CAUTION: The
presence of water in the
piping and water heater
does not provide
sufficient conduction for
a ground. Non-metallic
piping, dielectric unions,
flexible connectors etc.
can cause the water
heater to be electrically
isolated.
To Fill the Water Heater
Make certain the drain valve is completely
closed.
Open the shut-off valve in the cold water
supply line.
Open each hot water faucet slowly to
allow the air to vent from the water
heater and piping.
A steady flow of water from the hot water
faucet(s) indicates a full water heater.
Electrical Connections
All wiring must conform to local codes
or latest edition of National Electrical
Code ANSI/NFPA 70.
The voltage requirements and wattage load
for the water heater are specified on the
rating plate on the front of the water heater.
2
1
/2 gallon models are supplied with a
plug connected power supply cord for
use only in 120 VAC applications. The
cord must be connected to a properly
grounded receptacle on a branch circuit
with copper conductors, an over current
protection device and a suitable
disconnect means. If desired, straight
field wiring connections can be made to
these models by removing the access
cover on front of heater and
disconnecting the cord set from the
thermostat and the grounding plug. Remove
the cord set and strain relief bushing
from the junction bracket. The hole in the
junction bracket will accommodate 1/2″
or 3/4″ electrical fittings. Refer to wiring
diagrams in the back of this manual for
wiring connections.
6 through 20 gallon models are completely
wired to the junction bracket inside jacket
at front of water heater. An opening for
1/2″ or 3/4″ electrical fitting is provided
for field wiring connections. A separate
branch circuit with copper conductors,
overcurrent protective device and suitable
disconnecting means must be provided
by a qualified electrician. Refer to wiring
diagrams in the back of this manual for
wiring connections.
The branch circuit wiring should
include either:
Metallic conduit or metallic sheathed
cable approved for use as a grounding
conductor and installed with
fittings approved for the purpose.
Non-metallic sheathed cable, metallic
conduit or metallic sheathed cable
not approved for use as a ground
conductor shall include a separate
conductor for grounding. It should
be attached to the ground terminals
of the water heater and the
electrical distribution box.
8
Installing the water heater.
Customer Service Troubleshooting Tips Care and Cleaning Operating Instructions Installation Instructions Safety Instructions
Condensation
Condensation can form on the tank
when it is first filled with water.
Condensation might also occur with a
heavy water draw and very cold inlet
water temperature.
This condition is not unusual, and will
disappear after the water becomes
heated. If, however, the condensation
continues, examine the piping and
fittings for possible leaks.
Additional information on this subject
may be found at www.rheem.com
under “Library”. Scroll down to the
Technical Service Bulletins 1300 Series
Section and choose Bulletin #1303.
WARNING: The tank
must be full of water before
heater is turned on. The
water heater warranty does
not cover damage or failure
resulting from operation
with an empty or partially
empty tank. (Refer to the
Certificate of Limited
Warranty for complete terms
and conditions.)