Pressure Buildup in Water System | Bradford-White Corp B4 guide

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Page 14	BRADFORD WHITE

2.6.6Pressure Buildup in Water System

The water utility supply meter may contain a

check valve, back flow preventer, or water pressure reducing valve that will create a closed water supply system. Contact the water supplier or local plumbing inspector on how to control this situation.

During the heating cycle of the heater, the water expands creating a pressure buildup in the water system. The pressure relief valve may discharge hot water under these conditions, causing a loss/waste of energy and a buildup of lime on the relief valve seat.

NOTE: Do not plug the relief valve.

There are two methods to prevent the relief valve from discharging hot water in a closed water system:

1.Install a pressure relief valve on the cold water supply line. Make sure that the discharge of this valve is directed to an open drain and protected from freezing.

2.Install a properly sized thermal expansion tank on the cold water supply line.

2.6.7 Pressure Relief Valve

The pressure relief valve must be installed in the tapped opening provided in the boiler header with its outlet piped to a drain or floor sink. Special attention must be given to relief valve settings in installations where the boiler is located on the ground floor of a tall building, or where the operating temperature of the boiler is above 210°F. In both instances, the static pressure of the system is elevated, and could cause the relief valve to leak. Where no special setting of the relief valve is ordered, the factory will furnish a 125 psi setting.

WARNING

Hot water can scald! Hot water can produce third degree burns in 6 seconds at 140°F (60°C) and in 30 seconds at 130°F (54°C).

2.6.8 Water Pressure

Keep the water pressure in the system above 30 psi (207 kPa). If the system pressure drops below 30 psi (207 kPa), it could damage the heater through lack of circulation. If for any reason, the water is turned off temporarily, to service the equipment for example, airlock could be a problem when the heater is turned back on. To eliminate the airlock, open the pressure relief valve (see Figure 23) and allow the air to bleed out until water starts to flow. As soon as full circulation is restored, the trapped air will be released through the hot water faucets.

Flow	Pressure
Switch	Relief Valve

High-Limit

Dry Well

Figure 23. Pressure relief valve.

2.6.9 Storage Tank Installation

1.Be sure the floor is structurally capable of supporting the tank when it is filled with water, and is waterproof.

2.Place the tank so that manholes, inspection covers, nameplates and drain valves are accessible.

3.Be sure the tank is suitable for the water in the system. Some water is corrosive and requires a protected tank. Most tanks are available with glass, plastic, or galvanized linings.

4.If the tank is glass-lined, it should be equipped with a suitable magnesium anode. It is a good practice to replace the anode when it is approximately 50 percent used. The factory warranty on a glass-lined tank may be void if a satisfactory anode is not in place at the time of a failure or if it is consumed by cathodic action.

5.The tank must be lined if a water softener is installed in the system.

6.Make sure the tank connections in the heater- tank circulating loop are the proper size (see Section 2.6.5). If tappings are smaller than the recommended pipe size, a larger pump may be required. Consult the factory if in doubt.

7.Install a pipe in the tank drain fitting that goes to a floor sink, and install a drain valve. If a floor sink is not available, install a hose bib.

8.Hot water tanks in an existing installation are likely to have silt deposits on the bottom. Therefore, it is important to extend the pump suction pipe in the tank to a position near the top. Pipe the return from the heater to the bottom of the tank.

Incorrect installation can cause rapid failure of water tanks due to electrolysis. Tanks must be installed with dialectric connections to electrically isolate the tank from stray current. Note that use of brass or bronze connectors does not replace the need for dialectric connections.

B4 specifications

Bradford-White Corp B4 is a remarkable water heater that embodies innovation, efficiency, and reliability. This product is designed to meet the stringent demands of both residential and commercial applications, making it a versatile choice for various users.

One of the standout features of the Bradford-White B4 is its high-efficiency operation. With advanced insulation technologies, this water heater minimizes heat loss, allowing it to perform efficiently while conserving energy. This efficiency translates to significant cost savings on utility bills, making the B4 an economical option over its lifespan.

Moreover, the B4 employs a robust and durable construction. Engineered with top-quality materials, it boasts a glass-lined tank that prevents corrosion and extends the longevity of the unit. This durable design ensures that users can rely on their water heater for many years, thus reducing the frequency of replacements and repairs.

The Bradford-White B4 is equipped with state-of-the-art technologies to enhance user convenience. Among these technologies is the ICON System, which features an advanced gas control. This control system allows for precise temperature management and ensures optimal performance. Additionally, the B4 comes with a built-in diagnostic system that provides insight into the operation of the unit, helping users identify potential issues before they escalate.

Another significant characteristic of the B4 is its variety of sizes and configurations. This versatility allows for easy installation in different spaces, whether it be a compact utility room or a larger commercial setup. Available in various capacities, the B4 can efficiently deliver hot water for various needs, catering to families of different sizes or businesses with diverse requirements.

Safety is also a top priority for Bradford-White. The B4 includes safety features such as a temperature and pressure relief valve, which acts as a safeguard against potential malfunctions. This adds an extra layer of peace of mind for users concerned about operational safety.

In summary, the Bradford-White Corp B4 combines high efficiency, durable construction, advanced technologies, versatility, and safety features. This makes it more than just a water heater—it is a dependable solution for ensuring hot water availability for various applications. Whether for a home or a commercial setting, the B4 represents a commitment to quality and performance that users have come to trust.