Rheem AP16697, Use & Care Manual, Page: 8 / 28

8
Installing the water heater.
NOTICE: This guide recommends minimum branch circuit sizing and wire size based on National Electric Code.
Refer to wiring diagrams in this manual for field wiring connections.
Branch Circuit Sizing and Wire Size Guide
CAUTION: The presence
of water in the piping
and water heater does
not provide sufficient
conduction for a ground.
Non-metallic piping,
dielectric unions, flexible
connectors etc. can cause
the water heater to be
electrically isolated.
Electrical Connections
A separate branch circuit with copper
conductors, overcurrent protective device
and suitable disconnecting means must be
provided by a qualified electrician.
All wiring must conform to local codes or
latest edition of National Electrical Code
ANSI/NFPA 70.
The water heater is completely wired to
the junction box inside jacket at the top
front of the water heater. An opening for
1/2 ″ or 3/4 ″ electrical fitting is provided
for field wiring connections.
The voltage requirements and wattage
load for the water heater are specified
on the rating plate on the front of the
water heater.
The branch circuit wiring should include either:
Metallic conduit or metallic sheathed
cable approved for use as a
grounding conductor and installed
with fittings approved for the
purpose.
Non-metallic sheathed cable, metallic
conduit or metallic sheathed cable
not approved for use as a ground
conductor shall include a separate
conductor for grounding. It should be
attached to the ground terminals of
the water heater and the electrical
distribution box.
Water heater junction box.
WARNING
WARNING
Junction
box cover
Wire connections
Ground screw
Conduit
connector
Single Phase
Wiring
Total Water
Heater Wattage
Recommended Over Current Protection
(fuse or circuit breaker amperage rating)
Copper Wire Size AWG Based
on N.E.C Table 310-16 (75
o
C)
208V 240V 208V 240V
3,000 20 20 12 12
4,000 25 25 10 10
4,500 30 25 10 10
5,000 30 30 10 10
5,500 35 30 8 10
!