Specifications

TM016 Rheem Gas Permanent Pilot Service Instructions
D.O.I: 01/2006
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14
Common Faults
When a complaint is lodged about the performance of a hot water system there are a
number of causes that should be checked and eliminated. In an attempt to pinpoint the
most likely cause it is important to discuss with the customer their reasons for the
complaint, the duration of the problem, any change in circumstances or usage and recent
weather conditions. This information in conjunction with the following listed common
complaints will assist in locating the most likely cause. All procedures assume there is
water flowing through the water heater.
Excessive hot water usage
The complaints of insufficient hot water and no hot water can on many occasions be
attributed to hot water usage exceeding the capacity of the water heater to provide hot
water.
When first attending a call of this nature it is essential to establish the probable hot water
usage by querying the usage habits of the household and compare this with the potential
delivery of the model water heater installed. It can then be established if the usage is
within or outside the capacity of the model. The areas to consider for excessive usage are:
1. Automatic washing machines.
2. Showers exceeding 11 litres/minute for mixed water and 5 minutes duration.
3. Two or more showers operating at the same time.
4. Change of occupancy or number of persons increased.
5. High water pressure area causing excessive T&PR discharge.
6. Plumbing leaks.
Water hammer
A water heater will not cause water hammer, however valves associated with the water
heater may be the source of the problem i.e. cold water stopcock, non-return valve, T&PR
valve or relief valve.
Most water hammer problems are associated with plumbing, hot and cold, or appliances
i.e. solenoid valves, ball cocks, loose pipes, sharp angles in pipe work, faulty or worn valve
parts or neighbouring equipment.
High water pressure areas will have more complaints of this nature. The use of a pressure-
limiting valve (PLV) to reduce the household water pressure will usually solve most
problems.
Hot water plumbing leaks
If hot water has not been used for a period of time, feeling the temperature of the hot water
line may give an indication of water flow if the pipe is warm. The method of checking for
plumbing leaks is:
1. Turn off the stopcock on the cold water supply to the water heater.
2. Open a hot tap to ensure the flow of water stops. This will confirm the stopcock is
operating correctly.
3. Turn off the hot tap.
4. Turn on the stopcock to make up the water pressure in the cylinder and then turn the
stopcock off again.
5. Wait approximately five (5) minutes and then do either of the following:
a. With your ear close to the stopcock, turn it on slightly and listen for any water
passing. If there are no leaks water should not pass.
b. Open a hot tap while listening for any pressure release. If there is a pressure
release there will be no leaks in the plumbing system.