LOCATING THE NEW WATER HEATER

FACTS TO CONSIDER ABOUT THE LOCATION

Whether replacing an old water heater or putting the water heater in a new location, the following critical points must be observed.

This manufactured home gas-fired water heater is for use in a manufactured home. You should carefully choose an indoor location for the new water heater, because the placement is a very important consideration for the safety of your occupants in the building and for the most economical use of the appliance. This water heater is for use only in a manufactured home and not intended for outdoor installation.

This water heater has been designed and certified as a direct vent (sealed combustion) unit and no draft diverter is to be used.

Minimum clearances between the water heater and combustible and noncombustible construction are 0” from sides, 0” from back, 4” (10.16 cm) from front of jacket to closet door and 27” (68.58 cm) from top of jacket to combustible material. Minimum vent clearances: 6” (15.24 cm). Provide 24” (60.96 cm) front clearance for servicing and adequate clearance between the jacket top and ceiling for servicing the flue area.

The combustion and ventilation air flow must not be obstructed.

Combustion air must be supplied from outside the manufactured home by way of the furnished 3” diameter (30 Gallon [113.56 Liter] and 40 Gallon [151.42 Liter]) or 4” diameter (50 Gallon [189.27 Liter]) air intake duct assembly. A 3 1/2” (8.89 cm) diameter (30 Gallon [113.56 Liter] and 40 Gallon [151.42 Liter]) or 4 1/2” (11.436 cm) diameter (50 Gallon [189.27 Liter]) floor opening below the water heater is required to accommodate the air intake duct assembly. Weight of the water heater on duct gasket seals the water heater to air intake duct assembly.

When a manufactured home is skirted, an air intake opening with a minimum free area of 32 square inches (81.28 square cm) must be provided in the skirt. If the opening is covered by louvers or screen, the total free area must be 32 square inches (81.28 square cm). Other gas fired appliance in the home will require additional free air openings; consult these manufacturers for correct sizing, see Figure 3.

FIGURE 3.

If the manufactured home is installed over a basement or crawlspace, combustion air must be supplied from outside the manufactured home. The combustion air intake piping can be 3” (7.62 cm) PVC for 30 Gallon (113.56 Liter) and 40 gallon (151.42 Liter) models and 4” (10.16 cm) PVC for 50 Gallon (189.27 Liter) models. The air intake piping cannot exceed a total of 30 feet (9.14 m) including vertical

and horizontal runs and have no more than 3 elbows. All horizontal runs require adequate support at 3 1/2 feet (106.68 cm) intervals., see Figure 4.

FIGURE 4.

The water heater should be secured to the floor and to the wall of the enclosure with the mounting brackets provided. For bracket location refer to Securing Water Heater to Floor and Wall” in the “Installing the New Water heater” section.

Installation of the water heater must be accomplished in such a manner that if the tank or any connections should leak, the flow will not cause damage to the structure. For this reason, it is not advisable to install the water heater in an attic or upper floor. When such locations cannot be avoided, a suitable metal drain pan should be installed under the water heater. Metal drain pans are available at your local hardware store. Such a metal drain pan must have a minimum length and width of at least 2 inches (51 mm) greater that the water heater dimensions and must be piped to an adequate drain. The pan must not restrict combustion air flow. When a metal drain pan is required, see installation instructions on page 9.

Water heater life depends upon water quality, water pressure and the environment in which the water heater is installed. Water heaters are sometimes installed in locations where leakage may result in property damage, even with the use of a metal drain pan piped to a drain. However, unanticipated damage can be reduced or prevented by a leak detector or water shut-off device used in conjunction with a piped metal drain pan.

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A.O. Smith 315795-000 MH, FMD 40, FMD 50, FMD 30 Locating the NEW Water Heater, Facts to Consider about the Location
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FMD 40, FMD 50, 315795-000 MH, FMD 30 specifications

A.O. Smith is a renowned brand in the field of water heating solutions, offering a range of efficient and durable water heaters tailored to meet diverse consumer needs. Among its extensive lineup, the A.O. Smith FMD series showcases several commendable models, including the FMD 30, FMD 40, and FMD 50, each boasting unique features and advanced technologies.

The A.O. Smith FMD 30 is a compact water heater designed for smaller households or limited spaces. With a 30-gallon capacity, it is engineered to provide ample hot water for everyday needs such as bathing, washing dishes, and laundry. The heater employs advanced insulation technology, ensuring heat retention and energy efficiency. The thermostatic control system allows users to easily adjust the water temperature to their preference, ensuring comfort while promoting safety.

Moving to the A.O. Smith FMD 40, this model offers an increased capacity of 40 gallons, making it an ideal choice for medium-sized families. It incorporates A.O. Smith’s cutting-edge Durapower glass coating, which protects the tank from corrosion, ultimately extending its lifespan. The FMD 40 also features an enhanced heating element design that ensures rapid heating and consistent water temperature, making it perfect for bustling households.

The A.O. Smith FMD 50 takes things a step further, providing 50 gallons of hot water storage and designed for larger families or high-demand applications. This model integrates advanced technology features like a smart thermal control system that optimizes energy usage, ensuring that hot water is available when you need it without unnecessary power consumption. With robust construction materials, the FMD 50 is built to last, even in harsh conditions.

All models in the A.O. Smith FMD series prioritize user convenience. They come equipped with easy-to-read digital displays for monitoring temperature and status, along with built-in safety features such as automatic shut-off mechanisms. Installation is straightforward, and each unit adheres to energy efficiency standards, which help reduce utility bills while being environmentally friendly.

In summary, the A.O. Smith FMD series, including the FMD 30, FMD 40, and FMD 50, represents a commitment to quality and innovation. With their varying capacities and advanced technologies, these water heaters cater to a wide range of household needs, delivering reliable hot water solutions while maintaining energy efficiency and durability. Investing in an A.O. Smith FMD water heater not only guarantees comfort but also highlights a commitment to sustainability.
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