Use and Care Guide

5
• 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
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.
1-3/4”
max.
At least 2” greater
than the water heater and the
inlet air pipe.
Pipe to an
adequate drain
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.
FIGURE 1
Minimum Clearance
Locations
Front
24” min.
for service
Sides
Top to
ceiling
Vent
Sides
Back
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