Vaughn Hydrastone ME Series Specification sheet

DOMESTIC WATER HEATER
HydrastoneLined
Electric Water Heater
Operation and Installation Manual
(LIMITED WARRANTY AND
TANK REPLACEMENT POLICY)
The following information should be noted at time of installation
and retained for future reference.
Model No._________________________________________________
Serial No. _________________________________________________
Date Installed:______________________________________________
Dealer’s Name:_____________________________________________
Dealer’s Address:___________________________________________

1
GENERAL INFORMATION
PLEASE READ INSTRUCTIONS COMPLETELY
BEFORE INSTALLING WATER HEATER
IMPORTANT OWNER’S RESPONSIBILITY
The Company specifically does not expressly or impliedly warrant the
merchantability or the fitness for any particular purpose or the performance of the
heater within that system, nor does it assume liability for any consequential damage
to general property or other components of the system.
This appliance is designed to store water heated only by the electrical
elements provided, at temperatures of not more than 125F and pressures of not
more than 150 psi. Heat input from any external or additional source will void the
warranty.
The design anticipates the proper installation and care in use of the product.
There is risk of property damage and personal injury inherent in the use of any hot
water system. The Company cannot supervise the installation and therefore makes it
a specific condition of the warranty that the customer will supervise the installation
and use of this product to be sure they are performed in accordance with these
instructions, as well as safe industry guidelines and proper local or national codes.
Generalized instructions and procedures cannot anticipate all situations. For
this reason, only qualified installers should perform the installation. A qualified
installer is a licensed person who has appropriate training and a working knowledge
of the applicable codes, regulations, tools, equipment and methods necessary for
safe installation of an electrical resistance water heater.
An installation checklist has been provided to help the customer ensure that all
procedures for a safe installation have been followed.
If questions regarding installation arise, check with your local plumbing and
electrical inspectors for proper procedures and codes. Local codes take precedence
over instructions in this manual.

2
INDEX
GENERAL INFORMATION.............................................................................. 1
INSTALLATION GUIDELINES........................................................................ 3
INSTALLATION CHECKLIST......................................................................... 7
SERVICE INFORMATION................................................................................ 9
MAINTENANCE................................................................................................ 11
TROUBLESHOOTING..................................................................................... 12
INSTALLATION DIAGRAM / PARTS LOCATION.................................... 13
PARTS LIST ....................................................................................................... 14
WIRING DIAGRAMS....................................................................................... 15
HOW TO OBTAIN SERVICE ASSISTANCE................................................ 17
TEN YEAR LIMITED TANK REPLACEMENT POLICY.......................... 19
*To fully understand the purchaser’s responsibility in installing the water heater,
please read the warranty on the back cover.
P.O. Box 5431 · Salisbury, MA 01952-5431 · 978-462-6683

3
INSTALLATION GUIDELINES
A.INSPECTING AND PREPARING THE HEATER
Do not cover or damage the temperature and pressure relief valve
opening located in the topside of the tank (see Figure I).
B. LOCATION
CAUTION: All tanks will eventually leak at some unpredictable time.
Do not place the heater where there is a risk of property damage in the event
of a leak.
Place the heater on a solid foundation in a clean, dry location.
The heater should be protected from freezing and water lines should be
insulated to reduce energy and water waste.
Leave sufficient room to service the heat exchanger and electrical controls.
Do not install in an area where flammable liquids or combustible vapors are
present.
CAUTION: The heater’s outer jacket is plastic and can melt.
Do not install in close proximity to wood burning stove or other high
temperature apparatus.
NOTE: If Heater is Placed On Blocks To Raise It From The Floor,
Be Sure to Support The Entire Bottom With At Least ¾" Plywood
On The Top Of The Blocks.

4
C. PROTECTION FROM WATER DAMAGE
CAUTION: All water heaters have a risk of leakage at some
unpredictable time. IT IS THE CUSTOMER’S RESPONSIBILITY
TO PROVIDE A CATCH PAN OR OTHER ADEQUATE MEANS,
SO THAT THE RESULTANT FLOW OF WATER WILL NOT
DAMAGE FURNISHINGS OR PROPERTY. (See Figure I).
The warranty provided assures replacement within its terms, but
specifically does not warrant against consequential damage caused by
failure to follow these instructions.
D.TEMPERATURE & PRESSURE RELIEF VALVE
WARNING: A POTENTIAL HAZARD TO LIFE AND
PROPERTY MAY EXIST IN ANY WATER HEATER IF AN
APPROVED TEMPERATURE-AND-PRESSURE RELIEF
VALVE IS NOT PROPERLY INSTALLED.
CAUTION: For protection against excessive pressures and
temperatures in this water heater, install temperature-and-
pressure protective equipment required by local codes, but not
less than a combination temperature-and-pressure relief valve
certified by a nationally recognized testing laboratory that
maintains periodic inspection of production of listed equipment of
materials, as meeting the requirements for Relief Valves and
Automatic Gas Shutoff for Hot Water Supply Systems. ANSI
Z21.22.1971. This valve must be marked with a maximum set
pressure not to exceed the marked maximum allowable working
pressure of the water heater (150psi). Install the valve into an
opening provided and marked for this purpose in the water heater,
and orient it or provide tubing so that any discharge from the
valve will exit only within 6 inches above, or at any distance below
the structural floor and cannot contact any live electrical part. The
discharge opening must not be blocked or reduced in size under
any circumstances.

5
CAUTION: A relief valve is designed to discharge excessively hot
water. THE CUSTOMER IS RESPONSIBLE TO PROTECT
PROPERTY AND PERSONNEL FROM HARM WHEN THE
VALVE FUNCTIONS.
A ¾” NPT brass connection is provided on the topside of the heater for
the field installation of a relief valve (see Figure I).
Care must be taken to be sure that the stem of the pressure and
temperature relief is immersed in the water within the top 6” of the tank.
The drain line must not be concealed or blocked and must be protected
from freezing.
No valve of any kind should be installed between the relief valve and
tank or in the drain line.
E. WATER SUPPLY CONNECTIONS
All water supply fittings on this heater are brass. Do not over tighten or
strip threads.
The cold water fitting is a combination drain and inlet. It is not a shut off
valve.
Provide a shut off valve in the cold water line. Mark for future
emergency use.
Do not apply heat directly to the cold-water inlet.
The hot water outlet is a threaded connection to the tank. Do not over
tighten.
WARNING: Some local codes mandate the use of a backflow
preventer or check valve or pressure-reducing valve. An adequate
expansion tank (or other adequate means) must be installed to
prevent pressure build up or damage from thermal expansion when
a check valve or backflow preventer or pressure-reducing valve is
used. Failure to do so could result in tank leakage and therefore
void the warranty.

6
F. FILLING THE HEATER
CAUTION: Do not put electrical power to the elements until after the
heater is completely filled with water.
Check that the necessary relief valve has been properly installed.
Completely close the drain valve.
Open the highest hot water faucet to allow all air to escape from piping.
Open the valve to the cold water and allow the heater and piping system
to completely fill, as indicated by a steady flow of water from the open
faucet.
G.WIRING CONTROLS
WARNING: The heater elements will be damaged instantly if
energy is supplied before the tank is completely filled with water,
thus voiding any warranty.
A qualified electrician must provide a separate fused branch circuit,
conforming to local or National Electric Codes.
Supply to the heater only the voltage stamped on the rating plate.
Mark the electrical shut off clearly for future emergency use.
Read wiring diagrams before making electrical connections (see Table I)
Field connections with aluminum conductors must use connectors
approved for copper to aluminum connection.
CAUTION: There is a risk of electric shock in an ungrounded service it
is critical that this unit be wired with a power supply that has a service
ground wire available. Be sure to connect the ground wire to the green
ground screw in the junction box.
H.SUPPLEMENTAL HEAT WARNINGS
When a supplemental heat source is connected to the Certified
Household Electric Storage Tank Water Heater, provision must be made
to limit the heat source temperature not to exceed that of the water heater
thermostat setting.
Caution: If the water heater has been retrofitted with supplemental
heating equipment, you must adjust both the thermostat controlling the
supplemental heat source (located in the water piping) and the
thermostat on the water heater (behind the access panel) to the same
temperature. Failure to adjust both thermostats to the same temperature
can cause loss of proper temperature control.

7
INSTALLATION CHECKLIST
A.INSPECTION AND PREPARING THE HEATER
Do not cover T and P relief valve opening.
B. LOCATION
Solid foundation and dry location.
Protect heater water lines from freezing.
Area free of flammable vapors.
Sufficient room to service heater.
C.PROTECTION FROM WATER DAMAGE
Be sure to make provisions to protect area from water damage if a leak should
occur in the tank or any connected fittings.
D.TEMPERATURE & PRESSURE RELIEF VALVE
WARNING: Improper installation will present potential hazard to life and
property.
A T&P Relief Valve with an 8-inch stem should be used
Check to be sure that proper relief valve requirements are met.
Opening on top side.
Valve stem immersed in the water within the top 6” of the tank.
¾” discharge pipe—properly protected from freezing and restrictions.
No valve between tank and relief valve or in drain line.
Provision for hot water discharge from relief valve.
E. WATER SUPPLY CONNECTIONS: (SEE FIGURE I)
Do not over tighten brass threads.
Mark the water shut off for future reference.
Do not apply heat to combination inlet and drain.

8
F. FILLING THE HEATER
Completely fill heater before turning on elements.
Water connections completed and free of leaks.
Check for proper installation of relief valve.
Close drain valve.
Open highest hot water faucet.
Open cold water inlet valve and fill system.
G.WIRING
TANK MUST BE FULL OF WATER BEFORE POWER IS ON.
Separate fused branch circuit (refer to local codes).
Mark the electrical shut off for future reference.
Wiring diagram (see Table I)
Aluminum conductors (see wiring instructions).
Check to see that voltage on rating plate and supply agree.
CAUTION: Unit must be properly grounded.
H. INSTALLATION COMPLETED AND CHECKLIST FILLED OUT
BY____________________________________________________
DATE: ________________________________________________
SPECIAL NOTE: Test of hot water after installation is necessary to be sure
temperature controls are working properly. (See water temperature regulation
information on page 8.)

9
SERVICE INFORMATION
A.Water temperature over 125° F can cause severe
burns instantly or death from scalds.
B. Children, disabled and elderly are at the highest risk
of being scalded.
C.See instruction manual before setting temperature at
the water heater.
D.Feel water before bathing or showering.
E. Temperature limiting valves are available, see
manual.
The temperature of the water in the heater is regulated by adjustable,
automatic, surface mounted thermostats located behind the jacket access panels.
These automatic controls are set at the factory to maintain a water temperature of
125f. Although these thermostats are designed to industry standards, they can fail
to control temperature properly without any notice, and therefore should be tested
periodically for your protection.
The test is very simple: Turn on the hot water faucet and measure the
maximum temperature with an accurate thermometer. If the temperature is above
the safe limits for your circumstances call a service man to adjust or replace the
control.
DANGER: IF YOU DISCOVER EXTREME HOT WATER COMING
FROM THE FAUCET, IMMEDIATELY SHUT OFF THE ELECTRICITY
AT THE MAIN SWITCH AND CALL COMPETENT SERVICE
PERSONNEL. ANY OVERHEATED WATER HEATER IS A
POTENTIAL HAZARD TO LIFE AND PROPERTY. DO NOT OPERATE
UNTIL THE SOURCE OF THE PROBLEM HAS BEEN DETERMINED
AND ELIMINATED.

10
Any temperature adjustments of thermostats must be made by qualified service
personnel as follows:
1. Shut off or disconnect all electrical service to the heater.
2. Remove the cover panel with an insulated handle screwdriver.
a. Adjust the pointer on both thermostats with the insulated screwdriver to the
desired temperature and check to see that the proper temperature is achieved.
(Do not remove protective cover from thermostat.)*
3. Replace the cover panel and reconnect electrical service.
4. Be sure that insulation is replaced carefully. Malfunction of the thermostat
will occur if voids are left in the insulation.
*Both upper and lower thermostats should be set at the same temperature under
normal residential conditions.
SAFETY CONTROLS
The heater has a combination thermostat and hi-limit control that is located
above the top-heating element.
This surface mounted hi-limit is designed to interrupt the flow of
electricity to all elements when it senses temperatures of approximately
170°F or greater. If this switch operates, do not attempt to reset. A
dangerous situation is indicated and a qualified service man should be called
to find the source before the unit is operated again.
Temperature of the water should be tested periodically at the faucet to be sure
thermostats are working properly.

11
MAINTENANCE
Properly maintained, your water heater can provide years of dependable,
trouble free service. It is suggested that the purchaser follow the preventive
maintenance program outlined below.
CONTROLS
A periodic inspection of the operating controls, heating elements and wiring
should be made by qualified service personnel. Temperature of the water should
be tested periodically at the faucet to be sure thermostats are working properly.
LONG TERM SHUT DOWN
If the water heater is to remain idle for an extended period of time, the power
and water to the heater should be turned off to conserve energy.
The water heater and piping should be drained, if they might be subjected to
freezing temperatures.
After a long shutdown period, qualified service personnel should check the
heater’s operations and controls.
Make certain the water is filled before placing it in operation.
DRAINING THE HEATER
CAUTION: Shut off all power to the heater before draining water. To drain the
tank, a hot water faucet must be opened to admit air to the tank.
1. Attach a hose to the drain valve on the heater.
2. Close valve on the cold water line to the heater.
3. Open the drain valve and direct the water to a drain.
EMERGENCY
Should the heater be subject to flood, fire or other damaging conditions, turn
off the power and water to the heater.
DO NOT place water heater in operation again until it has been thoroughly
checked by qualified service personnel.

12
TROUBLESHOOTING
FOR QUALIFIED SERVICE PERSONNEL ONLY.
CAUTION: Make certain power to heater is OFF before removing jacket access
panel(s) for any reason.
NATURE OF TROUBLE POSSIBLE CAUSE SERVICE
No Hot Water 1. Water Heater Switch turned off. Turn ON
2. Improper Wiring *Rewire per wiring
diagram
3. No Power—blown fuse
a. Shorted wiring *Replace or repair
b. Circuit over load *Provide adequate circuit
c. Improper wiring *Recheck wiring
d. Grounded Element or *Replace safety controls
Thermostat
4. Manual reset limit open
a. Thermostat malfunction *Adjust setting or replace
b. Heat build-up due to loose *Tighten connections
wires
c. Switch malfunctions *Replace
Not enough Hot 1. Heater undersized *Install proper size heater
Water
2. Element malfunction *Replace element
3. Thermostat malfunction *Check wiring—replace
Water too hot or 1. Thermostat setting too high * Change setting as required
Not hot enough or low
2. Thermostat out of calibration *Adjust setting or replace
3. Insulation around elements *Replace insulation properly
not properly replaced
*CAUTION: For your safety, DO NOT attempt repair of electrical wiring, thermostat(s),
heating elements or other operating controls. Refer repairs to qualified service personnel.

13
INSTALLATION DIAGRAM / PARTS LOCATION
Figure I

14
PARTS LIST
1. Top Pan
2. Relief Valve - Located above and to the left of hot water outlet.
3. High Limit Safety Switch –Manual reset switch designed to shut off all
electrical circuits if water reaches the setpoint of 170F or greater.
4. Automatic Thermostats –For constant temperature control, thermostats
are specifically designed for Hydrastonewater heaters. Located under
access plates.
5. Plastic Jacket –Durable & easy-to-clean jacket is hi density plastic.
6. Water Diffuser –Introduces cold water at the bottom of the tank in a flat,
gentle swirl, preventing turbulent mixing with heated water above. Tank
drain is also a part of the cold water diffuser.
7. Hot Water Outlet Nipple with Heat Trap
8. Wiring & Connections –Located in front of the heater for easy
installation and access. All wiring is designed for operation up to 6KW @
240volts.
9. Long-Life Heating Elements –Waste is reduced with immersed heating
elements because all available heat passes directly into the water. Low watt
density elements assure longer life –and reduce mineral buildup.
10.High-Density Insulation –Two inches of high-density foam blanket the
storage tank. Extra thickness on top and bottom significantly reduce heat
loss.
11.Bottom Pan
NOTE: When ordering parts, please specify model and serial number of tank,
shown on the rating plate, as well as parts name, information and number.

15
WIRING DIAGRAMS
Table 1

16
(For Use with Energy Controller Equipped Heaters Only)
FOR CONTROL OF UPPER & LOWER ELEMENTS (#1 diagram)
#1 Wiring Diagram with EC FOR CONTROL OF LOWER ELEMENTS ONLY (#5 diagram)

17
HOW TO OBTAIN SERVICE ASSISTANCE
Vaughn Thermal Corporation does not have a service department or personnel
to service your heater in the field. A qualified installer or service technician must
do all service work. Therefore, if you have any questions about your new water
heater concerning service adjustment, repair, routine maintenance, or
replacement - first contact your installer, plumbing contractor or service
agency.
In the event that the contractor, for whatever reason, is unable to help, refer to
the telephone directory commercial listings for qualified service assistance.
If neither action has solved your problem, contact Vaughn Thermal Corporation
as follows to obtain the number of a qualified service person in your area:
CUSTOMER RELATIONS DEPARTMENT
VAUGHN THERMAL CORPORATION
26 OLD ELM STREET
P.O BOX 5431
SALISBURY, MA 01952
Or call 978-462-6683
When contacting Vaughn the following information should be made available:
A. Model and serial number of the water heater as listed on inside
back cover of this manual or on the rating plate on the heater.
B. Address where water heater is installed.
C. Name and address of dealer from whom the heater was purchased and
installer’s name and address.
D. Date of original installation and any service work performed since then.
E. Details of the problem as you can best describe.
F. List of people who have been contacted regarding the problem.

18
NOTES

19
Residential Electric Water Heater
Ten Year Limited Tank Replacement Policy
and
One Year Limited Parts Warranty
Vaughn Thermal Corporation, (hereinafter called the company) offers the following Limited Warranty and Tank Replacement
Policy to the purchaser/owner of this stone-lined residential water heater.
This Limited Warranty and Tank Replacement Policy is not transferable beyond the original purchaser/owner and is not valid
if tank is removed from initial installation site. The Company reserves the right to require proof of purchase as a condition of
this warranty. Excludes any implied warranty of merchantability or fitness for any particular purpose.
LIMITED WARRANTY
DURATION: The warranty is effective for (1) year beginning with the date of original purchase. At the time the claim is filed,
if the original purchaser cannot provide an original sales receipt, deed or equivalent document in the case of a new home
purchase, this warranty shall begin from the date of manufacture as indicated by the serial number.
COVERAGE: The warranty covers any component part of the residential electric water heater proven to be defective in
workmanship or material. Recovery under the terms of this agreement is subject to prior approval by the company.
COMPANY OBLIGATION: Repair or replacement is at the option of the company and constitutes the fulfillment of ALL
obligations of the Company hereunder.
LIMITATION: All repairs or replacements will be made F.O.B. the company. The purchaser must pay for transportation
service, labor, installation, administrative fees or other costs involving the repair or replacement of such component parts.
YOUR ACTION: When you discover a defect, immediately notify the dealer from whom the heater was purchased. If you
cannot locate the dealer, contact the Company.
TANK REPLACEMENT POLICY
DURATION: (10) years from the date of original purchase. If the original purchaser cannot provide an original sales receipt,
deed or equivalent document in the case of a new home purchase, this warranty shall begin from the date of manufacture as
indicated by the serial number.
COVERAGE: Replacement policy covers only the storage tank for leaks caused by the corrosive effects of the water under
normal and proper use. Recovery under the terms of this agreement is subject to prior approval by the company. The tank
replacement policy excludes any performance warranty implied or specific of merchantability and fitness for its intended use.
COMPANY OBLIGATION: Repair of the original tank or replacement of the entire heater with a new comparable
model is at the option of the Company and constitutes the fulfillment of all the obligations of the Company
hereunder. In replacing or repairing the residential water heater, the Company reserves the right to make such
changes in details of design, construction or material as shall in their judgment constitute an improvement of
former practices.
REPLACEMENT: When a replacement is made under the terms of this policy, the replacement unit will have a policy of
replacement only for the remaining time under the original policy. The Company reserves the right to require return of the
defective unit at the expense of the purchaser.
LIMITATION: All repairs or replacements will be made F.O.B. the Company. The purchaser must pay for transportation,
service, labor installation, administrative fees or other costs involving the repair or replacement of such part.
YOUR ACTION: When you discover a defect, immediately notify the dealer from whom the heater was purchased. If you
cannot locate the dealer, contact the Company
EXCLUSIONS AND LIMITATIONS
Limited Warranty and Tank Replacement Policy are valid only if you comply with the following conditions and limitations:
1. The water heater must be correctly installed according to the installation manual provided with the unit and all applicable local
and national codes.
2. The unit must be operated within the factory calibrated temperature limits and water pressure not exceeding 150 psi.
3. Any failure or malfunction that results from improper or negligent operation, accident, abuse (including freezing), misuse,
unauthorized alteration or improper maintenance is specifically excluded.
4. Any failure or malfunction that results from failure to keep the tank full of potable water, free to circulate at all times, and free of
damaging water sediment or scale deposits, is specifically excluded. In areas where adverse water conditions are suspected (i.e.
calcium and other minerals), it is essential that the water be tested and appropriate action be taken to prevent damage to the water
heater.
5. This Limited Warranty and Tank Replacement Policy specifically exclude any implied warranty of merchantability or of fitness
for any particular purpose, as well as any performance warranty.
IN NO EVENT SHALL THE COMPANY BE LIABLE FOR ANY INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL
DAMAGES WHATSOEVER. Some states do not allow the exclusion or limitation of implied warranties or of liability
for incidental or consequential damages, so the above limitation(s) or exclusion(s) may not apply to you.