harsh water area you must read page 38. If you are not
sure, have your water quality checked against the conditions described on page 38.
HOW LONG WILL THE WATER HEATER LAST?
There are a number of factors that will affect the length of service the water heater
will provide. These include the water quality, the water pressure, temperature (inlet
and outlet) and the water usage pattern. However, your Rheem water heater is
supported by a comprehensive warranty (refer to page 40).

ABOUT YOUR WATER HEATER
7
ANODE PROTECTION
The anode installed in your water heater will slowly dissipate whilst protecting the
cylinder. The life of the water heater cylinder may be extended by arranging for an
authorised person to inspect the anode and replacing it if required.
The suggested time after installation when the anode should be inspected is:
Rheemglas 8 years
Optima 10 years
For softened water supplies or in areas of poor water quality, it is recommended the
anode be inspected 3 years earlier than shown (refer to “Water Supplies” on
page 38).
BLEEDING THE SOLAR COLLECTORS
It is necessary to purge air from the
collector circuit:
· When the water heater is to be turned
on and the solar collectors and solar
hot and cold pipes have been drained.
· After maintenance has been
conducted on the pipe work and air
has entered the system.
· If the circulator appears not to be
circulating water around the system.
To purge air from the collector circuit:
· Ensure the solar storage tank is full of
water and all of the hot taps are
turned off.
· Using a flat blade screwdriver, open
the bleed valve (if it is not already
open) fitted adjacent to the 5 way tee
at the cold water inlet of the water
heater (see diagram).
· The mains pressure will force water to flow from the tank and through the pipe
work, expelling air from the collector circuit through the bleed valve. This is
evidenced by spurting of water from the drain line connected to the bleed
valve.
Warning: Exercise caution, as water may be at a very high temperature.
· Close the bleed valve when water runs freely from the drain line.
air bleed
valve

ABOUT YOUR WATER HEATER
8
FLUSHING THE SOLAR COLLECTORS
It may be necessary to flush the solar collectors if there is sediment in the water
supply. To flush the solar collectors, follow the procedure “Bleeding the Solar
Collectors” on page 7, allowing the water to flow from the bleed valve drain line for
five minutes before closing the bleed valve.
It is recommended to flush the solar collectors every five years. This will assist in
keeping the solar collectors, solar cold pipe and solar hot pipe clear of sediment.
FREEZE PROTECTION
The system is suitable for installation, and offers protection against freeze damage,
in areas up to 800 metres altitude. The system is not covered for freeze damage
above 800 metres altitude (refer to “Warranty” on page 40).
The anti freeze control is designed to recirculate a small amount of water from the
solar storage tank through the solar pipe work during periods of low temperatures.
This is to prevent the water inside the pipe work from freezing. It is essential that
the electrical circuit to the solar control unit is continually turned on if there is a risk
of freezing. The solar warranty does not cover damage caused by freeze conditions
when the electrical circuit to the solar control unit is turned off or interrupted.
Notes:
· If it is necessary to switch the power off to the solar control unit and there is a
risk of freezing, then it is necessary to have your plumber drain the solar
collectors and solar flow and return pipe work.
· The freeze protection system will be rendered inoperable if electrical power is
not available at the solar control unit. Damage caused by freezing due to no
power at the solar control unit, is not covered by warranty.
· Pipe work between the solar collectors and solar storage tank must be
insulated.
· The system is not covered for freeze damage above 800 metres altitude.
· Refer to “Warranty Exclusions” on page 39.

REGULAR CARE
9
TEMPERATURE AND PRESSURE RELIEF VALVE
This valve is near the top of the water heater and is
essential for its safe operation. It is possible for the
valve to release a little water through the drain pipe
during each heating period. This occurs as the water
is heated and expands by approximately 1/50 of its
volume. Never block the outlet of this valve or its
drain pipe for any reason.
Operate the easing lever on the temperature and
pressure relief valve once every six months. It is
very important you raise and lower the lever
gently. If water does not flow freely from the drain
line when the lever is lifted, then the water heater should be checked by the Rheem
Service Department of their Accredited Service Agent.
Lift until
water flows
from the
drain line –
lower gently Drain
Line
Water
Heater
The temperature and pressure relief valve should be checked for performance or
replaced at intervals not exceeding 5 years, or more frequently in areas where
there is a high incidence of water deposits (refer to “Water Supplies” on page 38).
EXPANSION CONTROL VALVE
In South Australia and Western Australia an expansion control valve is fitted to the
cold supply pipe to the water heater. Water will flow from its drain line during the
heating period. In scaling water areas, an expansion control valve should be fitted
to the cold water supply line to the water heater.
SAFETY
This water heater is supplied with a thermostat, an over-temperature cut-out, and a
combination temperature and 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.
If the power supply cord or plug to the solar control unit is damaged, it must be
replaced by an authorised person, in order to avoid a hazard. Phone your nearest
Rheem Service Department or Accredited Service Agent to arrange for an
inspection.
The warranty can become void if relief valves or other safety devices are
tampered with or if the installation is not in accordance with these
instructions.
SOLAR COLLECTOR GLASS
Ensure the glass on your solar collectors is free of dust, salt spray or any other
matter, which may reduce the effectiveness of the solar collectors. Hose or wash
the collector glass with water and a soft brush when the solar collectors are cool.
Trim any trees which may shade the solar collectors.

HOW YOUR WATER HEATER WORKS
10
The Rheem solar Loline system has its vitreous enamel lined solar storage tank
installed at ground or floor level, remotely from the solar collectors. As the sun
heats the water in the solar collectors the increase in temperature activates the
circulator. The circulator then moves the water from the solar collectors through an
insulated copper pipe to the solar storage tank. The circulator switches on
whenever the water in the solar collectors is hotter than the water in the tank.
Cooler water from the solar storage tank is circulated to the solar collectors to be
heated by the sun’s energy. This process continues while solar energy is available
and until the water in the solar storage tank reaches a temperature of
approximately 75°C.
MAINS PRESSURE
The water heater is designed to operate at mains pressure by connecting directly to
the mains water supply. If the mains supply pressure in your area exceeds that
shown on page 19, a pressure limiting valve must be fitted. The supply pressure
should be greater than 350 kPa for true mains pressure operation to be achieved.
ELECTRIC BOOSTING
Water stored in the solar storage tank can be heated by an electric booster heating
unit. The booster heating unit is for heating the water at times of low solar energy
gain, such as during very cloudy or rainy weather, or during the winter months.
The booster heating unit is controlled by an
electric thermostat. The thermostat and its
over temperature energy cut out are
mounted on the solar storage tank behind
the front cover. The water temperature is
automatically controlled to the thermostat
setting when the booster heating unit is
energised.
The Optima models feature a user
adjustable thermostat, which allows you to
choose the most suitable boost
temperature for your hot water needs. It
has a minimum temperature setting of
60°C and a maximum temperature setting
of 75°C. The thermostat on the Rheemglas
models is tradesperson adjustable. It has a
minimum temperature setting of 60°C and
a maximum temperature setting of 70°C. It
can only be adjusted by an authorised
person. Automatic safety controls are fitted
to the water heater to provide safe and
efficient operation.

HOW YOUR WATER HEATER WORKS
11
SINGLE ELEMENT MODELS
· Continuous electricity supply
This type of connection is suited to
where the storage capacity is less than
the normal daily usage.
· Off-Peak electricity supply
This type of connection will only allow
boosting to occur during set hours. A
volume of water sufficient for the day’s
total use is heated and stored. This
type of boosting may be more
economical due to reduced tariffs by
the electricity authority.
TWIN ELEMENT MODELS
This type of water heater has two heating
units, each with its own thermostat. One
heating unit is at the base of the water
heater and the other near the top.
· Lower heating unit
During normal operation this heating
unit supplies all of the boosted hot
water during periods of low solar
energy gain.
· Top heating unit
This heating unit only operates during
periods of high demand to provide an
additional supply of boosted water.
· Electrical connection
The two heating units are wired for non
simultaneous operation and only one
heating unit can operate at a time. The
lower heating unit is usually connected
to the Off-Peak electricity supply and
the top heating unit to a continuous
supply. Some electricity suppliers allow
both heating units to be metered at the
Off-Peak or controlled tariff.
NOTE: Power must be available to the top heating unit circuit at all times for
this water heater to operate as designed.

HOW YOUR WATER HEATER WORKS
12
MANUAL CONTROLS
An isolating switch is installed in your electrical meter box for your solar water
heater. Rheem recommends as an optional extra a second switch, called the
Booster Switch, be installed in a convenient location such as the kitchen or laundry.
This switch should be a normal on/off manually operated switch (recommended for
Off-Peak electricity supplies to single element models and the bottom element on
twin element models) or the Rheem “One Shot Control” switch (recommended for
continuous electricity supplies to single element models only).
The amount of water heated by the booster heating unit depends on the model of
water heater installed. The boosted volumes of hot water are:
Model 250 L 315 L 400 L
Lower Heating Unit (all models) 250 litres 315 litres 400 litres
Top Heating Unit (twin element models) 50 litres 50 litres 90 litres
MANUAL ON/OFF SWITCH
(a) Continuous Tariff Connection
Operate the booster switch to activate the
auxiliary booster heating unit when the hot
water falls below an acceptable temperature.
It is important to ensure the booster switch is
turned OFF after you have satisfied your hot
water needs. Do not leave the booster switch
ON in sunlight hours because your solar
savings will be reduced.
(b) Extended Off-Peak Tariff Connection
Operation is very similar to that suggested for
continuous tariff, but it is important to be
aware of the hours during which electricity is
available so boosting, if required, can be
adapted to suit. (Check with your local
Electricity Supply Authority for hours of
operation). Do not leave the booster switch on
during daylight hours unless boosting is
required, as solar savings will be reduced.
(c) Off-Peak (night rate) Tariff Connection
Most systems will be connected to an Off-Peak supply of electricity. Boosting will
only occur overnight (usually between 11:00 PM and 6:00 AM). In the winter
months many households will find it necessary to leave the booster switch ON.
However, in some cases it may only be necessary to switch the booster switch ON
every second night. This can be determined over a trial period.

HOW YOUR WATER HEATER WORKS
13
“ONE SHOT CONTROL” SWITCH
The “One Shot Control” switch has been specially developed to help provide
maximum savings with electrically boosted solar water heaters connected to a
continuous electricity supply. Power must be available to the “One Shot Control”
switch before the booster heating unit can be activated.
The switch has a push button operation
and incorporates a neon light indicator.
This neon light will come on when the
water in the boosted section of the solar
storage tank falls more than 6°C below
the thermostat setting, indicating
boosting may be required.
When you decide the hot water is below
a usable temperature and additional hot
water is required, press the control
button. The neon light will go out and the
booster heating unit will be turned “ON”.
The booster heating unit is automatically
turned “OFF” when the water
temperature reaches the thermostat
setting.
It is not necessary to activate the booster heating unit every time the neon light is
on (the neon light indicates the water is more than 6°C below the thermostat
setting). The water may still be at a usable temperature for some purposes (e.g.
showering) and you may not need to use hot water for some hours during which
time the water may be heated by the sun.
Remember, even on cloudy days your solar water heater can receive diffused
radiation, which will heat some of your stored water. On these days you will
need to operate the booster heating unit only as desired. For summer
operation it is recommended trial periods be undertaken to determine if it is
necessary to turn the booster switch or one shot control ‘on’ at all.
GOING ON HOLIDAYS
If you plan to be away from home for a few nights, we suggest you leave the water
heater switched on. If you plan to be away for a longer period, conserve energy by
switching the booster switch “OFF”. It is not necessary to switch off the electrical
supply at the power outlet to the solar control unit. Refer to “To Turn Off The Water
Heater” on page 5. Also if the system is not used for a period in excess of 4 weeks
it is recommended the solar collectors be covered.

SAVE A SERVICE CALL
14
·
·
·
Check the items below before making a service call. You will be charged for
attending to any condition or fault that is not related to manufacture or failure of a
part.
NOT ENOUGH HOT WATER (OR NO HOT WATER)
Insufficient sunlight
Insufficient sunlight due to cloudy
weather during summer months or low
solar energy contribution in winter
months may mean you will need to switch
on the booster heating unit more often.
· Booster heating unit not operating
Inspect the isolating switch marked “HOT
WATER” or “WATER HEATER”
switchboard and the booster switch (if
one is installed) and ensure they are
turned “ON”. Check the electrical tariff to
which the unit is connected. If on Off-
Peak remember heating hours are
restricted (refer to “Off-Peak Tariff” on
page 12). Check the fuse marked “water
heater”.
Check the fuse marked “HOT WATER” or “WATER HEATER” at the switchboard.
· Twin element models
For twin element non simultaneous models power must be available to the top
heating unit circuit at all times for this water heater to operate as designed.
Solar Control Unit
Check the power outlet to the solar control unit is switched on.
Collectors shaded
If trees or other objects shade the solar collectors or if the glass is dirty, the
effectiveness of the solar collectors will be greatly reduced. Clean the collector
glass, trim trees or relocate the solar collectors if the obstruction is permanent.
· Collector area is too small
For most installations, the number of solar collectors recommended in Rheem
literature has been proven to provide the required solar energy to meet the
average family needs. However, in some circumstances, it may be necessary to
install an additional solar collector.

SAVE A SERVICE CALL
15
·
·
·
·
·
Air in collectors (no solar gain)
It is possible under certain conditions, such as when the pipe work has been
opened, that air may become trapped in the solar collectors. This will prevent the
circulator from moving water around the collector circuit. The air will need to be
purged from the solar collectors (refer to “Bleeding The Solar Collectors” on
page 7).
Are you using more hot water than you think?
Is one outlet (especially the shower) using more hot water than you think?
Carefully review the family’s hot water usage. As you have installed an energy
saving appliance, energy saving must also be practised in the home. Adjust your
water usage pattern to take advantage of maximum solar gains. Still have
enjoyable showers, but restrict the amount of hot water used by simply fitting an
inexpensive flow control valve to your shower rose.
Temperature and pressure relief valve running
Is the relief valve discharging too much water? (Refer to “Temperature and
Pressure Relief Valve Running” on page 16).
Thermostat setting
Ensure the thermostat setting is appropriate. You may choose to adjust (Optima
models) or have your electrician adjust (Rheemglas models) the thermostat
upwards to gain additional hot water capacity when boosting.
Water heater size
Do you have the correct size water heater for your requirements? The sizing
guides in the sales literature and on the Rheem website (www.rheem.com.au)
suggest average sizes that may be needed.
WATER NOT HOT ENOUGH
You may find that due to heavy hot water usage or low solar energy gain the water
temperature may be lower than normally expected. You will need to carefully plan
your use of the booster heating unit to boost the water temperature on such
occasions.
A lower water temperature may also be noticed in the morning when the booster
heating unit has not been switched on overnight. This in particular may be
experienced during periods of low solar energy gain, or if there has been heavy hot
water usage the previous night.

SAVE A SERVICE CALL
16
·
·
·
·
TEMPERATURE AND PRESSURE RELIEF VALVE RUNNING
Normal Operation
It is normal and desirable this valve
allows a small quantity of water to
escape during the heating cycle.
However, if it discharges more than a
bucket full of water in 24 hours, there
may be another problem.
Continuous dribble
Try gently raising the easing lever on
the relief valve for a few seconds. (refer
to “Temperature and Pressure Relief
Valve” on page 9). This may dislodge a
small particle of foreign matter and clear
the fault. Release the lever gently.
Steady flows for long period (often at
night)
This may indicate the mains water
pressure sometimes rises above the
designed pressure of the water heater.
Ask your installing plumber to fit a
pressure limiting valve.
NEVER replace the relief valve with one
of a higher pressure rating.
Heavy flows of hot water until the water heater is cold - then stops until
water reheats
The water heater must be switched off at the isolating switch or switchboard.
Phone your nearest Rheem Service Department or Accredited Service Agent
to arrange for an inspection.
EXPANSION CONTROL VALVE RUNNING
If an expansion control valve is fitted in the cold water line to the water heater (refer
to page 21) it may discharge a small quantity of water instead of the Temperature
and Pressure Relief valve on the water heater. The benefit is that energy is
conserved as the discharged water is cooler.

SAVE A SERVICE CALL
17
·
·
·
·
·
HIGH ELECTRICITY BILLS
With the installation of your new solar hot water system, maximum electrical energy
savings can be achieved with careful planning of hot water usage. Should you at
any time, feel your electricity account is too high, we suggest you check the
following points:
Is the relief valve running excessively?
(Refer to “Temperature and Pressure
Relief Valve Running” on page 16).
Is one outlet (especially the shower)
using more hot water than you think?
(Refer to “Not Enough Hot Water” on
page 14).
Is there a leaking hot water pipe,
dripping hot water tap, etc? Even a
small leak will waste a surprising
quantity of hot water and energy.
Replace faulty tap washers, and have
your plumber rectify any leaking pipe
work.
Are you using the booster heating unit properly? (Refer to “Manual On/Off
Switch” on page 12 and “One Shot Control Switch” on page 13)
Consider recent changes to your hot water usage pattern and check if there
has been any increase in tariffs since your previous account.
ELECTRICITY TARIFFS
The electricity tariff to which your solar water heater is connected will play an
important role in the overall effectiveness of the system. It is important you are
aware of this tariff to enable you to take full advantage of the boosting period,
i.e. Domestic/Continuous, Off-Peak, Extended Off-Peak. For types of tariffs (refer to
“How Your Water Heater Works” on page 12).
COLLECTOR GLASS
Warranty DOES NOT cover breakage of solar collector glass. Check your
household insurance policy covers collector glass breakage. Warning: Collector
glass should not be replaced whilst the solar collector is on the roof. The solar
collector must be disconnected and brought to ground level before replacing the
collector glass. Should the glass on a solar collector require replacement, contact
your nearest Rheem Service Office or Accredited Service Agent.
IF YOU HAVE CHECKED ALL THE FOREGOING AND STILL BELIEVE YOU
NEED ASSISTANCE, CALL YOUR NEAREST RHEEM SERVICE OFFICE OR
ACCREDITED SERVICE AGENT.

INSTALLATION – SOLAR STORAGE TANK
18
The system is suitable for installation, and offers protection against freeze damage,
in areas up to 800 metres altitude. The system has NO WARRANTY for freeze
damage above 800 metres altitude (refer to “Warranty” on page 40).
THIS WATER HEATER IS NOT SUITABLE FOR POOL HEATING.
SOLAR WATER HEATER STORAGE TANK LOCATION
The solar water heater storage tank is suitable for either outdoor or indoor
installation. Whether located outdoor or indoor, the solar water heater storage tank
should be installed close to the most frequently used outlet and its position chosen
with safety and service in mind.
Clearance must be allowed for servicing of the water heater. The solar water heater
storage tank must be accessible without the use of a ladder or scaffold. Make sure
the Temperature and Pressure Relief valve lever is accessible and the front cover,
thermostat and booster heating unit can be removed for service.
You must be able to read the information on the rating plate. If possible leave
headroom of one water heater length so the anode can be inspected or replaced.
Remember you may have to remove the entire water heater later for servicing.
The installation must comply with
the requirements of
AS/NZS 3500.4.2, AS/NZS 3000,
and all local codes and regulatory
authority requirements. In New
Zealand, the installation must
conform with the New Zealand
Building Code.
It is recommended the solar
storage tank be installed at ground
or floor level and must stand
vertically upright. Remember all
local authorities have regulations
about putting water heaters into
roof spaces.

INSTALLATION – SOLAR STORAGE TANK
19
SAFE TRAY
It is a requirement of the National Plumbing
Code AS/NZS 3500.4.2 that for new
installations all water heaters be installed in
a safe tray where in the event of a leak,
property may be damaged. Installation of
such trays must comply with Clause 4.4
and Sub-clauses 1 to 5 of the above
mentioned code.
MAINS WATER SUPPLY
Where the mains water supply exceeds that shown in the table below, an approved
pressure limiting valve is required and should be fitted as shown in the installation
diagram (refer to diagram on page 21).
Model 250, 315, 400 litre
Relief valve setting 1000 kPa
Expansion control valve setting * 850 kPa
Max. mains supply pressure
With expansion control valve 680 kPa
Without expansion control valve 800 kPa
* Expansion control valve not supplied with the water heater.
TANK WATER SUPPLY
If the water heater is supplied with water from a tank supply, then the bottom of the
supply tank must be at least 1 m above both the solar collectors and the highest hot
water outlet. Take care to avoid air locks. The cold water supply line to the water
heater should be adequately sized and fitted with a full flow gate valve or ball valve.
HOT WATER DELIVERY
This water heater can deliver water at temperatures which can cause scalding. It is
necessary that a temperature limiting device, such as the Rheem Temp-Set, be
fitted between the water heater and the outlets in any ablution area, such as a
bathroom or ensuite, when this water heater is installed, to reduce the risk of
scalding. The installing plumber may have a legal obligation to ensure the
installation of this water heater meets the delivery water temperature requirements
of AS/NZS 3500.4.2 so that scalding water temperatures are not delivered to a
bathroom, ensuite or other ablution area (refer to diagram on page 21).

INSTALLATION – SOLAR STORAGE TANK
20
REDUCING HEAT LOSSES
We recommend the first 1.5 to 2 m of the hot water line coming out of the water
heater be insulated with weatherproof insulation. In addition, the insulation of the
hot water line from the water heater must comply with the requirements of
AS/NZS 3400.4.2.
ANODE TYPES
The correct anode type for the water supply being used must be fitted in the water
heater (refer to “Water Supplies” on page 38). The black anode is standard.
Total Dissolved Solids in water supply to the water heater Anode colour code
0 – 40 mg/L Green
40 – 600 mg/L Black
600 – 2500 mg/L Blue
SADDLING - PIPE WORK
To prevent damage to the cylinder when attaching pipe clips or saddles to the water
heater jacket, we recommend the use of self-drilling screws with a maximum length
of 12 mm. Should pre drilling be required, extreme caution must be observed when
penetrating the jacket of the water heater.
Note: Damage to the cylinder as a result of saddling to the jacket will void the
warranty.
BOOSTER HEATING UNIT
The booster heating unit(s) provides hot water during periods of low solar gain.
Single element models can be connected to either an Off-Peak electricity supply or
a continuous electricity supply. Twin element models are to be connected with the
bottom heating unit on an Off-Peak electricity supply and the top heating unit on a
continuous electricity supply. Boosting can be controlled via a user operated
manual switch. Refer to “Manual Controls” on page 33.