Rheem RTE 3, User Manual, Page: 11 / 16

11
! DANGER: There is a
hot water scald potential
if the thermostat is set
too high. Households with
small children, disabled,
or elderly persons may
require a 120°F or lower
thermostat setting to
prevent contact with
HOT water.
Water Temperature Setting
The temperature of the water in the
water heater can be regulated by
setting the temperature dial.
Safety and energy conservation
are factors to be considered when
selecting the water temperature
setting of the water heater’s
thermostat(s). The lower the
temperature setting, the greater the
savings in energy and operating
costs.
Water temperatures above 125°F
can cause severe burns or death
from scalding. Be sure to read and
follow the warnings outlined in
this manual and on the label on the
water heater.
Mixing valves for reducing point
of use water temperature by mixing
hot and cold water in branch
water lines are available. Contact
a licensed plumber or the local
plumbing authority for further
information.
The chart on top of the next
page may be used as a guide in
determining the proper water
temperature for your home.
Operating the water heater.
Preparing the Water Heater for Operation
Warning: Open hot water
faucet for a few minutes until
water flows in continuous and all
air is purged from water pipes.
1. Turn temperature knob to
lowest setting.
2. Turn on circuit breaker to bring
electrical power to the unit.
3. Open hot water faucet to a
degree so that water flow is
“typical” i.e. until the water
flow is the same as that
encountered during normal use.
4. Wait twenty seconds until
temperature has stabilized. Then
check water temperature. If
temperature is too low, increase
temperature setting on heater
thermostat.
WARNING: If the
water heater has been
subjected to flood, fire,
or physical damage, turn
off power and water to
the water heater.
Do not operate the
water heater again until
it has been thoroughly
checked by qualified
service personnel.
Temperature Adjustment
!
Thermostat dial
pointer
When the "System Active"
is illuminated, there is a call for
hot water and the elements are
energized.
When "Standby Mode"
is illuminated, the unit is not
active and the elements are not
energized.