Rinnai RCE-229A Quick start guide

THIS IS AN UNVENTED GAS-FIRED HEATER. IT USES AIR (OXYGEN)
FROM THE ROOM IN WHICH IT IS INSTALLED. PROVISIONS FOR
ADEQUATE COMBUSTION AND VENTILATION AIR MUST BE PROVIDED.
REFER TO INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS ON PAGE 8.
HOME OWNER/INSTALLER
FOR YOUR SAFETY
THIS MANUAL MUST BE READ IN ITS
ENTIRETY BEFORE OPERATING HEATER
RCE-229A
SILENT SERVANT
CONVECTOR VENT-FREE SPACE HEATER
Owner’s Operation and Installation Manual
WARNING: IF THE INFORMATION IN THIS MANUAL IS NOT FOLLOWED
EXACTLY, A FIRE OR EXPLOSION MAY RESULT CAUSING PROPERTY
DAMAGE, PERSONAL INJURY OR LOSS OF LIFE.
INSTALLER: MUST LEAVE MANUAL WITH UNIT AFTER INSTALLATION.
OWNER: RETAIN THIS MANUAL SAFELY, FOR FUTURE REFERENCE.
WHAT TO DO IF YOU SMELL GAS
•DO NOT TRY TO LIGHT ANY APPLIANCE.
•DO NOT TOUCH ANY ELECTRICAL SWITCH; DO NOT USE ANY
PHONE IN YOUR BUILDING.
•IMMEDIATELY CALL YOUR GAS SUPPLIER FROM A
NEIGHBOR'S PHONE. FOLLOW THE GAS SUPPLIER'S
INSTRUCTIONS.
•IF YOU CANNOT REACH YOUR GAS SUPPLIER, CALL THE
FIRE DEPARTMENT.
INSTALLATION AND SERVICE MUST BE PERFORMED BY A QUALIFIED
INSTALLER, SERVICE AGENCY OR THE GAS SUPPLIER.
DO NOT STORE OR USE GASOLINE OR OTHER FLAMMABLE VAPORS
AND LIQUIDS IN THE VICINITY OF THIS OR ANY OTHER APPLIANCE.

Model RCE-229Awww.rinnaina.com 2
GENERAL INFORMATION
WARNING
IMPROPER INSTALLATION, ADJUSTMENT, ALTERATION,
SERVICE OR MAINTENANCE CAN CAUSE PROPERTY
DAMAGE, PERSONAL INJURY OR LOSS OF LIFE. REFER
TO THE OWNER’S INFORMATION MANUAL PROVIDED
WITH THIS APPLIANCE. INSTALLATION AND SERVICE
MUST BE PERFORMED BY A QUALIFIED INSTALLER,
SERVICE AGENCY OR THE GAS SUPPLIER. FOR
ASSISTANCE OR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION CONSULT A
QUALIFIED INSTALLER, SERVICE AGENCY OR THE GAS
SUPPLIER.
Page
SPECIFICATIONS .................................................................................................3
SAFETY DEVICES ................................................................................................3
IMPORTANT POINTS ............................................................................................4
SAFETY POINTS ...................................................................................................5
USAGE AND INSTALLATION MUSTS ...................................................................7
INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS ..........................................................................8
OPERATING INSTRUCTION PLATE .....................................................................11
ADDITIONAL CUSTOMER OPERATING INFORMATION ..................................12
MAINTENANCE / SERVICE ................................................................................17
TROUBLE SHOOTING CHART ...........................................................................18
SCHEMATIC DRAWINGS/PARTS LIST ..............................................................................20
ERROR MESSAGES ...........................................................................................27
LIMITED WARRANTY .....................................................................................back cover
THAN AS SHOWN IN THESE INSTRUCTIONS OR USED WITH A TYPE OF GAS
NOT SHOWN ON THE RATING PLATE, IS THE RESPONSIBILITY OF THE PERSON
AND COMPANY MAKING THE CHANGE.
THIS SERIES IS DESIGN CERTIFIED BY THE AMERICAN GAS
ASSOCIATION LABORATORIES AS A VENT FREE CIRCULATOR AND
MUST BE INSTALLED ACCORDING TO THESE INSTRUCTIONS.
ANY ALTERATION OF THE ORIGINAL DESIGN INSTALLED OTHER
TABLE OF CONTENTS

Model RCE-229A 800-621-94193
SPECIFICATIONS
Model Input Rati ng
Btuh HIGH
Input Rating
Btuh LOW Thermostat Weight in pounds
Dimensions
in inches
Fan CFM
Output
RCE-229A-N 6,000 2,000 YES
13.4
Height: 14 9/16"
Width: 14 3/4"
Depth: 6 11/16"
High: 64
Low: 46
RCE-229A-P 6,000 2,500 YES
Overheat Switch
When the heater gets too hot during operation (for example when the filters or air outlet louvers are
blocked) this device turns the gas off automatically. Remove cause of overheat (clean filters) allow
heater to cool, then re-ignite.
Fuse
The electrical circuits are protected by a fuse. When the fuse blows, the heaters will not operate at
all. The fuse must be replaced by an authorized person.
Flame Failure Device
This device automatically cuts off the gas supply to the heater in the event of a gas failure. To
restore the gas supply to the heater, turn it off, then follow the ignition procedure.
Oxygen Depletion Safety Device
If the oxygen level in the room drops below a pre-set limit, this device cuts the gas supply off to the
heater. If the oxygen depletion device operates, turn the heater off, ventilate the room, then follow the
ignition procedure to re-light. Heater will not re-light until room is fully ventilated.
Tilt Switch
If the heater is knocked over, the tilt switch will cut the gas supply off. The fan keeps running. To
restore the gas supply, stand the heater upright, turn it off then follow the ignition procedure. The
tilt switch may also operate if the heater is jolted or picked up while in operation.
Power Failure
In the event of a power failure or power cut, the gas valves will automatically close. After the
power is re-instated the appliance must be restarted manually.
“-N” Models are for Natural Gas. (Inlet Pressure within 4.3"-10.5"W.C.)
“-N” Models manifold pressure: 3.5"W.C.
“-P” Models are for L. P. Gas. (Inlet Pressure within 4.7"-13"W.C.)
“-P” Models manifold pressure: 4.4"W.C.
Gas connection pipe size 1/2" N.P.T. all models.
SAFETY DEVICES

Model RCE-229Awww.rinnaina.com 4
IMPORTANT POINTS
UNPACK HEATER:
Check for damage. (DO NOT INSTALL DAMAGED HEATER.) If heater is damaged, contact your
supplier for advice. Before installing a heater, check the label for the correct gas type (see label on side
of heater). Refer to local gas authority for confirmation of gas type if you are in doubt.
INCLUDED IN CARTON:
Customers Operating Information/Manual Gas Valve
IMPORTANT
1. The appliance must be installed in accordance with state and local codes.
2. For information on gas rate, see data plate on the appliance.
3. When using this appliance, ensure that the room is correctly ventilated. Check the local gas
authority for information on ventilation requirements.
4. The heater must not be installed where curtains or other combustible materials could come into
contact with it. In some cases, curtains may need restraining. It must also be 2" (50mm) clear of
walls.
5. This appliance is not designed to be built in.
6. If you move, check the gas type in the area where you are moving to. The local gas authority will
be able to advise on local regulations.
7. This heater discharges a large volume of warm air at low level to provide even heat distribution. If
the air in the room contains cooking vapor or cigarette smoke, and the heater is used on a carpet,
the surface of the carpet may become discolored.
In addition, some nylon carpets contain dyes which may be affected by the warm air flow. Some
soft vinyl surfaces are also subject to distortion, or discoloration by warm air. To prevent
discoloration of carpets etc., a mat should be placed under the appliance, extending about
30"(750mm) in front of it.
8. This heater can be installed in a bathroom or a bedroom.
When installed in a bathroom or a bedroom, the heater must be wall mounted with optional wall
mounting kit.
See page 26 of manual for part No. of wall mounting kit.

Model RCE-229A 800-621-94195
SAFETY POINTS
Do not install this heater in areas where
spray painting or plating is taking place, or
in places such as hair dressers, where there
may be a lot of fluff and dust, and where
aerosols are used. May create strong odors
and irritate eyes and sinuses.
Do not spray aerosols near this heater while
it is in use. Many aerosols contain butane
gas and can be a fire hazard. Use of
aerosols, paint, polishes etc., while this
heater is in use will cause unpleasant smells.
Do not allow children or elderly persons to
sleep in the warm air discharge from the
heater.
Do not move the heater while it is turned on.
Turn off heater when not in use and when
away for long periods of time.
Do not sit on this heater.

Model RCE-229Awww.rinnaina.com 6
SAFETY POINTS
Do not place wet articles on this heater, the
water may drip into the electrical parts.
Do not turn the heater off by unplugging it
from the wall, or while the fan is cooling the
heater off. (This heater is not suitable for
use with a plug in type timer.)
Keep away from flammable materials.
Combustible materials must not be placed
where the heater could ignite them.
Do not place articles in front of the hot air
discharge.
Do not allow children to put articles in the
louvers.
Supervise children playing near this heater.
Ventilate the room when this heater is in
use. Correct, fixed ventilation is usually
sufficient, consult your local gas authority
for local regulations.
Do not place containers of liquid on top of
the heater. Water in the heater can cause
extensive damage.

Model RCE-229A 800-621-94197
USAGE AND INSTALLATION MUSTS
1. Read these rules and the instructions carefully. Check all local codes. Failure to follow these could cause a
malfunction of the heater resulting in death, serious bodily injury and/or property damage.
2. This heater is designed for use only with one type of gas, either L.P.G. or Natural Gas. Make sure that the type of
gas to be supplied to this unit matches that shown on the rating plate on the heater. This unit is not convertible.
3. WARNING: Any change to this heater or its controls can be dangerous.
4. If a gas leak is suspected, turn heater off, turn gas supply valve off at regulator or appliance connecter valve. Open
windows to ventilate area immediately and contact your dealer or gas company.
5. Installation and repair should be done by a qualified service person. Heater should be inspected before use and at
least annually by a professional service person. More frequent cleaning may be required due to excessive lint from
carpeting, bedding material, etc. It is imperative that control compartment, burners and circulating air passageways
be kept clean.
6. Keep area near the heater clear and free from combustible materials, gasoline and other flammable vapors and
liquids.
7. Due to its high temperature, the heater should be located out of traffic and away from furniture and draperies.
8. Do not place clothing or flammable material on or near the heater.
9. Any safety panel or guard removed for servicing must be replaced prior to operating the heater.
10. An unvented gas heater will increase the amount of humidity in the room.
11. This heater is intended for space heating purposes only. Do not use for other purposes such as drying clothes or
baking paints.
12. Do not touch the outlet area while the heater is in use. To avoid burns, do not move the heater during use and
avoid touching the heater just after turning off.
13. Children and adults should be alerted to the hazard of high surface temperatures and should stay away to avoid
burns or clothing ignition.
14. Young children should be carefully supervised when they are in the same room with the heater.
15. L.P.G containers must not be installed indoors.
16. Do not install in a windy area such as facing a window or a door leading to the outside.
17. Do not use this room heater if any part has been under water. Immediately call a qualified service technician to
inspect the room heater and to replace any part of the control system and any gas control which has been under
water.
18. Carpet lint or cigarette smoke may pass through the heater, discolor, and be deposited into the room.
19. This unit discharges a large volume of warm air at a low level to provide even heat distribution. If the air in the
room contains cooking vapors, cigarette smoke, and if used on carpet, the surface in front of unit is subject to
discoloration. Some carpets contain dyes which can be effected by warm air flow and could discolor. To aid in
prevention of discoloration, place a mat under the unit to extend to the front 30 “.

Model RCE-229Awww.rinnaina.com 8
INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS
NOTICE BEFORE INSTALLATION
The heater must be installed by a qualified service person according to this installation instructions.
When used without adequate combustion and ventilation heater air may give off carbon monoxide.
Check your local building codes for the proper method of installation. In the absence of local codes, this heater
installation must conform with American National Standard (National Fuel Gas Code) ANSI Z223.1.
Available from the American National Standards Institute, Inc.,
1430 Broadway, New York, NY 10018, or from the National Fire
Protection Association, Batterymarch Park, Quincy, MA 02269.
All correspondence should refer to Model No., Serial No., and type of gas.
WARNING: Electrical Grounding Instructions
This appliance is equipped with a three-prong (grounding) plug for your protection against shock hazard and should
be plugged directly into a properly grounded three-prong receptacle.
This appliance may be installed in an aftermarket manufactured (mobile) home where not prohibited by state or
local code.
Aftermarket = completion of sale, not for purpose of resale from manufacturer.
This heater shall not be installed in a confined space or unusually tight construction unless provisions are provided
for adequate combustion and ventilation air.
The National Fuel Gas Code ANSI Z223.1 defines a confined space as a space whose volume is less than 50 cubic
feet per 1,000 Btu per hour (4.8m3 per kW) of the aggregate input rating of all appliances installed in that space and
an unconfined space as a space whose volume is not less than 50 cubic feet per 1,000 Btu per hour (4.8m3 per kW)
of the aggregate input rating of all appliances installed in that space.
Rooms communicating directly with the space in which the appliances are installed, through openings not furnished
with doors, are considered a part of the unconfined space.
The following formula can be used to determine the
maximum heater rating per the definition of unconfined
space:
BTU/HR = (L1 +L2)Ft X (W)Ft X (H) Ft X 1000
50
Consider two connecting rooms with an open area
between, with the following dimensions:
BTU/HR = (15 1/2+12) X (12) X (8) X 1000
50
= 52800 BTU/HR
If there is a door between the two rooms that can be
closed the calculation must be based only on the room
with the heater.
BTU/HR = (15 1/2) X (12) X (8) X 1000
50
= 29760 BTU/HR
WARNING: If the area in which the heater may be operated is smaller than that defined as an unconfined space or if
the building is of unusually tight construction, provide adequate combustion and ventilation air by one of the
methods described in the National Fuel Gas Code, ANSI Z223.1, Section 5.3 or applicable local codes.

Model RCE-229A 800-621-94199
Unusually tight construction is defined as construction where:
a) Walls and ceilings exposed to the outside atmosphere have a continuous water vapor retarder with a
rating of 1 perm (6X10-11kg per pa-sec-m2) or less with openings gasketed or sealed, and
b) Weather stripping has been added on openable windows and doors, and
c) Caulking or sealants are applied to areas such as joints around window and door frames, between sole
plates and floors, between wall-ceiling joints, between wall panels, at penetrations for plumbing,
electrical, and gas lines, and at other openings.
LOCATION AND CLEARANCES
1. The minimum clearances from the combustible materials areas follows:
2 inches from top
2 inches from back
2 inches from side
30 inches from front
0 inches from bottom
2. This heater may be installed on combustible flooring. When the heater is installed directly on carpeting,
tile or other combustible material other than wood flooring, the heater shall be installed on a metal or
wood panel extending the full width and depth of the heater.
3. Adequate clearances for accessibility for purposes of servicing and proper operation must be provided.
4. Adequate clearances around air openings must be provided.
5. Right and left sides are determined when facing the front.
6. Do not install in areas where curtains, drapes, clothing, or other moving flammables are within 12 inches
of this unit.
7. This unit is designed to mount directly to a wall with optional wall mounting kit. See page 24 for part No.
of wall mounting kit.
8. Make certain of adequate combustion and ventilation air.
9. Do not oversize the heater to the room.
GAS CONNECTION
1. The gas supply line shall be gas-tight, sized and so installed as to provide a supply of gas sufficient to
meet the maximum demand of the heater without loss of pressure.
2. A shut off valve (or appliance connector valve) should be installed in the upstream of the gas line to
permit servicing.
3. Flexible pipe and any appliance connector valve used for gas piping shall be types approved by
nationally recognized agencies.
INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS

Model RCE-229Awww.rinnaina.com 1 0
4. Any compound used on the threaded joint of gas piping shall be a type which resists the action of
liquefied petroleum gas.
5. Supplied gas pressure must be within the limits shown in the specifications.
6. After completion of gas pipe connections, all joints including the heater must be checked for
gas-tightness by means of leak detector solution, soap and water, or an equivalent nonflammable
solution, as applicable.
CAUTION: Since some leak test solutions, including soap and water, may cause corrosion
or stress cracking, the piping shall be rinsed with water after testing, unless it has been
determined that the leak test solution is noncorrosive.
7 The appliance and its appliance main gas valve must be disconnected from the gas supply piping system
during any pressure testing of that system at test pressures in excess of 1/2 psi (3.5kPa).
The appliance must be isolated from the gas supply piping system by closing its equipment shut-off valve
during any pressure testing of the gas supply piping system at test pressures equal to or less than 1/2 psi
(3.5kPa).
8. A valve supplied must be installed on back of unit at time of installation. This is for compliance to ANSI
standard Z21.11.2. Valve is packaged with unit.
MANUAL VALVE
CLOSED OPEN
9. After completing pipework, secure the heater to the floor. Use the two screws provided, as shown in
the drawing. To prevent deforming base plate, do not over torque screws.
INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS