15
10.
Condensate Piping
• This water heater is a high effi ciency, fully condensing appliance which produces acidic condensate
during operation. The water heater incorporates a collection and removal system which must be
properly drained in order to ensure proper operation of this appliance.
• The pH level of the condensate is approximately 2-3. An external neutralizer must be installed on the
drain piping prior to disposal when required by local code or when the condensate could cause damage.
• If an external neutralizer is installed, periodic replacement of the neutralizing agent will be required.
Refer to the instructions supplied with the neutralizer for suggested replacement intervals.
• In order to drain the condensate, a 1/2" threaded fi tting is provided at the base of the water heater.
Do not reduce the size of this fi tting or the drain piping to less than 1/2".
In cold climates, do not drain the condensate to the outdoors. If the drain pipe freezes during cold
weather, the pipe will not drain condensate and the unit will stop operating.
• Use plastic pipe, such as PVC, for the drain line. Do not use steel, black iron, or any other material
which can corrode when placed into contact with acidic condensate.
• Keep the length of the drain pipe as short as possible. Long runs or applications where the nearest
drain is above the water heater will require the use of a condensate pump. Size the pump to allow for
a maximum condensate discharge of 2 GPH from the water heater.
• Horizontal runs must be sloped 1/4" per foot towards the drain or condensate pump. The condensate
will be discharged by gravity force only. Make the drain pipe run as short as possible.
• The end of the drain pipe must not be submerged in water or blocked in any way. To ensure proper
drainage, leave the end of the drain pipe open to the atmosphere. Do not have a trap. Also, make
sure that there are no obstructions blocking the drain line from discharging condensate.
• Be sure to check that condensate is freely fl owing from the drain piping after the system has been
installed. Condensate will begin fl owing out of the water heater within 15 minutes after operation has
started.
• Take measures to prevent the condensate drain lines from freezing (insulation, heat tape, electric
heaters, etc.).
Drain pipe
Drain pipe
Drain connecting
supply
Heat insulation
material
Water heater
Do not pitch the drain line up
once a horizontal section has
been introduced.Always pitch
the drain line down to ensure
proper drainage.
Due to the acidic nature of the condensate, be sure to properly drain and if necessary, treat the
condensate prior to disposal. Damage caused by improperly handled condensate is not covered
by the warranty.
CAUTION
