Suburban SW12D User manual

INSTALLATION AND OPERATION MANUAL
DIRECTVENT
@
GAS WATER HEATER
DIRECT SPARK IGNITION (DSI)
MODELS
SW12D l SW12DE aSW12DEM
@@
SWIGD l SWIGDE l SWIGDEM
FOR INSTALLATION IN RECREATIONAL
VEHICLES AND MOBILE HOUSING
AN ODORANT IS ADDED TO THE GAS USED BY THlS WATER HEATER.
INSTALLER:AFFIX THESE INSTRUCTIONSTO OR ADJACENTTO WATER HEATER.
OWNER: RETAINTHESE INSTRUCTIONSAND WARRANTY FOR FUTURE REFERENCE.
ALL TECHNICALAND WARRANTY QUESTIONS SHOULD BE DIRECTEDTO THE COMPANY
LISTED ON THE WARRANTY, OR RATING PLATEWHICH CAME WITH YOUR WATER HEATER.
ml Suburban
SUBURBAN MANUFACTURINGCOMPANY
676 BroadwayStreet
Dayton,Tennessee 37321
Manufacturing Company 423-775-2131
a dwhon of AIRXCEL. Inc.
Fax: [phone]
FORYOUR SAFETY
WHAT TO DO IF YOU SMELL GAS
DO NOTTRY TO LIGHTANY APPLIANCE.
DO NOT TOUCH ANY ELECTRIC SWITCH: DO NOT USE ANY PHONE IN YOUR
VEHICLE.
IMMEDIATELYCALL YOUR GAS SUPPI-IER FROMA NEIGHBOR'S PHONE. FOLLOW
'THE GAS SUPPLIER'S INSTRUCl'IONS.
IFYOU CANNOT REACHYOUR GAS SUPPLIER, CALL THE FIRE DEPARTMENT.
FREEZEWARNING
DRAIN HEATER IF SUBJECTTO FREEZINGTEMPERATURES.
WARNING: IMPROPER INSTALLATION, ADJUSTMENT, AL'TERAl'ION, SERVICE OR
MAINTENANCECANCAUSE INJURYORPROPERTY DAMAGE.REFERTO'THIS MANUAL.
FORASSISTANCEORADDITIONAL INFORMATION,CONSULTA QUALIFIEDINSTALLER,
SERVICEAGENCY OR THE GAS SUPPLIER.
FORYOUR SAFETY
DO NOTSTOREOR USEGASOLINEOR OTHERCOMBUSTIBLEMATERIALSOR LIQUIDS
NEAR OR ADJACENT TO 'THIS HEATER OR ANY OTHER APPLIANCE. THlS APPLIANCE
SHALLNOTBEINSTALLEDINANY LOCATIONWHEREFLAMMABLELIQUIDSORVAPORS
ARE LIKELY TO BE PRESENT.

INSTALLATIONREQUIREMENTS
WARNlNGl lnstallatlon ofthlsappllance mustbemadeInaccordance wlth
thewrltten InstructlonsprovldedInthls manual. Noagent, representatlve
or employee of Suburban or other person has the authority to change,
modlfy or walve any provlslon of the Instructlons contalned In thls
manual.
CAUTION: Ifposslble, donotInstallthe water heater to where the vent can
be covered orobstructed when any door on the traller lo opened. If thls lo
not posslble, then the travel of the door must be restrlcted In order to
providea6" mlnlmumclearance betweenthewaterheaterventandanydoor
whenever the door lo opened.
CAUTION: Dueto the dlfferences In vlnyl sldlng, this appllance should not
beInstalledon
vlnylsldlng without flrst consulting withthe manufacturer of
the sldlng or cuttlng the siding away from the area around the appllance
vent.
CAUTION: In any lnstallatlon In whlch the vent of thls appliance can be
covered duetothe constructlon ofthe RV orsome special feature ofthe RV
such as sllde out, pop-up etc., always Insure that the appllance cannot be
operated by settlng the thermostat to the posltlve "OFF" posltlon and
shuttlng off all
electrical and gas supply to the appllance.
CAUTION: Donotlnstallthls appllance to where the vent terminates below
a slide-out. Thls appllance Isnotto beInstalled underanyoverhang. Itmust
befree and clear of any type overhang.
This installation must conform with the requirements of the authority having
jurisdiction or in the absence of such requirements with the latest edition of the
National Fuel Gas Code ANSl 2223.1; and the latest edition of the American
National Standard for Recreational Vehicles-50lC. In Canada the installation
should conform with the following standards.
A. For installation in Recreational Vehicle
1. Gas
- CSA standard CSA 2240.4.2 Installation Requirements for Propane
Appliances and Equipment in Recreations Vehicles.
2. Electrical
- CSA standard C22.2 No. 14812240.6.2 Electrical Requirements
for Recreational Vehicles.
3. Plumbing - CSA standard CSA 2240.3.2 Plumbing Requirements for
Recreational Vehicles.
B. For installation in Moblle Housing
1. Gas
- CSA standard CSA 2240.4.1 Installation Requirements for Gas
Burning Appliances and Equipment in Mobile Homes.
2. Electrical
- CSA standard CSA C22.1 Canadian Electrical Code Part 1.
3. Plumbing - CSA standard CSA 2240.3.1 Plumbing Requirements for Mobile
Homes.
Theapplianceshallbedisconnectedfrom the gassupply pipingsystem duringany
pressure testing of the system.
The appliance and its gas connections shall be leak tested before placing the
appliance in operation.
All air for combustion must be supplied from outside the structure. Air for
combustion must not be supplied from occupied spaces.
INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS
Minimum clearance from combustible construction on sides, top, floor and
rear
= 0 inches. Provide room for access to rear of heater for servicing.
Provide an opening flush with floor in outerwall ofcoach as shown. Wall of coach
should beframed as shown in Figure 1. Maintain inside dimensions listed below.
Do not install on carpet unless the carpet is covered by a metal or wood shield
covering the entire area underneath the water heater. If you prefer, you may cut
away the carpet from this area.
INSTALLATIONUSINGFLUSH MOUNT FRAME & DOOR
(See Flgure 2 for Illustration)
A. Position heater into framedopening as illustrated. Slide unit into opening until
the front of the control housing is flush with the exterior coach skin.
B. Secure the control housing to the coach wall (framed opening) at the top and
INNER COACH WALL7
WALL
sides of control housing compartment using screws or other suitable fasteners.
Recess the screws or fasteners back far enough from the front edge of control
housing
(approximately 1 112")in order to clear the flange on door frame. The door
frame, when installed, must not overlap onto screw or other fastener head. If due
to the wall thickness, it is notpossible to secure the water heaterwithout covering
the fastener head with the door frame, it is important to not over tighten the
fastener and distort the control housing. Over tighteningof thefastener may cause
water heater leaks between the control housing and the door frame.
NOTE: Caulk around screw or fastener heads to assure water tight seal
C. Installchocks, one on each side of water heater, as illustrated in Figure 1A.
D. On mesa or yoder type sidewalls, flatten the wall area around the opening
E. Caulk around framed opening (trailer skin) as illustrated.
F. Caulk around door frame using 2 beads of silicone caulking (or suitable
caulking)
- one on flange to seal to control housing and one around back side of
frame to seal to coach skin. (See detail A in illustration.)
G. Insert door frame into control housing and secure with four (4) No. 8-15 x
3 112" screws provided.
H. To installdoor, place the two holesin the bottom ofthe door over thedoor plns
on Ihe frame. Close the door so that the latch protrudes through the slot in the
door. Turn latch 90 degrees to fasten door.
I. The module board on models SW 12D, SW I6Dand SW 12DE, SW 16DE is not
secured to the water heater. It is to be permanently mounted by the ~nstaller.
The module board must be mounted to where it is accessible for service yet out
ofway of children. It should be located in a place where it cannot be subjected to
moisture, cleaning chemicals, flammable vapors and liquids, etc.
The board and all wiring to the board must be protected in order to prevent
damages and accidental contact with these parts. The module board may be
mounted with two (2) No. 6 x 518 screws or other suitable hardware.
MAKINGWATER CONNECTIONS
A. Water connections are made at the rear of the water heater. Refer to Figure
3forallmodelsexceptSWI2DEM.SW 16DEM.ForSW12DEM.SW16DEM.refer
to Figure 5. Connect the hot and cold water lines to the 112' female pipe fitting
provided on rear of tank. These fittings are marked 'HOT'and 'COLD'. NOTE:
Inside each fitting is a plastic fill tube. Its purpose is to enhance water circulation.
DO NOT REMOVE PLASTIC FILL TUBE.
IMPORTANT: Use a pipe thread compound suitable for potable water or pipe
thread tape on all connections to assure they will not leak.
B. Forease ofremoval, it is suggested that a pipe union beinstalledin eachwater
line.
C. Fill tank with water. Open both hot and cold water faucets to expel air from
tank. When tank is filled and water flows from faucets, close both faucets and
check all connections for leaks.
CAUTION: Ifyou usealr pressure to check for leaks, the pressure mustnot
exceed
30 PSI (In accordancewlth 4-9.1.1 of ANSl A119.2).
NOTE: After leak testing, drain water from tank
MAKING GAS CONNECTIONS
A. Connect a 318" gas supply line to the 318 flare fitting at gas valve located in the
control housing. When making the gas connection, hold the gas fitting on the
valve w~tha wrench when tightening the flare nut. Failure to hold fitting secure
could result in a gas leak due to fitting being damaged. NOTE: Itwill be necessary
to removethe grommet from the control housing, make the gas
connection atthe
valve, then reinstall grommet.
WARNlNGl ItIslmperatlve thatgrommet and gas llnethrough grommet be
caulked alr tlght. If not
tlghtly sealed, molsture and potentlal harmfulflue
products could vent through opening and Into llvlng area of trailer. (See
I Flgure 6.) I
B. Turn on gas and check allfittings and connections for leaks, using a soap and
water solution. Correct even the slightest leak
immediately.
WARNlNGl Donotuse an open flame to check for leaks
WATER HEATER AS VIEW FROM INSIDE R.V.
FRAMED OPENING
FLOOR
USECURE CHOCKS. ONE ON EACH SIDE, TIGHTLY AGAINST WATER HEATER XKET
*ND FASTEN TO VEHICLE FLOOR TO PREVENT MOVEMENT. CHOCKS SHOULD BE
APPROXIMATELY
2. X 2' X 6'
Figure 1A
Flgure 1

MODELS
SWIZD,
SWIBD,
SW12DE
SW16DE
FWEDOPENIMG
(SEE FIGURENO. I)
DC JUNCTION BOX
MODELSSWKD. DE
FRAMEDOPENlNO
CAULK AROUNDOPENING
PUCESCREWOR SUITABLE FASTENER
AS SHOWN. DOOR FRAME WHEN INSTALLED
MUSTNOT OVERUPONTO
SCREW HWOR
AC JUNCTIONBOX
MOOELS: SW12 DE
SPECULSCREW
CONTROLHOW1
MOUNTINGSCREWS (SPECIAL)
coma HOUSING
CAULK ALL THE WAYAROUND DOOR FRAMETO
SEAL FWEWATER TIGHT (USETWOBWS
AS SHOWN INDETAILA)
FLUSH
MOUNT oooR WE
wltn C.~S~(ET
HW IN WOR
FOR mm PIN
FLUSHMOUNT DOOR
Flgure 2
Flgure 3
ACCESS
BOARD
-CONTROL HOUSING
R AID
LJUNCTION BOX
12 V.D.C.
MODEL SWIZDEM, SW16DEM
Flgure 5
-
ILLUSTRATED SHOVING
INSIDE
OF HOUSING
GROMMET
/ ,kJJ~h
(GAS INLET)^ , LL J'J)
GAS VALVE
LK AND SEAL GROMMET (INCLUDING
AND TUBING) ALL AROUND AIR TIGHT SLIT
Flgure
6
3

MAKING ELECTRICAL CONNECTIONS
12 VOLTS D.C.
A. Applicable to following models: SWIPD, SWIGD. SWIPDE, SWI6DE.
SWIPDEM and SWIGDEM.
B. Refer to Figure 2 for location of D.C. junction box on models SWIPD.
SW IGD.SW 12DE and SWIGDE. Refer to Figure 5 for locationof D.C. junction
box on modelSW l2DEM or SW IGDEM.
C. Theelectricalconnectionsmustbemadeinaccordance with localcodesand
regulations. In the absence of local codes and regulations, refer to the latest
edition of the National Electrical Code ANSI\NFPA No. 70.
In Canada, the electrical installation should conform with CSA standard CSA
C22.2 No. 14812240.6.2 ElectricalRequirements for RecreationalVehicles and
CSA C22.1 Canadian Electrical Code Part 1 when installing the unit in
recreational vehicles and mobile homes respectively.
D. Make the 12 Volt D.C. electrical connections following the wiring diagram
illustrated in Figure 7.
If the powersupply is to befrom a convertor, we recommend that the converter
system bewired in parallelwith the battery. This will serve two purposes:
1.
Provide a constant voltage supply
2. Filter any A.C. spikes or volt surges
We recommend insulatedterminals be used for all electrical connections.
----.-----
'2
".D.c..,oLy"-" .,---.-" -------
WIRE AS SUPPLlEDWITHTHE WATER
1
HEATERMUST BE REPLACED. ITMUST BE REPLACEDWlTH 18 GA.,
105'C WlRE OR IT'S EQUIVALENT.
tg:
SWITCH ;
BOX
LlGHl , ( - ) ( -I-I- FACTORYWIRING)
(-1 ( - FIELDWIRWG)
I
DISCONNECTPOWER SUPPLY BEFORESERVICINGTHERMOSTAT
AND HI-LIMIT UNDERACCESSCOVER.
CAUTION:
W NOT HI-POT(DIELECTIC HIGHVOLTAGE ------- TEST)THIS
Figure 8
120V.A.C. ONLY
DISCONNECTPOWER SUPPLY BEFOREREMOVING COVER
INSTALLATIONOF MOTOR AID HEAT EXCHANGER
SUBURBAN MANUFACTURINGCOMPANY. DAYTON,TENNESSEE
120VA.C SINGLE PHASE
- 1440WAlT ELEMENT - 80 CYCLE
TOTAL CONNECTEDWAlTS
= 1440-AMPS = 12
A. Place copper 'Y"s in heater as shown in Figure
9.
6. Secure hoses to "Y"s with hose clamps.
C. Attach hose from motor-aid heat exchanger to 'Y"s.
D. Secure hoses to motor-aid and 'Y"s with clamps.
E. Check all connections for water leaks and proper water circulation through
motor-aid heat exchanger, with engine running.
The system should be checked annually for deterioration of heater hose and
hose connections. Replace as needed.
FLOOR
\\
HI-
W
-0 GROUNDINGSCREW
IFANY OF THE ORIGINAL WlRE AS SUPPLIEDWlTH THE HEATER
MUST
BE REPLACED, IT MUST BE REPLACED WITH 14 GA. 105-c WIRE OR Irs
EQUIVALENT.
SI UN DES FILSELECTIQUES LIVRES AVEC LECHAUFFE-EAUDOlT
ETRE REMPLACE.UTiLlSERA CET EFFETUN FIL 14 GA. 105' OU
EQUIVALENT.
340468
CODE
BK
W
UNITAFTER INSTALLATION.TO DO SOMAY CAUSE COMPONENT
DAMAGEAND VOIDS WARRANMOF WATER HEATER.
Wt
--.--"--*"+---"-.*-.-""* . w .. ~.-."".m~"
Figure 7
J
COLOR
BLACK
WHITE
HEAT EXCHANGER
MAKING ELECTRICAL CONNECTIONS
120 VOLTS A.C.
A. Applicable to following models SWIZDE, SWIGDE. SWIZDEM and
SWIGDEM.
B. Refer to Figure 2 for location of A.C. junction box on models SW 12DE or
SW IGDE. Refer to Figure 5 for A.C. junction box on models SW IPDEM or
SW IGDEM.
C. Theelectricalconnectionsmustbemadein accordance with localcodesand
regulations. In the absence of local codes and regulations, refer to the latest
edition of the National ElectricalCode ANSllNFPA No. 70.
In Canada, the electrical installation should conform with CSA standard CSA
C22.2 No. 14812240.6.2. Electricalrequirements for Recreational Vehicles and
CSA C22.1 Canadian Electrical Code Part 1 when installing the unit in
recreational vehicles and mobile homes respectively.
D. Check rating plate and wiring diagram (Figure 8) before proceeding. Install
a fused safety switch or circuit breaker of adequate capacity between heater
and electrical power source. Attach the black and white wires from the fused
switch orbreakerto correspondingcolored wiresin heaterjunction box.A green
wire from a well grounded source must be attached to the green nut in the
junction box.
CAUTION: Beforeapplyingthe 1ZOVAC powertothewaterheaterjunctlon
box, besure the switch for electric eiement is inthe "OFF" posltion.
WARNING1Beforetheswitchfortheeiectrlceiement Isturned tothe"ON"
posltlon, the water heater tank must be filled with water. See "Safety
Warnings".
Flgure 9
MAINTENANCE
In which it was shlpped from the factory or if the appliance Is not used
solely for Its intended purpose or if appliance is not maintained in
accordance with the instructions in this manual, then the rlsk of a fire
andlor the productlon of carbon monoxide exists which can cause
WARNING: Foryour safety, allrepairsshouldbeperformed byyourdealer
or a
qualified service person.
A. Main Burner: Do not allow the burner to burn with a yellow flame, because
sooting will occur. (See Safety Warnings).
If the burnerflame isyellow and has an erratic pattern, shutunit down and contact
a qualified service agency. Do not continue operating unit with improper burner
flame. (See Figure 10 for correct and incorrect burner flame appearance.)

B. Periodically inspect unit for soot. If soot is present anywhere on water heater,
immediately shut unit down and contactyour dealer or aqualified service person.
Soot is a sign of incomplete combustion and must be corrected before operating
water heater. Areas to check would include:
I. Check for an obstruction in burner or the flue box.
2. Check the screen in the door lo see that no foreign material has accumulated
to prevent flow of combustion and ventilating air.
3. Check to be sure there is noflame presentat burner orifice or burnerwhenever
main gas valve is closed. This can be checked by turning the OFF\ON switch to
the 'OFF" position.
C. Frequent checks should be made of the grommet on the gas inlet to assure
tight seal. (See 'Making Gas Connections").
D. Periodically check wiring and wlre connection to be sure wiring is not
damagedlfrayed and lhal all terminals and connections are tight and in
compliance with codes (See 'Making Wire Connections").
SAFETY WARNINGS
WARNlNGl ItIs lmperatlvethat the water heater tank be fllled with water
before operatlngthe water heater. Operatlon of the water heater without
water In the tank may result Indamage to the tank andlor controls. Thls
type of damage Is notcovered by the llmlted warranty.
WARNlNGl Hydrogengas may resultIfyou have not used thls heater for
two weeks or more. HYDROGEN GAS IS EXTREMELY FLAMMABLE. To
reducethe rlskofInjuryunderthesecondltlons, open the hotwater faucet
for several mlnutes at the kltchen slnk before you use any electrlcal
appllance connected to the hotwater system. If hydrogen Is present, you
probably wlll hear an unusual sound such as alr escaplng through the
plpe as the water beglns to flow.
Hydrogen gas maybe present evenafter water has been dralned from the
tank. Openfaucet at slnk andallow system to vent for severalminutes (5-
10 mlnutes).
I
Do not smoke or have any open flame near the open faucet. Do not
attempt to light pllotor maln burner. On DSI models, be sure the swltch
I
Is "OFF".
I
Should overheating occur, or the gas supply fall to shut off, shut off the
manualgasvalve totheappllancebeforeshuttlngoffthe electrlcalsupply.
Do not use thls appllance If any part has been submerged under water.
lmmedlately call a quallfled servlce technlclan to inspect the appliance
andto replace anypart ofthe controlsystem andanygas controlthat has
been submerged under water.
Do not alter the operation of your water heater nor change the
deslgnlconstructlonofyourwater heater.
Accessories arebelngmarketed
for RV products whlch we do not recommend. For your safety,
I only factory authorized parts are to be used on your water heater.
PerlodlcallyInspectthe vent for obstructions orpresence of soot. Soot Is
formed whenever combustlon Is Incomplete.Thls la your visual warnlng
that the water heater Isoperating Inan unsafe manner. Ifsoot Is present,
lmmedlately shut the water heater down and contact your dealer or a
quallfledservlce person.
When conslderlng add-on rooms, porch or patio, attentlon mustbe given
to the ventlng of your water heater. Foryour safety, do not termlnate the
vent on your water heater lnslde add-on rooms, screen porch or onto
patlos. Doing so wlll result In products of combustlon belng vented Into
the rooms or occupied areas.
Never operate the heater If you smell gas. Do not assume that the smell
of gas Inyour RV Is normal. Any tlme you detect the odor of gas, It Is to
beconsideredllfethreatening andcorrected Immediately. Extlngulsh any
open flames lncludlng cigarettes and evacuate all persons from the
vehicle. Shut off gas supplyat LP gas bottle. (See Safety notice on front
cover of thls manual.
NOTE: Always open both the cold and hot water faucets when fllling
vehicle water tank toallow air pockets tobe forced outofthe water heater.
When water flows from the heater faucets, close both faucets.
WARNlNGl Do notstore or use
combustible materials or llqulds near or
adjacent tothls heater. The appllance shallnotbeInstalledInanylocatlon
where flammable llqulds or vapors are llkely to be present.
Besure the power
Is"OFF" tothe water heaterignitlonsystem durlngany
type of refueling and whlle vehlcle Is Inmotlon or belng towed.
The thermostat onyour water heater Is not adjustable. ItIsa temperature
sensing llmlt designed to malntain a water temperature of I3O'F (54'C).
Water temperatures over 125.F (49'C) can cause severe burns Instantly
or death from scalds; therefore, be careful when uslng hot water.
Children, disabled and elderlyareathighest risk of belngscalded.Always
feel water before bathln or showerin
.
.
CORRECT
-
INCORRECT
BLUEOR BLUEJORANGE
WELL DBNED PAlTERN
YELLOW OR YELLOW1
ORANGE
ERRATIC PAlTERN
Flgure 10
HIGH ALTITUDE DERATION
Suburban's water heaters are certified by nationally recognized testing
laboratories for operation without modifications at alt~tudesup to 4.500 feet.
Operation above this elevation may require derating by 4 percent for every 1.000
feet above sea level. As an example, at 8.000 feet, the water heater should be
derated approximately
32 percent.
If the unit is not properly derated, lack of sufficient oxygen for combustion may
produce improper burner operation. Pilot outage caused by burner I~ft-offor
sooting from a yellow burner may occur indicating the poss~b~lityof carbon
monoxide. You may also notice a lack of efficiency In heating the water because
of incomplete combustion of the burner at these higher altitudes.
Consult with the local gas company, your dealer, an RV service agency or
Suburban Manufacturing Company for proper derating of the unit. Change-out of
the orifice (derating)should be done by the dealer or a qualified service agency.
NOTE: It is important that once the unit has returned to lower elevation (below
4,500 feet) this high altitude deration and pilot adjustments (if equipped) be
reversed for proper operation of the unit.
ANODE PROTECTION
The tank in this water heater is protected by a magnesium or aluminum anode to
prolong the life of the tank by absorbing the
corrosive act~onof hot water. Under
normal use, the anode rod will deteriorate and because ofthis, we recommend it
be replaced yearly. NOTE: Water with high levels of iron andlor sulfate will
increase the rate of deterioration; therefore, more frequent replacement may be
required. If anode rod is mostly eaten away, replace it with a new one. (See
Figure 11)
To prevent a water leak when replacing the anode rod, a pipe thread sealant
approved for potable water (such as Teflon Tape) must be applied to the threads
of the anode rod. Proper appltcation of a thread sealant will not ~nterferewith the
anode's tank protection.
Operating the water heater without properanode protection will decrease tank life
and will void yourwarrantyonthe tank.NOTE:Tank isdrained byremoving anode
rod (See 'Drain and Storage" instruclions).
To extend anode life, dram water from tank whenever RV is not being used.Avold
any extended time of non use with water in tank.
Also, refer to section on winterizing.
WARNlNGl Do not replace the anode rod wlth any non-Suburban
accessory part, such as an "add-on" electric heatingelement. Items such
as these are not approved to be lnstalled In Suburban products. They
could create an unsafe condltlon and wlll also vold allwarranties.
NEWANODE ROD
C YYll
-
- ANODE ROD
75% CORRODED ANODE ROD
Flgure 11

PRESSURE RELIEF VALVE
The temperature and pressure reliefvalve is designed to open if the temperature
of the waterwithin the heater reaches 210°F, or if the water pressure in the heater
reaches 150 pounds. Recreational vehicle watersystems are closed systemsand
duringthe water heating cycle the pressure build-up in the water system will reach
150 pounds. When this pressure is reached, the pressure relief valve will open
andwater will drip from the valve. This dripping will continue until the pressure is
reduced to below 150 pounds, and the valve closes. This condition is normaland
does not indicate a defective relief valve.
'THERMOSTAT AND MANUAL RESET
MODELS SWl2DE and SWl2DEM
SWl6DEand SWl6DEM
The modelwater heaters listed above are equipped with a high temperature limit
as a cut-off device. Temperature above 180'F will cause manual reset button to
trip shutting down the electric element.
To activate element, the water temperature must be below 11O0F, push reset
button to re-activate the electric element.
WARNlNGl Donotplace a valve betweenthe rellet valve and the tank. Do
notplugthe relletvalve under any clrcum8tances.
WATER WEEPING OR DRIPPING FROM PRESSURE
RELIEF VALVE
You mayexperiencewater weeping or drippingfrom yourwater heater's Pressure
andTemperature (P
8 T) ReliefValve when yourwater heater isoperating. Water
weeping or dripping from the P
8 T Valve does not always mean the P 8 T Valve
is defective. As water is heated, it expands. The water system in a recreational
vehicle is a closed system and does notallow for the expansion of heated water.
When the pressure of the water system exceeds the relieving point of the P
8 T
Valve, the valve will relieve the excess pressure.
Suburban recommends that a check valve not be installed directly at the inlet to
the water heater tank. This will increase weeping of the pressure relief valve.
WARNlNGl Do notremove or plug the rellet valve.
One way to reduce the frequency of this occurrence is to maintam an air pocket
at the top ofthe water heater tank. This air pocket will form in the tank by design.
However, it will be reduced over time by the everyday use of your water heater.
To replenishthis air pocket:
I. Turn offwater heater.
2. Turn off cold water supply line.
3. Open a faucet in the RV.
4. Pull out on the handle of the Pressure Relief (P 8 T)Valve and allow water
to flow from the valve until it stops.
5. Release handle on P 8 T Valve - it should snap closed.
6. Close faucet and turn on cold water supply; as the tank fills, the air pocket
will develop.
Repeatthis procedure as often as neededto reduce thefrequency of theweeping
of the P
8 T Valve. Ifthe weeping persists after following this procedure, you may
electto installan expansion or accumulator tank in the cold water line between the
tank and check valve to relieve the pressure caused by thermal expansion.
Contact your local dealer for assistance.
'THERMOSTAT AND MANUAL RESET
MODELS: SWl2D, SW12DE, and SWl2DEM
SWIbD, SW16DE, and SWl6DEM
The modelwater heaters listed above are equipped with a high temperature limit
as a cut-off device. Temperature above 180'F will cause manual reset button to
trip shutting down main burner.
Toactivate burner, thewater temperature mustbebelow 1
1O0F,push reset button
to re-activate burner.
rRESET BUTTON
12 V.D.C. T-STAT
HI-LIMIT
Figure 12
120 V.A.C. T-STAT
HI-LIMIT
Flgure 13
DRAININGAND STORAGE INSTRUCTIONS
If RV is to be stored during winter months, the water heater must be drained to
prevent damage from freezing.
I. Turn offelectrical power to water heater either at the swltch from the electrical
element or a breaker.
2. Shut off gas supply to water heater
3. Turn off pressure pump on water system.
4. Open both hot and cold water faucets.
5. Remove anode rod from tank.
6. Follow RV manufacturer's instructions for draining entire water system.
NOTE: Becertainto refillwater heaterwithwaterand remove all air from tank and
lines before re-lighting or before turning on electrical power.
ODOR FROM HOT WATER SYS'TEM
Odorfrom the hotwater system IS nota service problem and manywater suppl~es
contain sufficient amounts of sulphur to produce an odor. The odor is similar to
rotten eggs and is often referred to as "sulphur water". It is not harmful
- only
unpleasant to smell. Sulphur water can be caused by a chemical action or by
bacteria. The solution to eliminate is chlorination ofthe water system. Add about
six
(6) ounces of chlorinated common household liquid bleach to each 10gallons
in the water tank. Then run the chlorinated water throughout the system, opening
each faucet one at a time until you smellthe chlorine. Let the RV sit for afew days
and the chlorine should take care of the problem.Then you will needto take care
of the chlorine. Remove the chlorine by flushing the system with fresh water. This
may take several attempts. You may consider adding a filtering system that
removes chlorine and prevents sulphur water. If the sulphur or rotten egg smell
continues,flush thesystem once again as described above and replaceanode rod
as necessary.
REMOVINGWATER HEATER
I. Shut off gas supply and disconnect gas supply line from water heater
2. On all Electric Models, disconnect 120 V.A.C. supply at junct~onbox mounted
on heater.
3. On all DSI Models, disconnect 12 V.D.C. power supply at junction box on
heater.
4. On Models SW12D. SW 16D, SW 12DE and SW 16DE disconnect all wires at
module board.
5. Shut off water supply. Drain water from tank following instructions under
'Draining and Storage'.
6. Disconnect hot and cold water l~nesfrom water heater.
7. Remove screws or nails securing control housing to framed opening.
8. Slide heater out. To retnstall, follow instructions in manual under 'Installation
Instructions'.
WINTERIZING
If your water heater plumbing system equipped with a bypass kit, use it to close
off the water heater, drain thewater heatercompletelyand leave the water heater
closed off (out of the system) in the bypass position parlicularly if you are
introducing antifreeze into the plumbing system. Antifreeze can be very corrosive
to the anode rod creating premature failure and heavy sediment in the tank. If the
plumbing system is not equipped with a bypass kit, and you intend to winterize by
adding antifreeze to the system, remove the anode rod (storing it for the winter)
and replace it with a
314" drain plug.

FOR YOUR SAFETY READ BEFORE LIGHTING
WARNlNGl Ifthe user ofthis appllance falls to maintainItInthe condltlon In whlch Iswas shipped from the factory or Ifthe appllance Isnot used solely
for Its Intended purpose orIfappllance Is not malntalned Inaccordance wlth the lnstructlon In thls manual, then the risk of a flre andlor the production
of carbon monoxide exists whlch can cause personal Injury, property damage or loss of llfe.
OPERATING AND LIGHTING INSTRUCTIONS
WARNlNGl If you do not follow these Instructions exactly, a flre or
explosion mayresult
causlng propertydamage, personalInjury orlossof
Ilfe.
WARNING: Before operating water heater, be sure tank Is filled wlth
water. See "Safety Warnings".
A. This appliance does not have a pilot. It is equipped with an ignition device
which automatically lights the burner. Do not try to light the burner byhand.
8. BEFORE LIGHTING smell all around the appliance area for gas. Be sure to
smell next to the floor because some gas is heavier than air and will settle on the
floor.
WHAT TO DO IF YOU SMELL GAS
Do not try to light any appliance.
Do not touch any electric 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.
C. This is an automatic gas valve, no adjustments are necessary. Do not
attempt to repair the gas valve. This may result in a fire or explosion.
D. Do not use this appliance if any part has been under water. Immediately call
a qualified service technician to inspect the appliance and to replace any part of
the control system and any gas control which has been under water.
E. Before operating water heater, check the location of the vent to make sure ~t
will not be blocked by the opening of any door on the trailer. If it can be blocked,
do notoperate the water heater with the door open.
OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
1. STOP! Read the safety information provided
2. Turn off all electric power to the appliance.
3. Turn 'OFF' gas supply.
4. Wait f~veminutes for gas to clear the area. If you smell gas then STOP!
Follow Instruct~onsin item B of the safety
information. If you don't smell gas, go
to next step.
5. Turn 'ON" gas supply.
6. Turn on electrical power to the appl~ance.
7. Turn switch to 'ON" position. If the burner does not light, the system will
automatically attempt two more tries for ignit~onbefore lock-out. NOTE: Each
ignitioncycle will have a
15 second purge before spark cycle if system is a three
try system.
8. If lockout occurs before main burner lights, turn switch to 'OFF", wait five
seconds and turn switch to 'ON" position. This will restart the ignitioncycle. The
first start-up of the heater may require several ignition cycles before all air is
purged from the gas lines.
If the burner
will not come on, the following items should be checked before
calling a servlce person.
I. Switch turned off.
2. Gas supply to heater is empty or turned off.
3. Reset button on ECO IS tr~pped.
OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
FOR UNITSWITH ELECTRIC ELEMENT
Electrlcwater healers are designed tooperate with aminlmumamount ofservice
problems; however, proper operation and care is essential.
By far the most common trouble with electric water heaters results from
energizing the water heater before it is filled with water. Even brief operation of
the electric element without water in the tank will burn-out the electric heating
element.
To energize the electric heating element, turn the switch to 'on'. The switch is
located behind the water heater door in the lower left corner of the control
housing. The water temperature will be regulated by the thermostat.
TO TURN OFF WATER HEATER
I. Turn sw~tchto 'OFF' position
2. Turn off electrical power to the appliance
3. Turn off gas supply.
4. If vehicle is to be stored or heater is going to be turned off while subject to
freez~ng temperature, drain water heater. (See 'Drain~ng and Storage
Instructions.")