Clearances And Accessibility - American Water Heater 6510381 Installation Instructions And Use & Care Manual

Important: The water 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 water
heater or to lower floors of the structure. Due to the
normal corrosive action of the water, the tank will
eventually leak after an extended period of time.
Also any external plumbing leak, including those
from improper installation, may cause early failure
of the tank due to corrosion if not repaired. If the
homeowner is uncomfortable with making the repair
a qualified service technician should be contacted.
A suitable metal drain pan should be installed under
the water heater as shown below, to help protect
the property from damage which may occur from
condensate formation or leaks in the piping connections
or tank. The pan must limit the water level to a maximum
depth of 1-3/4" and be two inches wider than the heater
and piped to an adequate drain. The pan must not
restrict combustion air flow. Locate the water heater
near a suitable indoor drain. Outside drains are subject
to freezing temperatures which can obstruct the drain
line. The piping should be at least 3/4" ID and pitched
for proper drainage. Under no circumstances will the
manufacturer or seller of this water heater be held liable
for any water damage which is caused by your failure to
follow these instructions.
1 3/4" maximum
At least 2" greater than the
diameter of the water heater.
• The water heater should be located in an area not
subject to freezing temperatures. Water heaters located
in unconditioned spaces (i.e., attics, basements,
etc.) may require insulation of the water piping and
drain piping to protect against freezing. The drain and
controls must be easily accessible for operation and
service. Maintain proper clearances as specified on the
data plate.
• Do not locate the water heater near an air-moving
device. The operation of air-moving devices such as
exhaust fans, ventilation systems, clothes dryers,
fire-places, etc., can affect the proper operation of
the water heater. Special attention must be given to
conditions these devices may create. Flow reversal of
flue gases may cause an increase of carbon monoxide
inside of the dwelling.
• If the water heater is located in an area that is
subjected to lint, dirt, and oil, it may be necessary
to periodically clean the flame-trap (see "External
Inspection & Cleaning of the Flame-trap," Page 22).
Figure 1
Air-moving
Devices

Clearances and Accessibility

Notice: Minimum clearances from combustible materials
are stated on the data plate adjacent to the gas control
valve/thermostat of the water heater.
The water heater is certified for installation on a
combustible floor.
• Important: If installing over carpeting, the carpeting
must be protected by a metal or wood panel beneath
the water heater. The protective panel must extend
beyond the full width and depth of the water heater by
at least three inches (76.2mm) in any direction; or if in
an alcove or closet installation, the entire floor must be
covered by the panel.
• Figure 2 may be used as a reference guide to locate
the specific clearance locations. A minimum of 24
Pipe to
inches of front clearance should be provided for
adequate
inspection and service.
drain
Figure 2
Minimum Clearance
Locations
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State of California
Note: The water heater must be braced, anchored, or
strapped to avoid moving during an earthquake.
Contact local utilities for code requirements in your area
or call 1-800-999-9515 and request instructions.
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Sides
to
ceiling
Front
24" minimum
Sides
for service
Exhaust
Fan
Reverse flow
of gases
Vent
5