American Water Heater 318281-000 Introduction, System Description, Preparing for the Installation

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INTRODUCTION

Thank You for purchasing this water heating system. Properly installed and maintained, it should give you years of trouble free service.

Abbreviations Found In This Instruction Manual:

•ANSI - American National Standards Institute

•ASME - American Society of Mechanical Engineers

•GAMA - Gas Appliance Manufacturers Association

•NEC - National Electrical Code

•NFPA - National Fire Protection Association

•UL - Underwriters Laboratories Inc.

SYSTEM DESCRIPTION

This Solar Water Heating System consists of four main parts — the solar collectors, the solar pump station, the solar storage tank, and the plumbing for the heat transfer fluid.

The solar pump station uses a pump to circulate a heat- transfer fluid through the “collector loop”. This collector loop includes the solar collectors, the fluid lines or “line- set” and a heat exchanger. The collector loop is a “closed loop”, meaning there is no contact of the heat transfer fluid with your potable water or with the atmosphere. The collector loop contains only a small volume of heat-trans- fer fluid which is non-toxic and freeze-protected to -30°F (Freeze tolerance limits are based upon an assumed set of environmental conditions). Though freeze protec- tion may not be necessary in all areas, the heat-transfer fluid also contains corrosion inhibitors which protect the system components, has an elevated boiling point, and is suitable throughout North America.

When exposed to sunlight, the solar collectors get hot. As the heat-transfer fluid passes through the collectors, it absorbs the heat and then travels down the line-set to the tank. The hot fluid passes through the heat exchanger and heat is transferred to the potable water. After giving up its heat to the potable water, the cool heat-transfer fluid is pumped back to the solar collectors to be heated again. Hot potable water is stored in the solar storage tank.

The auxiliary or back-up electric-heating guarantees hot water even under poor solar conditions (at night or when very cloudy). The minimum acceptable temperature set- point is specified in local plumbing codes.

You can save the most money on your water-heating bills by using the backup heater on your system as little as possible. If the sun shines brightly between 10 am and 3 pm, enough heat will normally be generated to keep the water hot throughout the rest of the day and night.

However, on days when the sky is cloudy or when large quantities of hot water are being used, we recommend leaving the backup heater turned on and set to 120° F to provide adequate hot water.

PREPARING FOR THE INSTALLATION

1.Read the “General Safety” section of this manual first and then the entire manual carefully. If you don’t follow the safety rules, the water heater will not operate properly. It could cause DEATH, SERIOUS BODILY INJURY, AND/OR PROPERTY DAMAGE.

This manual contains instructions for the installation, operation, and maintenance of the solar water heater. It also contains warnings throughout the manual that you must read and understand. All warnings and all instructions are essential to the proper operation of the water heater and your safety. READ THE ENTIRE

MANUAL BEFORE ATTEMPTING TO INSTALL OR OPERATE THE WATER HEATER.

2.The installation must conform with these instructions and the local code authority having jurisdiction and the requirements of the power company. In the absence of local code requirements follow NFPA-70, the National Electrical Code (current edition), which may be ordered from: National Fire Protection Association, 1 Batterymarch Park, Quincy, MA 02269.

3.If after reading this manual you have any questions or do not understand any portion of the instructions, call the local utility or the manufacturer whose name appears on the rating plate.

4.Carefully plan your intended placement of the water heater and collectors. INSTALLATION OR SERVICE OF THIS WATER HEATER REQUIRES ABILITY EQUIVALENT TO THAT OF A LICENSED TRADESMAN IN THE FIELD INVOLVED. PLUMBING AND ELECTRICAL WORK ARE REQUIRED.

Examine the location to ensure the water heater complies with the “Facts to Consider About the Location” section in this manual.

5.For California installation this water heater must be braced, anchored, or strapped to avoid falling or moving during an earthquake. See instructions for correct installation procedures. Instructions may be obtained from California Office of the State Architect, 400 P Street, Sacramento, CA 95814.

6.Massachusetts Code requires this water heater to be installed in accordance with Massachusetts 248-CMR 2.00: State Plumbing Code and 248-CMR 5.00.

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Contents Residential Solar Safe INSTALLATION, USE and Service Important DefinitionsGeneral Safety Introduction Preparing for the InstallationSystem Description Table of Contents System DIAGRAM/TYPICAL Installation Do not CAP Or PlugStorage Tank Installation TEMPERATURE-PRESSURE Relief ValveSystem Component Part Component FunctionLocating the Solar Water Heater Closed SYSTEM/THERMAL ExpansionWater Piping Wiring of Element Installation in Residential GaragesFilling the Solar Water Heater with Water Temperature Regulation Temperature SettingsThermostat Hotter Water can Scald Solar water heaters areTank Sensor Temperature AdjustmentDraining Element Replacement ElementAnode Water Heater SoundsCollector Location Solar Collector InstallationGeneral Considerations Collector Orientation Spanner Mounting Mounting Attaching Collector to Mounting Brackets Copper Cap Inlet Collector PipingCollector Piping Detail Sensor Mounting AT CollectorPipe Insulation Preparation of the Heat Transfer FluidPump Station Installation Safety InstructionsPump Station ComponentsSafety Equipment Mounting the solar pump station to the wallFunction Plumbing ConfigurationCheck valves Flowmeter START-UP and Operation of the Solar Pump StationLeak Detection FlushingFilling Control Instructions Pump Station Control InstructionsOperation and Function System Monitoring Display Channel indicationToolbar System ScreenStartup / System Settings OCN OCF Lang Troubleshooting Problem Check this Possible Cause Corrective ActionProblem Check this Possible Cause Corrective Action Problem Check this Possible Cause Corrective Action System Maintenance Repair Parts Repair Parts Schedule

318281-000 specifications

The American Water Heater 318281-000 is a highly regarded product in the realm of residential water heating, providing a perfect blend of efficiency, reliability, and advanced technology. Designed to deliver hot water conveniently and effectively, this model is suitable for various home sizes and needs.

One of the standout features of the 318281-000 is its energy efficiency. This water heater is built to comply with stringent energy regulations, helping households reduce their utility costs without compromising on performance. It typically features a high Energy Factor (EF) rating, indicating more efficient energy use for heating water. This technology not only helps in saving on energy bills but also contributes to environmental sustainability by reducing the carbon footprint of the home.

The 318281-000 employs advanced insulation techniques that minimize heat loss, ensuring that hot water is readily available whenever needed. Its design often includes a high-quality tank with foam insulation, providing better retention of heat and, consequently, more hot water availability.

Moreover, the water heater showcases a robust build quality, often incorporating a glass-lined tank for enhanced durability and protection against corrosion. This feature extends the life of the unit and reduces the need for frequent maintenance. In addition, a sacrificial anode rod is typically included to further prevent rust and enhance tank longevity.

The installation of the American Water Heater 318281-000 is designed to be user-friendly, with flexible venting options and straightforward plumbing requirements. Many models come ready for either natural gas or propane configurations, providing homeowners with choices that suit their specific needs.

Another appealing aspect of this water heater is the availability of modern safety features. It generally includes a pressure relief valve and a temperature dial, making it easier for users to manage and maintain safe operation levels.

In conclusion, the American Water Heater 318281-000 stands out in the crowded water heating market by marrying high efficiency, advanced technology, and user-centered design. Its ability to provide a consistent hot water supply while being environmentally friendly makes it an attractive option for homes looking to upgrade or replace their existing water heating systems. With its blend of durability and smart features, this model is indeed a wise investment for those seeking longevity and efficiency in their home hot water solutions.
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