Whirlpool 318686-000 Water Heater User Manual


 
6
Please note the following:
DO NOT install this water heater with iron piping.
The system should be installed only with piping that
is suitable for potable (drinkable) water such as
copper, CPVC, or polyethylene (PEX).
DO NOT use PVC water piping.
DO NOT use any pumps, valves, or ttings that are
not compatible with potable water.
DO NOT use valves that may cause excessive
restriction to water ow. Use full- ow ball or gate
valves only.
DO NOT use tin-lead solder in potable water lines.
Use 95/5 tin antimony or other equivalent material.
DO NOT tamper with the energy smart module,
electronic thermostat, temperature sensors, heat-
ing elements, electrical connections, or temperature
and pressure relief valve. Tampering voids all war-
ranties. Only quali ed person should service these
components.
DO NOT use with piping that has been treated with
chromate’s, boiler seal, or other chemicals.
DO NOT add any chemicals to the system piping
which will contaminate the potable water supply.
Closed System/Thermal Expansion
Typically, a closed system includes a pressure reducing
valve (PRV) on the cold water inlet (supply line). As water
is heated, it expands (thermal expansion). In a closed sys-
tem, the volume of water will grow. As the volume of water
grows, there will be a corresponding increase in water
pressure due to thermal expansion. Thermal expansion
can cause premature tank failure (leakage). This type of
failure is not covered under the limited warranty. Thermal
expansion can also cause intermittent temperature-
pressure relief valve operation: water discharged from the
valve due to excessive pressure build up. The tempera-
ture-pressure relief valve is not intended for the constant
relief of thermal expansion. This condition is not covered
under the limited warranty.
A properly-sized thermal expansion tank should be in-
stalled on all closed systems to control the harmful effects
of thermal expansion. Contact a plumbing service agency
or your retail supplier regarding the installation of a ther-
mal expansion tank.
Temperature and Pressure
Relief Valve
Figure 5
Temperature and Pressure
Relief Valve Installation
Optional location some
models only
Temperature and
Pressure Relief Valve
Discharge Line
3/4 inch min.
Do not cap or plug.
6 inch
maximum
Drain Pan
Drain
GRID
ENABLED
VACATION
STANDARD
ENERGY
SMART
°F/°C
F
For protection against excessive pressures and
temperatures, a temperature and pressure relief valve
must be installed in the opening marked “T&P RELIEF
VALVE” (See Figure 5). This valve must be design certi-
ed by a nationally recognized testing laboratory that
maintains periodic inspection of the production of listed
equipment or materials as meeting the requirements
for Relief Valves for Hot Water Supply Systems, ANSI
Z21.22. The function of the temperature and pressure
relief valve is to discharge water in large quantities in the
event of excessive temperature or pressure develop-
ing in the water heater. The valve’s relief pressure must
not exceed the working pressure of the water heater as
stated on the rating plate.
IMPORTANT: Only a new temperature and pressure
relief valve should be used with your water heater. Do
not use an old or existing valve as it may be damaged or
not adequate for the working pressure of the new water
heater. Do not place any valve between the relief valve
and the tank.
Explosion Hazard
• Temperature-pressure relief
valve must comply with ANSI
Z21.22-CSA 4.4 and ASME
code.
• Properly sized temperature-
pressure relief valve must be
installed in opening provided.
• Can result in overheating
and excessive tank pressure.
• Can cause serious injury or
death.
Expansion Tank Sizing Chart
Inlet Water Heater Capacity (Gallons)
Water
Pressure 30 40 50 66 82
Expansion 40psi 2 2 2 5 5
Tank 50psi 2 2 2 5 5
Capacity 60psi 2 2 5 5 5
Needed 70psi 2 2 5 5 5
80psi 2 5 5 5 5
A thermal expansion tank can help prevent damage to the
water heater and other appliances (i.e.: washing machine,
ice maker, dishwasher, etc.).
IMPORTANT: Do not plug or remove the temperature and
pressure relief valve (T&P valve).