Installation; Site Location, Preparation & Unit Positioning - Rheem RTHP009 Installation Maintenance And Service Manual

SECTION 1
For validity of the Rheem Thermal warranty, installation must be carried out by registered trade
person.

Reference should be made to the unit specifications to determine weight and lifting requirements.

Packaging materials should be removed upon delivery so to avoid any sweating of the electrical
compartment or potential staining to the case, particularly in tropical areas.
Site Location, Preparation & Unit Positioning

Heat Pump heating efficiency and output increases with the rise in entering air temperature and
as such, it is not necessary for the unit to be placed in sunlight in the manner of a solar heating
system. On the other hand, direct sunlight to the evaporator may provide a marginal increase in
heat transfer and would assist in the removal of ice formation in cold climate locations.

Locating the Heat Pump close to other system equipment like filter, pump, tank, etc. will minimise
friction and heat losses.

It is important that the Clearance Guidelines included in this Manual are read and understood.
These guidelines set out the minimum clearance requirements in respect of air flow and
servicing.

Free circulation of air across the coil, requires no obstructions on the intake or fan discharge of
Heat Pumps. In addition, care should be taken to ensure that walls, eaves, etc. do not obstruct
the release of discharge air such that this may recirculate in the incoming air stream of the unit.

For the plant-room installation, make sure that sufficient fresh air is available via provision of inlet
grills in building design, etc. Exhaust air from the Heat Pump must be discharged by a duct away
from the fresh air supply. Never install in an enclosed area.

Service access is required at both ends of the Heat Pump as per the Clearance Guidelines (See
attached)

Where multiple units are to be installed, minimum clearance requirements increase.

The Heat Pump requires a firm base, say concrete slab. Rubber mounts should be installed
between the unit and slab.

Drainage of condensate and entering rain water will occur at drainage points provided at the
plumbing end of the unit. To ensure proper drainage, make sure that the unit is located at a
slightly tilted angle with the drain on the downhill side of the unit. This can be done by making
the concrete slab slightly higher at one end or lifting one end of the unit by rubber mounts,
noting that the larger units include inbuilt 50mm fall. If the unit is to be installed internally, it is
recommended that it sit within a separate drip tray, with provision for drainage of this water to a
drain, etc. Ideally, the condensate drain provision connected to the heat pump drip tray or to
the drainage points in the heat pump should be flexible and able to be readily removed for
cleaning. Clear plastic connections at the drain will allow the owner to check that debris/dust
etc. has not restricted the condensate drains. It is important that water is not allowed to pond
within the unit so as to avoid corrosion to the base of the compressor or heat exchangers.

Local building authorities should be consulted for regulations concerning minimum installation
distance from pool or other amenities.

Units to be used in areas having corrosive atmospheres should be specified at time of ordering.

Consideration should be given to the operating noise, wherever possible the exhaust should be
directed away from the occupied areas.

INSTALLATION

Delivery
2