American Water Heater 318935-003 - Manual (Page 5)

5
IMPORTANT: 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 homeowner 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 an adequate indoor drain.
The discharge pipe must terminate a maximum of six
inches above a floor drain or external to the building. In
cold climates, it is recommended that the discharge pipe
be terminated at an adequate drain inside the building.
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. Under
no circumstances will the manufacturer or seller of this
water heater be held liable for any water damage which
is caused by your failure to follow these instructions.
• 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.
• Do not locate the water heater near an air-moving
device. The operation of air-moving devices such as
exhaust fans, ventilation systems, clothes dryers,
fireplaces, etc., can affect the proper operation of
the water heater. Special attention must be given to
conditions these devices may create. Flow reversal of
flue gases may cause an increase of carbon monoxide
inside of the dwelling.
• If the water heater is located in an area that is
subjected to lint, dirt, and oil, it may be necessary
to periodically clean the flame-trap (see “External
Inspection & Cleaning of the Flame-trap” section).
Reverse flow
of gases
Exhaust
Fan
Figure 1A
Air-moving
Devices
Back
Sides
Sides
Top
View
Top
to
ceiling
Vent
Front
24” minimum
for service
Figure 2
Minimum Clearance
Locations
Clearances and Accessibility
NOTE: Minimum clearances from combustible surfaces 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 three inches (76.2mm) in any direction; or if in
an alcove or closet installation, the entire floor must be
covered by the panel.
• Figure 2 may be used as a reference guide to locate
the specific clearance locations. A minimum of 24
inches of front clearance should be provided for
inspection and service.
State of California
NOTE: For California installation, this water heater must be
braced, anchored, or strapped to avoid falling or moving
during an earthquake. Correct installation procedure in-
structions may be obtained from California’s Office of the
State Architect, 1102 Q street, Suite 5100, Sacramento, CA
95811. Instructions can also be downloaded to your com-
puter at www.dsa.dgs.ca.gov/Pubs.
METAL
DRAIN
PAN
AT LEAST 2” GREATER THAN THE
DIAMETER OF THE WATER HEATER. PIPED TO AN
ADEQUATE DRAIN
6” MAXIMUM
AIR GAP
DISCHARGE PIPE
(DO NOT CAP OR PLUG)
Figure 1
Drain Pan Installation