Common Complaints; Fault Finding - Rheem 70103 Service Instructions Manual

Common Complaints

When a complaint is lodged about the performance of a hot water system there are a
number of causes that should be checked and eliminated. In an attempt to pinpoint the
most likely cause it is important to discuss with the customer their reasons for the
complaint, the duration of the problem, any change in circumstances or usage. This
information in conjunction with the following listed common complaints will assist you in
locating the most likely cause. All procedures assume there is water flowing through the
water heater.
Excessive Boiling Water Usage
The complaints of insufficient and no boiling water can on many occasions be attributed to
water usage exceeding the capacity of the BWU.
When first attending a call of this nature it is essential to establish the probable water
usage by querying the usage habits of the inhabitants and then comparing this with the
potential delivery volume of the model BWU installed. It can then be established if the
usage is within or outside the capacity of the model. The areas to look at for excessive
usage are:
1. Change of occupancy or an increase in the number of persons.
2. Plumbing or BWU tap leaks.
Discoloured water
1. This may be the result of discoloured water entering from the cold water mains. Check
if the cold water is also discoloured.
2. Milky coloured water is generally air in suspension and will disperse of its own accord.
Water hammer
A water heater will not cause water hammer, however valves associated with the water
heater may be the source of the problem i.e. cold-water stopcock or non-return valve.
Most water hammer problems are associated with hot and/or cold plumbing or appliances
i.e. solenoid valves, ballcocks, loose pipes, sharp angles in pipe work, faulty or worn valve
parts or neighbouring equipment.
High water pressure areas will have more complaints of this nature and the use of a
pressure-limiting valve (PLV) to reduce the cold-water pressure will usually solve most
problems.

Fault Finding

Test Equipment
A list of test equipment which will assist in conducting diagnostic procedures is provided
below. This equipment is available from your distributor.
Fine probe adapter kit
Probe to alligator clip kit
Proxy Timer Service kit
TM063 701, 702 & 703 Series Boiling Water Unit Service Instructions
Revision D: Feb 2017
This document is stored and maintained electronically by
Service. All printed copies not bearing this statement in RED are deemed "uncontrolled"
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