6
Table 1: Clearances From Combustibles
All Models
Top/Rear
0"
(0cm)
Front
6"
(15cm)
Sides
0"
(0cm)
Vent
1"
(2.5cm)
Table 2: Recommended Service Clearances
All Models
Top
Right Side
Left Side
Back
Front
24” (60cm)
12” (30cm)
12” (30cm)
12” (30cm)
12” (30cm)
Clearances from combustible construction are noted on the
appliance rating plate. When installed directly on combustible
flooring, the appliance shall be installed on a metal panel
extending beyond the full width and depth of the appliance by at
least 3 inches (76.2mm) in any direction. The floor must be strong
enough to support the full weight of the heater. When placing the
appliance be aware that a minimum clearance of 24” (60cm)
must be provided at the front to allow easy access to the heat
exchanger.
A service clearance of 24” must be provided above
the top panel to allow access to the burner. Maintain specified
clearances for adequate operation. All installations must allow
sufficient space for servicing the vent connections, water pipe
connections, circulating pump, bypass piping and other auxiliary
equipment, as well as the appliance.
2.5
– Condensate Removal and Treatment
This high efficiency appliance operates in a condensing mode
due to the low temperatures of incoming water supply.
Condensate occurs when the products of combustion are cooled
below their dew point in the heat transfer process. The liquid
condensate formed from this high efficiency heat transfer
process is mildly acidic. The condensate will typically have a pH
ranging from 3.5 to 5.0 as it is discharged from the condensate
drain at the rear of the appliance. M
any
codes will require
neutralization before it can be piped to a drain system.
Neutralization is recommended with every appliance.
The neutralizer consists of an industrial grade, non-corrosive
reservoir for collection of the condensate, filled with a
consumable fill media that raises the pH of the water. As the
reservoir fills, it provides an extended residency time to neutralize
the condensate. As the pH number increases in numerical value,
the relative acidity of the discharge decreases. The neutralized
condensate may then be discharged into a suitable drain system
without fear of damaging the drain piping. Condensate must be
able to flow freely from the appliance. Condensate flow is
accomplished by gravity, requiring a minimum downward slope
of 1/4” per foot (21mm/m) to ensure proper flow to the neutralizer
and/or a suitable drain. The neutralizer
MUST
always be
mounted on the same level or lower than the condensate drain
at the vent connection.
The VTech and vent condensate drain requires a trap of some
kind upstream of the neutralizer, to ensure that flue gas does not
exit through the drain (this must be provided external of the water
heater). Prime the trap with water during commissioning. Use
standard ½" vinyl, PVC, CPVC or suitable hose to run to floor
drain. Neutralizers may be used in series to raise pH. See
Section 3.1.2 for more information on proper drainage of
condensate.
Always check with local codes for specific pH requirements. All
condensate piping and connections must be easily accessible for
routine maintenance and inspection.
2.6
– Insulation
The VTech incorporates a foam insulation around the storage
tank, underneath the outer shell. No additional insulation is
required. If additional insulation is used, it must not extend
beyond lower edge of the top dome of the water heater (i.e. it
must not cover any portion of the top of the water heater, which
could obstruct air flow and restrict serviceability).
2.7
– Pump Assembly
The pump assembly (ships loose with the water heater) needs to
be installed on all installations. The pump assembly can be
installed either on right or left side fof the unit depending on
where the water connections are.
Refer to Appendix B
on how
to install the pump assembly.
Installation of pump assembly would help to reduces the build-up
of scale, improves efficiency by creating more contact between
the heating surfaces and the water and improves performance
by equalizing tank temperature.
Factory warranty does not apply to units with no pump assembly
installed or improperly installed or operated
pump assembly
.