Rheem 511161 Owner's Manual And Installation Instructions page 14

MAINTENANCE REQUIREMENTS
EXPANSION CONTROL VALVE
In many areas, including South Australia, Western Australia and scaling water areas, it is mandatory an
expansion control valve is fitted to the cold water line to the water heater. The expansion control valve may
discharge a small quantity of water from its drain line during the heating period instead of the temperature
pressure relief valve on the water heater.
"Minor
Operate the easing lever on the expansion control valve once every six (6) months. Refer to
Maintenance Every Six Months" on page 12. It is very important the lever is raised and lowered gently. If
water does not flow freely from the drain line when the lever is lifted, then the water heater should be checked
by Rheem Service or their nearest Accredited Service Agent. The expansion control valve should be checked
for performance or replaced at intervals not exceeding five (5) years, or more frequently in areas where there
is a high incidence of water deposits.
COLLECTOR GLASS
Ensure the glass on your solar collector(s) is free of dust, salt spray or any other matter which may reduce the
effectiveness of the solar collector(s). Rainfall should keep the collector adequately clean. It is recommended
the collector glass be washed clean at least every three months should adequate rain not have fallen in this
period.
Collector glass can be hosed down or if the solar collector(s) is accessible such as on a trafficable roof, wash
the collector glass with water and a soft brush when the solar collector(s) is cool, such as early in the morning.
In extremely dusty areas extra attention may need to be given to keeping the collector glass clean.
Have any trees trimmed which may shade the solar collector(s).
Rheem solar collectors have passed the AS/NZS 2712 requirements for resistance to hailstone damage, so it
is not normally necessary to fit a guard to a collector. Stone Guards are available for the LCS and NPT200
solar collectors to provide a level of protection to the collectors against vandalism or accidental damage.
Contact Rheem or your local Rheem Solar Water Heater Distributor for details.
HOUSEHOLD MAINTENANCE AROUND THE SOLAR STORAGE TANK
Care should be taken when conducting general household maintenance, such as lawn mowing and grass
cutting, around the solar storage tank. Careless use of devices such as a whipper snipper could damage or
cut a sensor lead, or electrical cable or conduit.
If a sensor lead, or electrical cable or conduit is damaged or cut, solar contribution may not be achieved and
the freeze protection system may be rendered inoperative. In addition, if the electrical cable or conduit has
been damaged or cut, wiring may be exposed leading to a dangerous situation.
On a regular basis, inspect around the water heater for insect infestations, such as ants. Insects may look for
a warm place to nest, particularly in wet weather. Insects encroaching into or nesting in the water heater and
the solar control unit can interfere with the operation of the water heater and also damage components. Spray
insecticide around the water heater if necessary to rid the area of insects.
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