Rheem 310 Series Technical Document

This water heater must be installed and serviced by an authorised person.

Please leave this guide with the householder.

Owner’s Guide

and

Installation Instructions

Air Sourced 310 Heat Pump

Water Heater

PATENTS

This water heater may be protected by one or more patents or registered designs in the name of

Rheem Australia Pty Ltd.

TRADE MARKS

®Registered trademark of Rheem Australia Pty Ltd.

™ Trademark of Rheem Australia Pty Ltd.

Note: Every care has been taken to ensure accuracy in preparation of this publication.

No liability can be accepted for any consequences, which may arise as a result of its application.

Notice to Victorian Customers from the

Victorian Plumbing Industry Commission.

This water heater must be installed by a licensed person as required by the

Victorian Building Act 1993.

Only a licensed person will give you a Compliance Certificate, showing that the work complies with all the

relevant Standards. Only a licensed person will have insurance protecting their workmanship for 6 years.

Make sure you use a licensed person to install this water heater and ask for your Compliance Certificate.

CONTENTS

HOUSEHOLDER –We recommend you read pages 4 to 13.

The other pages are intended for the installer but may be of interest.

About Your Water Heater............................................................................................................ 4

Regular Care................................................................................................................................ 8

Water Supplies............................................................................................................................. 9

Save A Service Call................................................................................................................... 11

Installation.................................................................................................................................. 14

Heat Pump And Tank Assembly.............................................................................................. 21

Connections –Plumbing.......................................................................................................... 28

Connections –Electrical........................................................................................................... 30

Multiple Installations................................................................................................................. 32

Commissioning.......................................................................................................................... 35

Draining The Water Heater....................................................................................................... 36

Warranty..................................................................................................................................... 39

ABOUT YOUR WATER HEATER

MODEL TYPE

Your Rheem®air sourced heat pump water heater is designed for outdoor installation only. The model you

have chosen is a 551 series model. The 551 310 model heat pump water heater is recommended for

connection to a minimum 16 hour per day power supply.

A Rheem heat pump water heater consumes less energy than an electric water heater. The impact on an

electricity account will depend on the tariff arrangement of the water heater replaced and where you live.

Contact your energy provider for more information on tariff arrangements and cost comparisons.

The Rheem air sourced heat pump water heater has a Rheemglas®vitreous enamel lined steel cylinder. The

water heater‟s evaporator absorbs heat from the surrounding air and transfers this heat into the water.

When hot water is drawn off and cold water enters the tank, the thermostat activates a fan, a compressor

and a circulator. The fan draws outside air in through the air inlet louvres at the top of the water heater and

the pump circulates water from the bottom of the storage tank through a heat exchanger. Heat is absorbed

from the air by an evaporator and transferred into the water through the heat exchanger. The resulting cold

air is then discharged through the air outlet louvres back to atmosphere and the heated water is circulated

back into the top of the storage tank. This process continues while ever heating is required until the water in

the storage tank reaches a temperature of 60°C.

Even on cloudy or cold days, heat is drawn from the surrounding air. The

heat pump will operate when the ambient air temperature is 5°C or higher.

The booster heating unit will operate when the ambient air temperature

falls below 5°C, if heating is required. The efficiency of the water heater

increases as the surrounding ambient air temperature increases.

Automatic safety controls are fitted to the water heater to provide safe and

efficient operation.

ELECTRIC BOOSTING

Ice may begin to form on the evaporator reducing the heat pump efficiency,

when the ambient air temperature falls below 7°C and the heat pump has

been operating for an extended period. At ambient air temperatures below

5°C, the water heater deactivates the heat pump operation and switches to

the booster heating unit. During this period the evaporator will defrost if

necessary.

The boost capacity in this mode is 220 litres. The water inside the tank will

be heated to a temperature of 60°C by the electric booster heating unit if

heating is required. The temperature setting of the sensor controlling the

booster heating unit is not adjustable and is set at 60°C.

MAINS PRESSURE

The water heater is designed to operate at mains pressure by connecting directly to the mains water supply.

If the mains supply pressure in your area exceeds that shown on page 15, a pressure limiting valve must be

fitted. The supply pressure should be greater than 350 kPa for true mains pressure operation to be achieved.

A minimum water supply pressure of 200 kPa is required to enable the heat pump circulator and heat pump

system to operate effectively.

ABOUT YOUR WATER HEATER

HOW HOT SHOULD THE WATER BE?

The system controls (compressor, evaporator and fan) will

operate until a water temperature of approximately 60 C is

reached. If the ambient air temperature is outside of the heat

pump‟s operating range, the water temperature is boosted

automatically to 60°C by the electric booster heating unit, if

heating is required.

To meet the requirements of the National Plumbing Standard

the temperature of the stored water must not be below 60 C.

HOTTER WATER INCREASES THE RISK OF SCALD INJURY

This water heater can deliver water at temperatures which can

cause scalding. Check the water temperature before use, such

as when entering a shower or filling a bath or basin, to ensure it

is suitable for the application and will not cause scald injury.

We recommend and it may also be required by regulations that

an approved temperature limiting device be fitted into the hot

water pipe work to the bathroom and ensuite when this water

heater is installed. This will keep the water temperature below

50 C at the bathroom and ensuite. The risk of scald injury will

be reduced and still allow hotter water to the kitchen and

laundry.

TEMPERATURE ADJUSTMENT

The thermostats controlling the heat pump and the booster heating unit are factory set and not adjustable.

WARNING

This water heater is only intended to be operated by persons who have the experience or the knowledge and

the capabilities to do so. This water heater is not intended to be operated by persons with reduced physical,

sensory or mental capabilities i.e. the infirm, or by children. Children should be supervised to ensure they do

not interfere with the water heater.

This water heater uses 240 V AC electrical power for operation of the control systems and the electrically

operated components. The removal of the access cover(s) will expose 240 volt wiring. They must only be

removed by an authorised or qualified person.

Do not use aerosols, stain removers and household chemicals near the water heater whilst it is

working. Gases from some aerosol sprays, stain removers and household chemicals are corrosive to the

materials used in the heat pump system.

Do not store swimming pool chemicals, household cleaners, etc., near the water heater.

Ensure the air inlet and outlet louvres and air flow are not obstructed in any way at any time.

SAFETY

This water heater is supplied with a thermostat, two over-temperature energy cut-outs and a combination

temperature pressure relief valve. These devices must not be tampered with or removed. The water heater

must not be operated unless each of these devices is fitted and is in working order.

The operation of the over-temperature cut-out on the thermostat indicates a possibly dangerous situation. If

the over-temperature cut-out operates, it must not be reset and the water heater must be serviced by an

authorised or qualified person.

If the electrical supply conduit to the water heater is damaged, it must be replaced by an authorised person

in order to avoid a hazard. Phone your nearest Rheem Service Department or Accredited Service Agent to

arrange for an inspection.

The warranty can become void if relief valves or other safety devices are tampered with or if the

installation is not in accordance with these instructions.

typical maximum temperature

from heat pump operation;

booster temperature setting;

minimum recommended stored

water temperature

maximum recommended supply

temperature to bathrooms and

ensuites

ABOUT YOUR WATER HEATER

TO TURN OFF THE WATER HEATER

If you plan to be away from home for only a few nights, we suggest you leave the water heater switched on.

If it is necessary to turn off the water heater:

Switch off the electrical supply at the isolating switch to the water heater.

Close the cold water isolation valve at the inlet to the water heater.

TO TURN ON THE WATER HEATER

Open the cold water isolation valve fully on the cold water line to the water heater.

Switch on the electrical supply at the isolating switch to the water heater.

The heat pump may take up to 30 seconds to commence operating when the power supply is switched on.

The heat pump will only operate when the water in the storage tank requires heating, the heat pump

compressor is cool and power is available at the water heater. If the ambient air temperature is below the

minimum operating temperature of 5°C and the system calls for heating, the booster heating unit will operate

instead.

When the heat pump is operating, the system may switch to the booster heating unit if it detects that the

ambient air temperature is below the minimum operating temperature of 5°C. It may also switch back to heat

pump operation from the booster heating unit if it detects the ambient air temperature has moved back to

within the heat pump‟s operating temperature range.

Note: The heat pump may not turn on after having just completed a heating cycle and more hot water is

drawn from the water heater. The heat pump will wait until the compressor has cooled down and the

conditions for start up are favourable, in order to protect the compressor from damage. This may take up to

20 minutes from the last heating cycle.

TIMER CONTROL

A timer can be installed in the electrical circuit to the water heater. The timer must be weatherproof if it is

installed outdoors.

It may be desirable for the water heater not to operate between certain hours, such as during the peak

period when connected to a Time of Use electricity supply due to a more expensive tariff rate applying. A

timer will affect the operating times of both the heat pump circuit and the booster heating unit.

Note: The 551 310 model heat pump water heater is recommended for connection to a minimum 16 hour per

day power supply.

GOING ON HOLIDAYS

If you plan to be away from home for a few nights, we suggest you leave the water heater switched on. If you

plan to be away for a longer period, conserve energy by switching off the isolating switch to the water heater

(refer to “To Turn Off The Water Heater” on page 6).

HOW DO I KNOW IF THE WATER HEATER IS INSTALLED CORRECTLY?

Installation requirements are shown on page 19. The water heater must be installed by an authorised person

and the installation must comply with Standards AS/NZS 3500.4, AS/NZS 3000 and all local codes and

regulatory authority requirements. In New Zealand, the installation must conform with Clause G12 of the New

Zealand Building Code.

DOES THE WATER CHEMISTRY AFFECT THE WATER HEATER?

The water heater is suitable for most public water supplies, however some water chemistries may have

detrimental effects on the water heater and fittings. Refer to “Water Supplies” on page 9. If you are not

sure, have your water chemistry checked against the conditions described on pages 9 to 10.

HOW LONG WILL THE WATER HEATER LAST?

There are a number of factors that will affect the length of service the water heater will provide. These

include the water chemistry, the water pressure, temperature (inlet and outlet) and the water usage pattern.

However, your water heater is supported by a comprehensive warranty (refer to page 40).

ABOUT YOUR WATER HEATER

ENVIRONMENT

At the end of the service life of the heat pump water heater and prior to the water heater being disposed of, a

person qualified to work with refrigerants must recover the refrigerant from within the sealed system. The

refrigerant must not be vented to atmosphere. Phone your nearest Rheem Service Department or Accredited

Service Agent to arrange for an inspection.

REGULAR CARE

TEMPERATURE PRESSURE RELIEF VALVE

This valve is near the top of the water heater and is essential for its safe operation. It is possible for the valve

to release a little water through the drain line during each heating period. This occurs as the water is heated

and expands by approximately 1/50 of its volume.

Continuous leakage of water from the valve and its drain line may

indicate a problem with the water heater (refer to “Temperature

Pressure Relief Valve Running” on page 13).

Warning: Never block the outlet of this valve or its drain line for

any reason.

Operate the easing lever on the temperature pressure relief valve

once every six months. It is very important you raise and lower

the lever gently.

DANGER: Failure to do this may result in the water heater

cylinder failing, or under certain circumstances, exploding.

If water does not flow freely from the drain line when the lever is

lifted, then the water heater should be checked by your nearest

Rheem Service Department or Accredited Service Agent.

The temperature pressure relief valve should be checked for

performance or replaced at intervals not exceeding 5 years, or more

frequently in areas where there is a high incidence of water deposits

(refer to “Water Supplies” on page 9).

EXPANSION CONTROL VALVE

In many areas, including South Australia, Western Australia and

scaling water areas, an expansion control valve is fitted to the cold

water line to the water heater. The expansion control valve may

discharge a small quantity of water from its drain line during the

heating period instead of the temperature pressure relief valve on

the water heater.

Operate the easing lever on the expansion control valve once every six months. It is very important you

raise and lower the lever gently. The expansion control valve should be checked for performance or

replaced at intervals not exceeding 5 years, or more frequently in areas where there is a high incidence of

water deposits.

HEAT PUMP SYSTEM

It is recommended the evaporator and refrigeration system is checked every five years. In particularly dusty

environments, it may be necessary to have the heat pump system checked and cleaned of dust and residue

on a more regular basis.

water

heater

drain

line

lift until water

flows from the

drain line –

lower gently

WATER SUPPLIES

This water heater must be installed in accordance with this advice to be covered by the warranty.

This water heater is manufactured to suit the water conditions of most public reticulated water supplies.

However, there are some known water chemistries which can have detrimental effects on the water heater

and its operation and / or life expectancy. If you are unsure of your water chemistry, you may be able to

obtain information from your local water supply authority. This water heater should only be connected to a

water supply which complies with these guidelines for the water heater warranty to apply.

CHANGE OF WATER SUPPLY

The changing or alternating from one water supply to another can have a detrimental effect on the operation

and / or life expectation of a number of components in this water heater.

Where there is a changeover from one water supply to another, e.g. a rainwater tank supply, bore water

supply, desalinated water supply, public reticulated water supply or water brought in from another supply,

then water chemistry information should be sought from the supplier or it should be tested to ensure the

water supply meets the requirements given in these guidelines for warranty to apply.

ANODE

The vitreous enamel lined cylinder of the water heater is only covered by warranty when the total dissolved

solids (TDS) content in the water is less than 2500 mg/L and when the correct colour coded anode is

installed. The use of an incorrect colour coded anode will void the warranty and may shorten the life of the

storage tank.

The correct colour coded anode is as shown in the following table:

Total Dissolved Solids

Anode colour code

0 –40 mg/L

Green

40 –150 mg/L

Green or Black

150 –400 mg/L

Black

400 –600 mg/L

Black or Blue

600 –2500 mg/L

Blue

2500 mg/L +

Blue (no cylinder warranty)

The changing of anodes must be carried out by a plumber or authorised service person.

Note: Some water analysis reports may state the conductivity of the water rather than the level of total

dissolved solids. Conductivity, measured in microsiemens per centimetre (µS / cm), is directly proportional to

the TDS content of the water. TDS, in mg / L, is approximately 70% of the conductivity in µS / cm.

ANODE INSPECTION

The anode installed in the water heater will slowly dissipate whilst protecting the cylinder. The life of the

cylinder may be extended by arranging for an authorised person to inspect the anode and replace if required.

The suggested maximum time after installation when the anode should be inspected for this heat pump

water heater is 8 years.

For water supplies which are either softened, desalinated or where the water supply may alternate between

a water tank and a reticulated public supply or another supply, it is recommended the anode be inspected

3 years earlier than shown.

WATER SUPPLIES

CAUTION

If the water supply has a TDS greater than 150 mg/L and a green anode has not been changed to a black

anode, or if the TDS is greater than 600 mg/L and the anode has not been changed to a blue anode, there is

the possibility the anode may become overactive and hydrogen gas could accumulate in the top of the water

heater during long periods of no use. In areas where this is likely to occur, the installer should instruct the

householder on how to dissipate the gas safely.

If, under these conditions, the water heater has not been used for two or more weeks the following procedure

should be carried out before using any electrical appliances (automatic washing machines and dishwashers)

which are connected to the hot water supply.

The hydrogen, which is highly flammable, should be vented safely by opening a hot tap and allowing the

water to flow. There should be no smoking or naked flame near the tap whilst it is turned on. Any hydrogen

gas will be dissipated. This is indicated by an unusual spurting of the water from the tap. Once the water runs

freely, any hydrogen in the system will have been released.

SATURATION INDEX

The saturation index (SI) is used as a measure of the water‟s corrosive or scaling properties.

Where the saturation index is less than –1.0, the water is very corrosive and warranty does not apply to the

water heater. In a corrosive water supply, the water can attack copper parts and cause them to fail.

Where the saturation index exceeds +0.40, the water is very scaling and warranty does not apply to the

water heater.

Water which is scaling may be treated with a water softening device to reduce the saturation index of the

water.

CHLORIDE AND PH

Where the chloride level exceeds 250 mg/L warranty does not apply to the water heater. In a high chloride

water supply, the water can corrode stainless steel parts and cause them to fail.

Where the pH is less than 6.0 warranty does not apply to the water heater. pH is a measure of whether the

water is alkaline or acid. In an acidic water supply, the water can attack stainless steel parts and cause them

to fail.

Water with a pH less than 6.0 may be treated to raise the pH. The water supply from a rainwater tank in a

metropolitan area is likely to be corrosive due to the dissolution of atmospheric contaminants.

SUMMARY OF WATER CHEMISTRY ADVICE AFFECTING WARRANTY

The warranty of this water heater does not apply on the components listed below if the water heater is

connected at any time to a water supply with water chemistry of:

Water Chemistry

Component

Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) > 2500 mg/L

water heater cylinder

Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) not suitable for anode type

water heater cylinder

Saturation Index (SI) < -1.0

water heater

Saturation Index (SI) > +0.4

water heater

Chloride > 250 mg/L

water heater

pH < 6.0

water heater

Other manuals for 310 Series

This manual suits for next models

Table of contents

Other Rheem Water Heater manuals

Rheem

Rheem 260 Litre Instruction Manual

Rheem

Rheem Low NOX User manual

Rheem

Rheem PowerVent Commercial Gas Water Heater Reference manual

Rheem

Rheem RTG-66DV User manual

Rheem

Rheem GHE119SS User manual

Rheem

Rheem Xtreme GX90-550 User manual

Rheem

Rheem Xtreme GX90-550 User manual

Rheem

Rheem TRITON Installation guide

Rheem

Rheem AdvantagePlus HE119-130LP User manual

Rheem

Rheem ELECTRIC WATER HEATERS Quick start guide

Rheem

Rheem EZ-Link User manual

Rheem

Rheem PowerVent Series User manual

Rheem

Rheem Gas Heavy Duty Water Heater Models 265 Litre and 275... User manual

Rheem

Rheem PROG50-38N RH60 User manual

Rheem

Rheem 310 Series Technical Document

Rheem

Rheem Fury User manual

Rheem

Rheem Induro 6N3315M7 Technical Document

Rheem

Rheem Rheem RH-EVR Series User manual

Rheem

Rheem Iconic RTGH-S11i User manual

Rheem

Rheem GT-199PV User manual

Rheem

Rheem RTE 3 Technical Document

Rheem

Rheem 511161 Technical Document

Rheem

Rheem 50 Gallon User manual

Rheem

Rheem PRO40-40FY1 User manual

Popular Water Heater manuals by other brands

Kenmore

Kenmore 153.582400 Use & care guide

Applimo

Applimo Edel AIR Installation and operating instructions

STIEBEL ELTRON

STIEBEL ELTRON Eltronom SHU 5 S Operating and installation instructions

clage

clage E-Mini Series Operating and installation instructions

Toyotomi

Toyotomi Oil Miser OM-180 installation manual

Bradford White

Bradford White EF Series Service manual

Eccotemp

Eccotemp 40-H Use & care manual

Dimplex

Dimplex ECSd125-580 Installation and user instructions

Dux

Dux 32FCR6N installation manual

Toyotomi

Toyotomi Oil Miser OM-148 (Type D) Operation and maintenance instructions

Noritz

Noritz N-132M Owner's guide and installation manual

TESY

TESY GCV7/4S 10047 Instructions for use and maintenance

A.O. Smith

A.O. Smith Gphe 50 instruction manual

Koryo

Koryo KWHZF15Y user manual

Pentair

Pentair PSC-14-4-02 Installation and operation manual

GE 40M06AAG Energy guide

Thermor

Thermor AEROMAX SPLIT 2 Instructions for use

American Hometec

American Hometec AHQ-B03X Installation and operation manual