Locating the Water Heater

CAUTION

Property Damage Hazard

All water heaters eventually leak.

Do not install without adequate drainage.

When installing the heater, consideration must be given to proper location. Location selected should be as close to the stack or chimney as practicable, with adequate air supply and as centralized with the piping system as possible.

Fire or Explosion Hazard

Do not store or use gasoline or other flammable vapors and liquids in the vicinity of this or any other appliance.

Avoid all ignition sources if you smell gas.

Do not expose water heater controls to excessive gas pressure.

Use only the gas shown on the water heater rating label.

Maintain required clearances to combustibles.

Keep ignition sources away from faucets after extended periods of non-use.

Read instruction manual before

installing, using or servicing

water heater.

THERE IS A RISK IN USING FUEL BURNING APPLIANCES SUCH AS GAS WATER HEATERS IN ROOMS, GARAGES OR OTHER AREAS WHERE GASOLINE, OTHER FLAMMABLE LIQUIDS OR ENGINE DRIVEN EQUIPMENT OR VEHICLES ARE STORED, OPERATED OR REPAIRED. FLAMMABLE VAPORS ARE HEAVY AND TRAVEL ALONG THE FLOOR AND MAY BE IGNITED BY THE HEATER’S IGNITER OR MAIN BURNER FLAMES CAUSING FIRE OR EXPLOSION. SOME LOCAL CODES PERMIT OPERATION OF GAS APPLIANCES IN SUCH AREAS IF THEY ARE INSTALLED 18” OR MORE ABOVE THE FLOOR. THIS MAY REDUCE THE RISK IF LOCATION IN SUCH AN AREA CANNOT BE AVOIDED.

DO NOT INSTALL THIS WATER HEATER DIRECTLY ON A CARPETED FLOOR. A FIRE HAZARD MAY RESULT. Instead

the water heater must be placed on a metal or wood panel extending beyond the full width and depth by at least 3 inches in any direction. If the heater is installed in a carpeted alcove, the entire floor shall be covered by the panel. Also, see the DRAINING requirements in MAINTENANCE Section.

THE HEATER SHALL BE LOCATED OR PROTECTED SO IT IS NOT SUBJECT TO PHYSICAL DAMAGE BY A MOVING VEHICLE.

FLAMMABLE ITEMS, PRESSURIZED CONTAINERS OR ANY OTHER POTENTIAL FIRE HAZARDOUS ARTICLES MUST NEVER BE PLACED ON OR ADJACENT TO THE HEATER. OPEN CONTAINERS OR FLAMMABLE MATERIAL SHOULD NOT BE STORED OR USED IN THE SAME ROOM WITH THE HEATER.

THE HEATER MUST NOT BE LOCATED IN AN AREA WHERE IT WILL BE SUBJECT TO FREEZING.

LOCATE IT NEAR A FLOOR DRAIN. THE HEATER SHOULD BE LOCATED IN AN AREA WHERE LEAKAGE FROM HEATER OR CONNECTIONS WILL NOT RESULT IN DAMAGE TO ADJACENT AREA OR TO LOWER FLOORS OF THE STRUCTURE.

WHEN SUCH LOCATIONS CANNOT BE AVOIDED, A SUITABLE DRAIN PAN SHOULD BE INSTALLED UNDER HEATER. Such pans should be fabricated with sides at least 2” deep, with length and width at least 2” greater than diameter of heater and must be piped to an adequate drain. Pan must not restrict combustion air flow.

Clearances

This water heater is approved for installation on combustible flooring in an alcove with minimum clearance from combustion construction as indicated in Figure 7 and Table 4.

In all installations the minimum combustible clearances from vent piping shall be 6” (15.2 cm). Vent piping passing through a combustible wall or ceiling must be a continuous run (no joints) and retain 6” (15.2 cm) clearance unless an approved reducing thimble is used.

A service clearance of at least 24” (61 cm) should be maintained from serviceable parts.

The units are approved for installation with side, rear and ceiling clearances as indicated below:

Table 4. Minimum Clearances to Combustible or non-combustible contruction

Model

"A" Right Side

"B" Left Side

"C" Back

"D" Ceiling

BCL3 95T199

0"

0"

0"

12"

6NOX

0 cm

0 cm

0 cm

30.5 cm

(A)BCL3

0"

0"

0"

12"

85T275 6NOX

0 cm

0 cm

0 cm

30.5 cm

(A)BCL3

0"

0"

0"

12"

85T390 6NOX

0 cm

0 cm

0 cm

30.5 cm

9

Page 9
Image 9
American Water Heater BCL3 95T199 6NOX, BCL3 85T390 6NOX, BCL3 85T275 6NOX Locating the Water Heater, Clearances

BCL3 95T199 6NOX, BCL3 85T390 6NOX, BCL3 85T275 6NOX specifications

American Water Heater Company has been a leader in the production of high-quality water heaters for residential and commercial use. Among their acclaimed collection are three notable models: the BCL3 85T275 6NOX, BCL3 85T390 6NOX, and BCL3 95T199 6NOX. Each of these models is meticulously designed, providing efficient heating solutions while prioritizing safety and environmental responsibility.

The BCL3 85T275 6NOX is an advanced model that offers a remarkable 275,000 BTU output, making it suitable for a variety of applications, from single-family homes to larger commercial settings. This unit features a powerful water heating capacity and is equipped with a robust heat exchanger that maximizes thermal efficiency. One of its key technological innovations is the low nitrogen oxide (NOX) emissions system, which significantly reduces harmful emissions, thereby complying with stringent environmental standards.

Similarly, the BCL3 85T390 6NOX enhances performance with a higher BTU output of 390,000. This capacity allows it to effectively serve larger facilities with higher demand for hot water. The technology behind this model includes an automatic flue damper that optimizes energy use by adjusting the airflow, resulting in improved combustion efficiency. Additionally, its durable construction ensures long service life, catering to the needs of both residential users and commercial operations.

The BCL3 95T199 6NOX, with its 199,000 BTU capacity, combines efficiency with versatility. This unit is designed for a wide range of water heating needs, providing an excellent option for both medium-sized homes and smaller commercial setups. Its unique design incorporates advanced insulation materials that help retain heat longer, thereby enhancing overall efficiency. Like its counterparts, this model is equipped with advanced NOX reduction technology, which makes it an environmentally friendly choice.

All three models share a common theme of reliability and efficiency. Their advanced control systems enable precise temperature management, allowing users to set their desired hot water temperatures with ease. Furthermore, each unit is designed with safety features such as a high-temperature limit switch and electronic ignition, ensuring safe operation.

In conclusion, the American Water Heater BCL3 series — featuring the BCL3 85T275 6NOX, BCL3 85T390 6NOX, and BCL3 95T199 6NOX — showcases the company's commitment to innovation, quality, and environmental stewardship. These models not only meet the demanding needs of consumers but also contribute to a more sustainable future with their low emissions and efficient systems. Whether for residential or commercial use, they are designed to deliver reliable performance year after year.