How The Water Heater Works; Regular Care - Rheem ELECTRIC WATER HEATERS Installation Instructions & Owner's Manual

HOW THE WATER HEATER WORKS

SINGLE AND TWIN ELEMENT MODELS
Water stored within the water heater is heated by the electric heating element. The thermostat controls
the electricity supply to the heating element so that a constant water temperature is maintained. As the
cold water is heated it expands approximately1/50 of its volume and as a result, a small amount of
water is discharged from the cold water expansion valve.
MODELS WITH ADDITIONAL CONNECTIONS OR COIL(S)
In addition to electric heating elements, models with additional sockets may be connected to
alternative energy sources such as heat pump water heaters or solar panels to heat the water stored
within the water heater. Models with 'direct' connections allow hot and cold water to be circulated
directly to and from the volume inside the water heater. Models with coils allow heat transfer to occur
to and from non-potable fluids being circulated through the coil(s).
Warning: Connection to this water heater of any external heating source must be designed and
installed by qualified and authorised persons in accordance with relevant regulations and
standards. Failure to comply may cause a dangerous situation and void the warranty.
SAFETY
On all models, a Temperature and Pressure Relief valve is supplied with each water heater. It can be
found inside the front cover and must be fitted to the appropriate socket on the top side of the water
heater. Also fitted to the water heater is a thermostat which incorporates an over-temperature thermal
cut-out device.
Warning: The operation of the thermal cut-out indicates a possible dangerous situation. Do not
reset the thermal cut-out until the water heater has been serviced by an authorised service person.
Warning: These safety devices must not be tampered with, or removed, and under no
circumstances operate the water heater unless both devices are fitted.
MANUALLY OPERATING THE TEMPERATURE AND PRESSURE RELIEF VALVE:
Valve manufacturers recommend that you operate the easing lever (see diagram 1) on the
Temperature and Pressure Relief valve once every six months. It is very important that you raise
and lower the lever gently.
Warning: To ensure the relief valve is working correctly, operate the relief valve easing lever at
least every six months. Failure to do this may result in a dangerous situation due to the water
heater over-pressurising.
Lift until
water flows
DIAGRAM 1
from the
drain line –
lower gently
Drain line

REGULAR CARE

Water Heater
- 3 -
If water does not flow freely from the
drain line or the valve fails to
completely close and water continues
to be discharged, contact Rheem
Service on 0800 657 335, or your
local plumber.