Locating The New Water Heater - A.O. Smith dre-52 Instruction Manual

locatInG the new water heater

facts to consIder aBout the locatIon
Carefully choose a location for the new water heater. The placement
is a very important consideration for the safety of the occupants in
the building and for the most economical use of the appliance.
Whether replacing an old water heater or putting the water heater in
a new location, the following critical points must be observed. The
water heater must be located:
1. On a level surface. Shim the channel type skid base as necessary
if levelling is required.
2. Near a floor drain. The heater should be located in an area where
leakage of the tank or connections will not result in damage to the
area adjacent to the heater or to lower floors of the structure.
3. Close to the point of major hot water usage and the power
supply.
Hot water piping and branch circuit wiring should be as short as
possible.
Insulate hot and cold water piping where heat loss and condensation
may be a problem.
Heater construction permits installation, maintenance, and
service work to be performed through the front control panel.
Suggested clearances from adjacent surfaces are 12 inches on
top, 30 inches in front for access to the unit.
The heater may be installed on or against combustible surfaces. The
left side and back may be placed flush against adjacent surfaces.
The temperature of the space in which the water heater is installed
must not go below 32°F or above 122°F.
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