whl-035 Rev. 002 Rel. 002 Date 11.1.17
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2. Choose a location for the water heater as centralized to the piping
and electrical system as possible. Also, locate the water heater and
domestic water piping where it will not be exposed to freezing
temperatures. All piping should be insulated. Additionally, place the
water heater so that the drain, controls, and inlets/outlets are easily
accessible.
NOTE:
To save on heating costs and improve energy efficiency keep
the distance between the water heater and fixtures to a minimum
to reduce heat loss from excess piping and keep friction loss at a
minimum. Ensure all water heater piping is properly insulated to
minimize heat loss.
NOTE:
If you do not provide the minimum clearances shown in
Figure 1, it might not be possible to service the water heater without
removing it from the space.
NOTE:
A combustible door or removable panel is acceptable front
clearance.
NOTE:
In the State of California, the water heater must be braced,
anchored, or strapped to avoid moving during an earthquake. Contact
local utilities for code requirements in your area. Visit http://www.dsa.
Locate the water heater where any leakage from the relief valve,
related piping, tank, or connections will not result in damage to
surrounding areas or lower floors of the building. The water heater
should be located near a floor drain or installed in a drain pan.
Leakage damages ARE NOT covered by warranty.
This water heater is certified for indoor use only. DO NOT INSTALL
OUTDOORS. Outdoor installations ARE NOT covered by warranty.
Failure to install the water heater indoors could result in property
damage, severe personal injury, or death.
Figure 1 - Recommended Service Clearances - NOTE: Overhead View Not
Representative of All Models
B. Locating the Water Heater
1. Installation Area (Mechanical Room) Operating Conditions
• Ensure ambient temperatures are higher than 32
o
F / 0
o
C and
lower than 104
o
F / 40
o
C
• Avoid continuously high levels of humidity
• Never close existing ventilation openings
NOTE:
When installing in a zero clearance location, it may not be
possible to read or view some product labeling. It is recommended to
make note of the water heater model and serial number.
The service life of the water heater’s exposed metallic surfaces, such
as the junction box, is directly influenced by proximity to damp and
salty marine environments. In such areas higher concentration levels
of chlorides from sea spray coupled with relative humidity can lead
to degradation of water heater components.
Incorrect operating conditions can lead to damage to the heating
system and put safe operation at risk. Ensure that the installation
location adheres to the information included in this manual. Failure
to do so could result in property damage, serious personal injury, or
death. Failure of the water heater or components due to incorrect
operating conditions IS NOT covered by product warranty.
This water heater must be installed upright in the vertical position
as described in this manual. DO NOT attempt to install this water
heater in any other orientation. Doing so will result in improper
water heater operation and property damage, and could result in
serious personal injury or death.
This water heater must not be located near flammable liquids such
as gasoline, butane, liquefied propane, adhesives, solvents, paint
thinners, etc., as the controls of this water heater could ignite these
vapors and cause an explosion resulting in property damage,
severe personal injury, or death.
4. If the water heater is to replace an existing water heater, check for
and correct any existing system problems such as:
• System leaks
• Location that could cause the system and water heater to
freeze and leak
• Incorrectly-sized expansion tank
5. This water heater must be installed vertical on a level surface.
C. Water Chemistry Requirements
Chemical imbalance of the water supply may affect efficiency and
cause severe damage to the appliance and associated equipment.
Water quality must be professionally analyzed to determine
whether it is necessary to treat the water. Various solutions are
available to adjust water quality. Adverse water quality will affect
the reliability of the system. In addition, operating temperatures
above 135
o
F will accelerate the build-up of lime scale and possibly
shorten appliance service life. Failure of an appliance due to lime
scale build-up, low pH, or other chemical imbalance IS NOT covered
by the warranty.
The water must be potable, free of corrosive chemicals, sand, dirt,
and other contaminates. It is up to the installer to ensure the water
does not contain corrosive chemicals or elements that can damage
the heat exchanger. Potable water is defined as drinkable water
supplied from utility or well water in compliance with EPA secondary
maximum contaminant levels (40 CFR Part 143.3). If the water contains
contaminants higher than outlined by the EPA, water treatment is
recommended and additional, more frequent maintenance may be
required.
dgs.ca.gov or call 1-916-445-8100 and request instructions.
However, applicable local codes shall govern installation. For
residential water heaters of a capacity of greater than 52 gallons,
consult the local building jurisdiction for acceptable bracing
procedures.
3. Check area around water heater. Remove any combustible
materials, gasoline, and other flammable liquids.
