Operating Instructions

IMPORTANT

IT IS RECOMMENDED THAT A QUALIFIED SERVICE TECHNICIAN PERFORM THE INITIAL FIRING OF THE HEATER. AT THIS TIME THE USER SHOULD ASK THE TECHNICIAN ANY QUESTIONS IN REGARD TO THE OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE OF THE UNIT.

CAUTION

BEFORE PROCEEDING WITH THE OPERATION OF THE UNIT, MAKE SURE HEATER AND SYSTEM ARE FILLED WITH WATER AND ALL AIR IS EXPELLED FROM HEATER AND PIPING.

NEVER OPERATE THE HEATER WITHOUT FIRST BEING CERTAIN IT IS FILLED WITH WATER AND A TEMPERATURE AND A PRESSURE RELIEF VALVE IS INSTALLED IN THE RELIEF VALVE OPENING OF THE HEATER. DO NOT ATTEMPT TO OPERATE HEATER WITH COLD WATER INLET VALVE CLOSED.

FILLING:

1.Close the heater drain valve.

2.Open a nearby hot water faucet to permit the air in the system to escape.

3.Fully open the cold water inlet pipe valve allowing the heater and piping to be filled.

4.Close the hot water faucet as water starts to flow.

5.The heater is ready to be operated.

THE MAIN MANUAL GAS SHUTOFF VALVE MUST HAVE BEEN CLOSED FOR AT LEAST FIVE (5) MINUTES. THIS WAITING PERIOD IS AN IMPORTANT SAFETY STEP. ITS PURPOSE IS TO PERMIT GAS THAT MIGHT HAVE ACCUMULATED IN THE COMBUSTION CHAMBER TO CLEAR. IF YOU DETECT GAS AT THE END OF THIS PERIOD, DO NOT PROCEED WITH LIGHTING. RECOGNIZE THAT GAS ODOR, EVEN IF IT SEEMS WEAK, MAY INDICATE THE PRESENCE OF ACCUMULATED GAS SOMEPLACE IN THE AREA WITH A RISK OF FIRE OR EXPLOSION. SEE THE FRONT PAGE FOR STEPS TO BE TAKEN.

DO NOT USE THIS HEATER IF ANY PART HAS BEEN UNDER WATER. IMMEDIATELY CALL A QUALIFIED SERVICE TECHNICIAN TO INSPECT THE HEATER AND TO REPLACE ANY PART OF THE CONTROL SYSTEM AND ANY GAS CONTROL WHICH HAS BEEN UNDER WATER.

LIGHT THE UNIT IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS LABEL ATTACHED TO THE HEATER.

THESE INSTRUCTIONS ARE REPEATED IN THE LIGHTING AND OPERATING LABEL ILLUSTRATION ON PAGE 20 IN THIS MANUAL.

ADJUSTMENT PROCEDURE

Initial Start-up - AHCG3/HCG360T120 thru AHCG3/HCG3100T150

Main line gas pressure to the water heater for natural gas should be between a maximum of 10.5" (2.59Kpa for natural gas) W.C. (14.0"/3.45Kpa for propane) and a minimum as shown in Table 4: that is, for Natural Gas, 4.8 (1.18Kpa) W.C. and 8.5" (2.08Kpa) for Propane Gas. The inlet gas pressure must not exceed the maximum value. A service regulator must be installed within 10' (305 cm) of the unit.

1.Check gas line pressure with a manometer.

2.Check manifold pressure (see Table 4, page 20) using a pressure gauge (manometer) connected to the manifold pressure tap on the gas control valve, (Figure 15).

If full rate adjustment is required, remove cover screw from top of the gas control valve, (Figure 15).

Using a small screwdriver, turn adjusting screw clockwise to increase

or counterclockwise to decrease gas pressure to obtain 4.0" (1 kPa) for natural gas and 10.0" W.C. (2.5 Kpa) for L.P. Gas.

3.Cycle the burner on and off several times to check its operation.

4.Check the operation of the limit and operating controls.

5.Check the vent system seams and joints and ensure that there is no discharge of flue products into the room.

6.Check the input rate.

For appliance installation locations with elevations above 6500 feet (1982 meters) refer to HIGH ALTITUDE INSTALLATIONS section of this manual.

a.Attach a pressure gauge (manometer) to the manifold pressure tap (Figure 16) and refer to Table 4, page 20 for correct pressure.

b.Use this formula to “clock” the meter. Be sure other gas consuming appliances are not operating during this interval.

3600 X H = Btuh

Should it be necessary to adjust the gas pressure to the burner, to obtain the full input rate, the steps below should be followed:

T = Time in seconds to burn 1 cubic foot of gas. (With a stopwatch read the gas meter and measure the amount of time required for the heater to consume 1 cubic foot of gas.)

H = Heating value of gas (in Btu’s per cubic foot of gas). Btuh = Actual heater input rate, in Btuh.

EXAMPLE: (Using AHCG3/HCG3100T150 heater)

T = 25.25 seconds	3600	X 1050 = 150,000 Btuh (44 Kw)
H = 1050 Btu/ft.3	25.25	X 1050 = 150,000 Btuh (44 Kw)

BTUH = ?

For high altitude installations, compare result to the derated input required for the elevation at the installation location.

c.Remove the pressure regulator cover screw (Figure 16) and adjust the pressure by turning the adjusting screw with a small screwdriver. Do not exceed 4.0" (1 kPa) natural gas models and 10.0" W.C. (2.5Kpa) on the propane models.

Clockwise to increase gas pressure and input rate. Counterclockwise to decrease gas pressure and input rate.

d.“Clock” the meter as in step (b) above.

e.Repeat steps (c) and (d) until the specified input rate is achieved.

f.Turn the manual gas valve to “OFF”. Replace the pressure regulator cover screw. Remove the pressure gauge or manometer from the manifold pressure tap. Replace the set screw in the manifold pressure tap. If the gas pressure regulator cannot be adjusted to give the full input rating with sufficient gas pressure at the valve, check to ensure the unit is equipped with the correct orifice.

ADJUSTMENT PROCEDURE

Initial Start-up - AHCG3/HCG3100T199Tthru 100T250

Main line gas pressure to the water heater for natural gas should be between a maximum of 10.5" (2.59Kpa for natural gas) W.C. (14.0"/3.45Kpa for propane) and a minimum as shown in Table 4: that is, for Natural Gas 4" (.98Kpa) W.C. and 9.0" (1.97Kpa) for Propane Gas. The inlet gas pressure must not exceed the maximum value. A service regulator must be installed within 10' (305 cm) of the unit.

The AHCG3/HCG3100T199 and AHCG3/HCG3100T250 models incorporate a new gas control, which operates at 0"W.C. (0kPa) for both natural and propane gas. These models are configured prior to being shipped from the factory and no adjustments are necessary prior to startup. The controller monitors the air-flow and makes adjustments to the fan speed which in effect controls the amount of gas flow. Therefore, the unit will self-adjust to acquire the correct amount of input.

Once the unit is installed and filled with water and the inlet pressures confirmed, simply turn the switch "on" and observe operation. Cycle the unit

"off" and "on" several times to ensure proper operation.

AHCG3/HCG3100T250, AHCG3/HCG360T120 specifications

The American Water Heater AHCG3/HCG360T120 and AHCG3/HCG3100T250 are innovative models designed to meet the diverse needs of residential and commercial water heating. These state-of-the-art water heaters provide exceptional performance, efficiency, and reliability, making them ideal choices for consumers seeking long-lasting solutions for their hot water needs.

Both models are equipped with a robust design and advanced technology, ensuring effective operation and streamlining maintenance. The AHCG3/HCG360T120 has a capacity of 60 gallons, making it suitable for larger households or commercial applications, while the AHCG3/HCG3100T250 has a higher capacity of 100 gallons, providing ample hot water for multiple simultaneous uses.

One of the standout features of these water heaters is their high energy efficiency. Both models are designed to reduce energy consumption, translating to lower utility bills. The units are equipped with environmentally friendly insulation, which minimizes heat loss and maintains the temperature of the stored water longer. This construction not only conserves energy but also ensures consistent hot water delivery.

Innovative heating technology is another characteristic that sets the AHCG3/HCG series apart. These water heaters employ a combination of reliable heating elements and advanced electronics to provide precise temperature control. This technology ensures that users have access to hot water whenever they need it without significant waiting periods.

The American Water Heater AHCG series also emphasizes ease of use and installation. Each unit features user-friendly controls that allow for easy adjustment of temperatures and settings. The compact design ensures they fit comfortably in various spaces, making installation seamless in basements, utility rooms, or garages.

Durability and reliability are key aspects of these water heaters. Made with high-quality materials, they are designed to withstand the rigors of daily use while adhering to strict industry standards. Their robust construction minimizes the risk of leaks and ensures a long operational lifespan.

In summary, the American Water Heater AHCG3/HCG360T120 and AHCG3/HCG3100T250 models combine advanced technology, energy efficiency, and durability. These features make them excellent investments for anyone seeking a dependable hot water solution for their home or business, providing peace of mind and a reliable supply of hot water.