Freeze Protection And Winterization - Rinnai REU-VA1320WF-US Operation And Installation Manual

Freeze Protection
Make sure that in case of freezing weather that the water heater and its water lines are adequately protected to
prevent freezing. Damage due to freezing is not covered by the warranty. Refer to the section on Freeze
Running a low volume of water through the water heater to prevent freezing
If the temperature exceeds the ability of the water heater to freeze
protect itself, or if power is lost, the following steps may prevent the
water heater and external piping from freezing.
1. Turn the water heater off.
2. Close the gas supply valve.
3. Turn on a hot water tap to flow water about 0.1 gal/min or where
the stream is about 0.2 inches thick.
When the water heater or external piping has frozen
1. Do not operate the water heater if it or the external piping is frozen.
2. Close the gas and water valves and turn off the power.
3. Wait until the water thaws. Check by opening the water supply valve.
4. Check the water heater and the piping for leaks.
Winterizing
These recommendations are intended to suggest practices which are effective for winterizing the water heater.
They should be used as a guide only. No liability is assumed for any issues resulting from the use of this
information.
GAS
Shut off the gas to the water heater. It is generally preferable to shut off the gas service to the entire

location if gas is not going to be used.
WATER

Shut off the cold water supply to the water heater. It is generally preferable to shut off the water to the
entire location if water is not going to be used.

Drain the water heater. (Refer to "Manual Draining of the Water Heater" section of this manual)

Open several hot water taps and remove the filter assembly at the water inlet in order to allow room for
expansion in case there is water in the lines that freeze.
ELECTRIC

Disconnect the power supply by either unplugging the electrical cord or by turning off the circuit breaker to
the water heater to prevent potential damage from irregular power surges or interruptions.
VENT TERMINATION

Place a cover over the vent termination if it can be safely accessed. The cover should be easy to apply and
remove. This will prevent debris, leaves, and small animals from entering the venting and water heater
which could cause air flow issues upon return to service.
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Freeze Protection and Winterization

RH180 Manual
Protection.
ON!
COLD
0.1 gal/min or
about 0.2 inch
thick
HOT