Technical data

REGULAR CARE
11
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 17).
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. Refer to “Minor Six Month Maintenance” on page 10. It is very
important the lever is raised and lowered gently.
Warning: Failure to do this may result in the water heater cylinder failing.
Warning: Exercise care to avoid any splashing of water, as water
discharged from the drain line will be hot. Stand clear of the drain line’s point
of discharge when operating the valve’s lever.
If water does not flow freely from the drain line when the lever is lifted, then the
water heater must be checked. Phone Rheem Service or their nearest
Accredited Service Agent to arrange for an inspection.
The temperature pressure relief valve should be 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 12).
EXPANSION CONTROL VALVE
In many areas, including Queensland, South Australia, Western Australia and scaling water areas, it is
mandatory 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.
The easing lever on the expansion control valve should be operated once every six months. Refer to “Minor
Six Month Maintenance” on page 10. It is very important the lever is raised and lowered gently. If water
does not flow freely from the drain line when the lever is lifted, then the water heater should be checked by
Rheem Service or their nearest Accredited Service Agent. 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.
COLLECTOR GLASS
Ensure the glass on your solar collectors is free of dust, salt spray or any other matter, which may reduce the
effectiveness of the solar collectors. If the collector glass becomes dirty, hose down or if the solar collectors
are accessible, wash the collector glass with water and a soft brush when the solar collectors are cool.
Have any trees trimmed which may shade the solar collectors.
Rheem solar collectors have passed the AS/NZS 2712 requirements for resistance to hailstone damage, so it
is not normally necessary to fit a guard to a collector. Stone Guards are available to provide a level of protection
to the collectors against vandalism or accidental damage. Contact Rheem or your local Rheem Solar Water
Heater Distributor for details.
GENERAL MAINTENANCE
The jacket of the water heater can be cleaned with a soft cloth and warm mild soapy water. Under no
circumstances should abrasive materials or powders be used. On a regular basis, inspect around the water
heater for insect infestations, such as ants. Insects may look for a warm place to nest, particularly in wet
weather. Insects encroaching into or nesting in the water heater can interfere with the operation of the water
heater and also damage components. Spray insecticide around the water heater if necessary to rid the area
of insects.
water
heater
drain
line
lift until water
flows from
the drain line
– lower gently