Installation Guide
whl-647 Rev. 000 Rel. 000 Date 8.11.17
4
Part 2 - Prepare the Water Heater
COLD WEATHER HANDLING - If the water heater has been stored
in a very cold location (BELOW 0
o
F) before installation, handle with
care until the components come to room temperature. Failure to do
so could result in damage to the water heater.
Remove all sides of the shipping crate to allow the heater to be moved
into its installation location.
A. What’s in the Box
2. Choose a location for the water heater as centralized to the piping
and electrical system as possible. Also, locate the water heater and
domestic water piping where it will not be exposed to freezing
temperatures. All piping should be insulated. Additionally, place
the water heater so that the drain, controls, and inlets/outlets are
easily accessible.
NOTE: To save on heating costs and improve energy eciency
keep the distance between the water heater and xtures to a
minimum to reduce heat loss from excess piping and keep friction
loss at a minimum. Ensure all water heater piping is properly
insulated to minimize heat loss.
NOTE: If you do not provide the minimum clearances shown
in Figure 1, it might not be possible to service the water heater
without removing it from the space.
NOTE: In the State of California, the water heater must be braced,
anchored, or strapped to avoid moving during an earthquake.
Contact local utilities for code requirements in your area. Visit
http://www.dsa.dgs.ca.gov or call 1-916-445-8100 and request
instructions.
However, applicable local codes shall govern installation. For
residential water heaters of a capacity of greater than 52 gallons,
consult the local building jurisdiction for acceptable bracing
procedures.
3. Check area around water heater. Remove any combustible
materials, gasoline, and other ammable liquids.
Locate the water heater where any leakage from the relief valve,
related piping, tank, or connections will not result in damage to
surrounding areas or lower oors of the building. The water heater
should be located near a oor drain or installed in a drain pan.
Leakage damages ARE NOT covered by warranty.
This water heater is certied for indoor use only. DO NOT INSTALL
OUTDOORS. Outdoor installations ARE NOT covered by warranty.
Failure to install the water heater indoors could result in property
damage, severe personal injury, or death.
Figure 1 - Recommended Service Clearances
B. Locating the Water Heater
Components included with the water heater:
• Drain Valve
• Temperature and Pressure Relief Valve
• Insulation
• Hot Water Outlet
• Dip Tube
• Use and Care Manual and Warranty
• Conversion Labels (2) and Envelope
NOTE: Some components may ship factory installed. This depends on
water heater model.
1. Installation Area (Mechanical Room) Operating Conditions
• Ensure ambient temperatures are higher than 32
o
F / 0
o
C and
lower than 104
o
F / 40
o
C
• Avoid continuously high levels of humidity
• Never close existing ventilation openings
NOTE: When installing in a zero clearance location, it may not be
possible to read or view some product labeling. It is recommended to
make note of the water heater model and serial number.
NOTE: A combustible door or removable panel is acceptable front
clearance.
The service life of the water heater’s exposed metallic surfaces, such
as the junction box, is directly inuenced by proximity to damp and
salty marine environments. In such areas higher concentration levels
of chlorides from sea spray coupled with relative humidity can lead
to degradation of water heater components.
Failure of the water heater or components due to incorrect operating
conditions IS NOT covered by product warranty.
Incorrect ambient conditions can lead to damage to the
heating system and put safe operation at risk. Ensure that the
installation location adheres to the information included in
this manual. Failure to do so could result in property damage,
serious personal injury, or death.
This water heater must be installed upright in the vertical
position as described in this manual. DO NOT attempt to install
this water heater in any other orientation. Doing so will result
in improper water heater operation and property damage, and
could result in serious personal injury or death.