Water Temperature - Rheem HG Series Use & Care Manual

Operating the water heater.
CAUTION: Hydrogen gas can be produced in a hot water system served by this water heater that has not been
used for a long period of time (generally two weeks or more). HYDROGEN GAS IS EXTREMELY FLAMMABLE!! To
dissipate such gas and to reduce risk of injury, it is recommended that the hot water faucet be opened for several
minutes at the kitchen sink before using any electrical appliance connected to the hot water system. If hydrogen
is present, there will be an unusual sound such as air escaping through the pipe as the water begins to flow. Do
not smoke or use an open flame near the faucet at the time it is open.
Safety Precautions
Do turn off manual gas shut-off valve if water
heater has been subjected to over heating, fire,
flood, physical damage or if the gas supply fails
to shut off.
Do Not turn on water heater unless it is filled
with water.
Do Not turn on water heater if cold water supply
shut-off valve is closed.
Do Not allow combustible materials such as
newspaper, rags or mops to accumulate near
water heater.
DANGER: There is a hot
water scald potential
if the thermostat is set
too high. Households with
small children, disabled, or
elderly persons may require
a 120°F. or lower thermostat
setting to prevent contact
with HOT water.
16
Water Temperature Setting
The temperature of the water in the
water heater can be regulated by setting
the temperature dial on the front of the
thermostat.
Safety and energy conservation are
factors to be considered when selecting
the water temperature setting of the
water heater' s thermostat(s). The lower
the temperature setting, the greater the
savings in energy and operating costs.
To comply with safety regulations the
thermostat was factory set at 120°F. or
less where local codes require. This is the
recommended starting point.
Time/Temperature Relationship in Scalds
Temperature
120°F.
125°F.
130°F.
135°F.
140°F.
145°F.
150°F.
155°F.
Table courtesy of Shriners Burn Institute
Do Not store or use gasoline or other flammable
vapors and liquids, such as adhesives or paint
thinner, in vicinity of this or any other appliance.
If such flammables must be used, open doors
and windows for ventilation, and all gas burning
appliances in the vicinity should be shut off
including their pilot lights, to avoid vapors lighting.
NOTE: Flammable vapors may be drawn by air currents
from surrounding areas to the water heater.
If there is any difficulty in understanding or
following the Operating Instructions or the
Care and Cleaning section, it is recommended that
a qualified person or serviceman perform the work.
Water temperatures above 125°F.
can cause severe burns or death from
scalding. Be sure to read and follow the
warnings outlined in this manual and on
the label on the water heater. This label
is located on the water heater near the
thermostat access panel.
Mixing valves for reducing point of use
water temperature by mixing hot and
cold water in branch water lines are
available. Contact a licensed plumber or
the local plumbing authority for further
information.
The chart below may be used as a guide
in determining the proper water
temperature for your home.
Time To Produce a Serious Burn
More than 5 minutes
1 ⁄ to 2 minutes
1
2
About 30 seconds
About 10 seconds
Less than 5 seconds
Less than 3 seconds
About 1
About 1 second
⁄ seconds
1
2