American Water Heater 50-60K BTU, 40-42K BTU installation instructions Clearances and Accessibility

CAUTION - PROPERTY DAMAGE HAZARD

The water heater should be located in an area where leakage of the tank or connections will not result in damage to the area adjacent to the water heater or to lower floors of the structure. Due to the normal corrosive action of the water, the tank will eventually leak after an extended period of time. Also any external plumbing leak, including those from improper installation, may cause early failure of the tank due to corrosion if not repaired. If the owner/operator is uncomfortable with making the repair a qualified person should be contacted. A suitable metal drain pan should be installed under

the water heater as shown below, to help protect the property from damage which may occur from condensate formation or leaks in the piping connections or tank.

The pan must limit the water level to a maximum depth of 1-3/4” and be two inches wider than the heater and piped to an adequate drain. NOTE: The pan must not restrict combustion air flow. Locate the water heater near a suitable indoor drain. Outside drains are subject to freezing temperatures which can obstruct the drain line. The piping should be at least 3/4” ID and pitched for proper drainage.

Pipe to an adequate drain

1-3/4”

max.

At least 2” greater

than the water heater and the

inlet air pipe.

•The water heater should be located in an area not subject to freezing temperatures. Water heaters located in unconditioned spaces (i.e., attics, basements, etc.) may require insulation of the water piping and drain piping to protect against freezing. The drain and controls must be easily accessible for operation and service. Maintain proper clearances as specified on the data plate.

Clearances and Accessibility

FIGURE 1
Minimum Clearance	Vent
Locations	Top to
	ceiling
Back
	Sides
	Sides
	Front
	24” min.
	for service
Top View

NOTE: Minimum clearances from combustible materials are stated on the data plate adjacent to the gas control valve/thermostat of the water heater.

The water heater is certified for installation on a combustible floor.

•IMPORTANT: If installing over carpeting, the carpeting must be protected by a metal or wood panel beneath the water heater. The protective panel must extend beyond the full width and depth of the water heater by at least 3 inches (76.2mm) in any direction or if in a alcove or closet installation, the entire floor must be covered by the panel.

WARNING

Fire Hazard

For continued protection against the risk of fire:

Do not install water heater on carpeted floor.

Do not operate water heater if flood damaged.

•Figure 1 may be used as a reference guide to locate the specific clearance locations. A minimum of 24 inches of front clearance and 4 inches on each side should be provided for inspection and service.

State of California

NOTE: The water heater must be braced, anchored, or strapped to avoid moving during an earthquake. Contact local utilities for code requirements in your area or call 1-800-456-9805 and request instructions.

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