Rheem HG Operating the water heater, Safety Precautions, Water Temperature Setting

Safety Instructions

Operating the water heater.

CAUTION: Hydrogen gas can be produced in a hot water system served by this water heater that has not been used for a long period of time (generally two weeks or more). HYDROGEN GAS IS EXTREMELY FLAMMABLE!! To dissipate such gas and to reduce risk of injury, it is recommended that the hot water faucet be opened for several minutes at the kitchen sink before using any electrical appliance connected to the hot water system. If hydrogen is present, there will be an unusual sound such as air escaping through the pipe as the water begins to flow. Do not smoke or use an open flame near the faucet at the time it is open.

Safety Precautions

Operating Instructions Installation Instructions

Do turn off manual gas shut-off valve if water heater has been subjected to over heating, fire, flood, physical damage or if the gas supply fails to shut off.

Do Not turn on water heater unless it is filled with water.

Do Not turn on water heater if cold water supply shut-off valve is closed.

Do Not allow combustible materials such as newspaper, rags or mops to accumulate near water heater.

Do Not store or use gasoline or other flammable vapors and liquids, such as adhesives or paint thinner, in vicinity of this or any other appliance. If such flammables must be used, open doors and windows for ventilation, and all gas burning appliances in the vicinity should be shut off including their pilot lights, to avoid vapors lighting.

NOTE: Flammable vapors may be drawn by air currents from surrounding areas to the water heater.

If there is any difficulty in understanding or following the Operating Instructions or the

Care and Cleaning section, it is recommended that a qualified person or serviceman perform the work.

Troubleshooting Tips Care and Cleaning

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 on the front of the thermostat.

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.

To comply with safety regulations the thermostat was factory set at 120°F. or less where local codes require. This is the recommended starting point.

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. This label is located on the water heater near the thermostat access panel.

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 below may be used as a guide in determining the proper water temperature for your home.

Customer Service

Time/Temperature Relationship in Scalds

Temperature	Time To Produce a Serious Burn
120°F.	More than 5 minutes
125°F.	11⁄2 to 2 minutes
130°F.	About 30 seconds
135°F.	About 10 seconds
140°F.	Less than 5 seconds
145°F.	Less than 3 seconds
150°F.	About 11⁄2 seconds
155°F.	About 1 second

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Table courtesy of Shriners Burn Institute