Introducing the Comprehensive Guide to Installing a Rheem Electric Water Heater

Installing a Rheem electric water heater is a task that requires meticulous attention to detail and adherence to safety protocols. This comprehensive guide will provide you with step-by-step instructions, ensuring a successful and trouble-free installation. Whether you are a seasoned DIY enthusiast or a novice homeowner, this guide will equip you with the knowledge and confidence to tackle this project with ease.

Planning and Preparation: Setting the Stage for Success

Before embarking on the installation process, it is crucial to gather the necessary tools and materials:

Electric Rheem Water Heater
Wire nuts
Electrical tape
Plumber’s tape
Adjustable wrench
Screwdriver
Utility knife
Level

Additionally, safety should be your utmost priority:

Turn off the electricity at the electrical panel before starting any work.
Shut off the water supply to the water heater.
Wear appropriate safety gear, including gloves and safety glasses.

Selecting the Right Water Heater

Choosing the ideal electric Rheem water heater for your needs requires careful consideration of several key factors:

Capacity

The storage capacity of the water heater determines the amount of hot water available at any given time. Consider the number of people in your household, their average water usage, and the time of day when hot water demand is highest. Typically, 30-40 gallons of capacity is suitable for small households, while 50-60 gallons is more appropriate for larger ones with higher hot water demands.

Energy Efficiency

Electric water heaters vary in their energy efficiency, which is measured by Energy Factor (EF) ratings. The higher the EF rating, the more efficient the water heater is at converting electricity into hot water. Look for models with EF ratings of 0.9 or higher to save on energy costs.

Element Type

Electric water heaters use either standard or incoloy elements to heat the water. Standard elements are less expensive but may corrode more quickly in areas with hard water. Incoloy elements are more resistant to corrosion but typically cost more. If you have hard water, an incoloy element is recommended.

Features

Some electric Rheem water heaters offer additional features, such as:

Programmable timers to set specific heating schedules
Leak detection sensors to alert you to potential leaks
Self-diagnostic capabilities to troubleshoot any issues

Consider these features and choose a water heater that meets your specific needs and preferences.

Preparing the Installation Site

Prior to installing your Rheem electric water heater, it’s crucial to ensure that the installation site is adequately prepared to accommodate the unit and its components. Here’s a comprehensive guide to assist you with this important step:

Power Supply and Electrical Wiring

As an electric water heater, the Rheem unit requires a dedicated electrical circuit to operate safely and efficiently.
• Ensure the circuit is rated for the wattage requirement of the water heater, and that it includes a proper ground wire.
• Confirm that the electrical wiring is copper, and that it meets the specified gauge size for the circuit and distance to the electrical panel.
• Install a double-pole circuit breaker or fuse on the circuit to provide adequate protection against overloads and short circuits.
• Ensure the electrical panel has the necessary amperage capacity to handle the additional load of the water heater.

Water Supply and Drain Connections

The water heater requires a cold water inlet and a hot water outlet for operation. Additionally, a drain valve is necessary for periodic maintenance and draining of the tank.

• Locate the cold water supply line and install a shutoff valve to isolate the water supply when needed.
• Connect a flexible water connector to the shutoff valve and lead it to the cold water inlet on the water heater.
• Install a temperature and pressure relief valve on the cold water inlet to prevent excessive water pressure or temperature buildup.
• Connect the hot water outlet on the water heater to the hot water piping system using a flexible water connector.
• Install a drain valve at the bottom of the water heater to allow for draining during maintenance or replacement.

Mounting and Support Structure

The Rheem electric water heater must be securely mounted on a solid and level surface to ensure stability and prevent accidental movement.

• Determine the appropriate location for the water heater based on the available space and proximity to the water and electrical connections.
• Create a sturdy mounting platform, such as a concrete pad or a metal stand, to support the weight of the water heater and its contents.
• Install the water heater on the mounting platform and secure it using the provided bolts or brackets.
• Check the water heater’s level using a spirit level and adjust the mounting platform as needed to ensure it is level.

Disconnecting the Old Water Heater

Before you can install your new Rheem electric water heater, you’ll need to disconnect the old one. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Turn off the water supply

Locate the water supply valves for the hot and cold water lines connected to the water heater. Turn the valves clockwise to close them completely.

2. Turn off the electricity

Go to your home’s electrical panel and locate the circuit breaker or fuse that controls the water heater. Turn it off to cut the power supply to the heater.

3. Drain the water heater

Connect a garden hose to the drain valve at the bottom of the water heater. Open the valve and let the water drain into a bucket or drain pan. This may take several minutes.

**Note:** Be careful when draining the water, as it will be hot. Consider using a hose that can withstand hot water temperatures, such as a garden hose or a washing machine hose.

Once the water has stopped draining, close the drain valve.

4. Disconnect the water lines

Use a wrench to disconnect the hot and cold water lines from the water heater. Be careful not to damage the fittings.

5. Disconnect the electrical wires

Locate the electrical wires connected to the water heater. Use a screwdriver to loosen the screws holding the wires in place and then disconnect them. Make sure to keep track of which wire goes where.

6. Remove the old water heater

Once the water lines and electrical wires are disconnected, you can remove the old water heater. Be careful not to damage the walls or floor when lifting it out.

Installing the New Rheem Water Heater

Safety Precautions

Before you begin, ensure your safety by turning off the gas supply, water supply, and electricity to the old water heater. Wear appropriate protective gear, including gloves, eye protection, and a dust mask.

Preparing the Water Heater

Inspect the new water heater to ensure it is undamaged and has all the necessary components. Connect the cold water inlet pipe to the bottom port of the water heater and the hot water outlet pipe to the top port. Wrap the pipe connections with Teflon tape to prevent leaks.

Electrical Connections

Connect the electrical wires from the new water heater to the appropriate terminals in the breaker box. Ensure the wires are securely tightened and insulated. It is highly recommended to hire a licensed electrician for this step to ensure proper and safe installation.

Mounting the Water Heater

Carefully lift the new water heater into place and secure it to the wall or floor using the supplied brackets. Ensure the water heater is level and securely mounted to prevent any movement or vibration. If the water heater will be placed on a platform, make sure it is sturdy and can support the weight of the water heater and water.

Filling the Water Heater

Turn on the water supply to the water heater. Open a hot water faucet in the house to allow air to escape from the water heater and pipes. Continue filling the water heater until water flows out of the faucet.

Lighting the Pilot Light

Locate the pilot light assembly on the water heater. Hold a lighted match or lighter near the pilot light and turn the gas valve to the “on” position. The pilot light should ignite and stay lit. If it does not, repeat the process.

Testing the Water Heater

Turn on the hot water faucets in the house to check if hot water is flowing properly. Adjust the temperature setting on the water heater as desired. Monitor the water temperature for any fluctuations or sudden changes.

How To Install An Electric Rheem Waterheater

Connecting the Electrical Wiring

Once you have the water heater in place, you need to connect the electrical wiring. This is a relatively simple process, but it’s important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully.

First, you need to identify the electrical terminals on the water heater. There should be two terminals, one for the incoming hot wire and one for the outgoing neutral wire.

Next, you need to connect the wires to the terminals. The hot wire should be connected to the terminal marked “L” or “Line,” and the neutral wire should be connected to the terminal marked “N” or “Neutral.”

Once the wires are connected, you need to secure them in place. You can do this by using wire nuts or electrical tape.

Finally, you need to turn on the power to the water heater. You should hear a click as the water heater turns on.

5. Troubleshooting Electrical Problems

If you’re having trouble getting your water heater to work, there are a few things you can check.

Problem	Possible Cause	Solution
Water heater won’t turn on	Blown fuse or tripped circuit breaker	Replace the fuse or reset the circuit breaker
Water heater is not heating water	Thermostat is set too low	Adjust the thermostat to a higher setting
Water heater is leaking water	Loose connection or damaged pipe	Tighten the connection or replace the pipe

Connecting the Water Lines

Once your water heater is in place, it’s time to connect the water lines. Here’s how to do it:

1. Install the Inlet and Outlet Pipes

Connect the cold water inlet pipe to the inlet valve on the water heater. Then, connect the hot water outlet pipe to the outlet valve on the water heater.

2. Tighten the Pipe Connections

Use a wrench to tighten the pipe connections. Make sure the connections are snug, but don’t overtighten them.

3. Install the Pressure Relief Valve

Install the pressure relief valve on the outlet side of the water heater. The pressure relief valve prevents the water pressure from getting too high and bursting the tank.

4. Install the Expansion Tank

Install the expansion tank on the cold water inlet line. The expansion tank absorbs the excess water pressure created when the water heater heats up.

5. Turn On the Water Supply

Turn on the cold water supply to the water heater. Check for any leaks at the pipe connections.

6. Bleed the Air from the System

Open a hot water faucet in the house. Let the water run until the air is purged from the system. This may take a few minutes.

7. Check the Water Temperature

Once the air is purged from the system, check the water temperature at a hot water faucet. Adjust the temperature setting on the water heater if necessary.

Table: Water Line Connections for Rheem Electric Water Heaters

Inlet Water Line	Outlet Water Line
3/4-inch copper	3/4-inch copper
1-inch PEX	1-inch PEX
3/4-inch CPVC	3/4-inch CPVC

Installing the Drain Valve

The drain valve is a critical component of your water heater, allowing you to drain the tank for maintenance, repairs, or replacement. Here’s a detailed guide on how to install the drain valve:

7. Connect the Discharge Hose

Attach a discharge hose to the drain valve. The hose should be long enough to reach a nearby drain or exterior location. Use a hose clamp to secure the hose to the valve.

Here are some additional tips for connecting the discharge hose:

Tip	Explanation
Use a flexible hose	This will allow you to easily maneuver the hose and position it where needed.
Protect the hose from damage	Avoid pinching, kinking, or crushing the hose as this can restrict water flow.
Direct the discharge safely	Ensure that the discharge hose directs water away from walls, furniture, and electrical equipment.

Filling the Water Heater

Once the water heater is installed, it must be filled with water before it can be turned on. To fill the water heater, follow these steps:

1. Turn on the cold water supply valve.

The cold water supply valve is usually located near the bottom of the water heater. Turn the valve clockwise to open it.

2. Open a hot water faucet.

Opening a hot water faucet will allow air to escape from the water heater as it fills.

3. Wait for the water heater to fill.

It may take several minutes for the water heater to fill. You can check the water level by opening the pressure relief valve on the top of the water heater. When water starts to come out of the pressure relief valve, the water heater is full.

4. Close the pressure relief valve.

Once the water heater is full, close the pressure relief valve by turning it clockwise.

5. Turn off the hot water faucet.

Once the water heater is full, turn off the hot water faucet.

6. Check for leaks.

Once the water heater is filled, check for leaks at all of the connections. If you find any leaks, tighten the connections.

7. Turn on the water heater.

Once the water heater is filled and there are no leaks, turn on the water heater by turning the thermostat to the desired temperature.

8. Test the water heater.

Once the water heater is turned on, test it by turning on a hot water faucet. The water should be hot within a few minutes.

Error	Possible Cause	Solution
No hot water	Water heater is not filled	Fill the water heater
No hot water	Thermostat is set too low	Raise the thermostat setting
Water is too hot	Thermostat is set too high	Lower the thermostat setting
Water is leaking from the water heater	Loose connection	Tighten the connection
Water is leaking from the pressure relief valve	Pressure relief valve is faulty	Replace the pressure relief valve

Powering On the Water Heater

Once the water heater is installed and connected to the electrical system, it’s time to power it on. Follow these steps for safe and proper startup:

1. Safety Precautions

Ensure all safety measures are in place, including wearing personal protective equipment (PPE) and securing the work area.

2. Check Electrical Connections

Verify that all electrical connections are tight and secure, and that the wiring matches the water heater’s specifications.

3. Open Water Valves

Open both the cold and hot water valves on the water heater to allow water to enter the tank and circulate.

4. Set Temperature

Adjust the temperature setting to your desired level using the thermostat control knob on the water heater.

5. Turn On Circuit Breaker

Locate the circuit breaker or fuse panel for the water heater and turn on the power to the unit.

6. Wait for Heating

Allow the water heater to heat the water for a period of time, as indicated in the manufacturer’s instructions.

7. Check Water Flow

Open a hot water tap and check if water flows freely and reaches the desired temperature.

8. Adjust Thermostat

If the water temperature is not optimal, adjust the thermostat setting to achieve the desired level.

9. Troubleshooting

In case of any issues or malfunctions, refer to the following troubleshooting table:

Problem	Possible Cause	Solution
Water heater not heating	No power supply	Check circuit breaker, fuse, or electrical connections
Water not flowing	Closed valves	Open cold and hot water valves
Incorrect temperature	Thermostat malfunction	Replace or adjust thermostat
Leaking water	Loose connections, damaged gasket	Tighten connections, replace gasket

Troubleshooting Common Installation Issues

Installing an electric Rheem water heater is generally straightforward, but some issues need to be addressed. Here are solutions to some common installation problems:

1. Water Leaking from the Pressure Relief Valve

Causes: High water pressure, faulty pressure relief valve, or thermal expansion.

Solutions: Adjust water pressure, replace the pressure relief valve, or install an expansion tank.

2. Water Heater Not Heating

Causes: Faulty heating element, broken thermostat, or power outage.

Solutions: Test and replace the heating element, thermostat, or restore power.

3. Insufficient Hot Water

Causes: Oversized tank, high demand, or incorrect temperature settings.

Solutions: Consider a larger tank, reduce hot water usage, or adjust temperature settings.

4. Noisy Water Heater

Causes: Sediment buildup, loose heating element, or air trapped inside.

Solutions: Flush the tank to remove sediment, tighten the heating element, or release trapped air by opening the pressure relief valve.

5. Water Heater Smelling Bad

Causes: Bacteria growth, anode rod failure, or sediment buildup.

Solutions: Clean the tank, replace the anode rod, or flush the tank to remove sediment.

6. Electrical Issues

Causes: Faulty wiring, bad breaker, or loose connections.

Solutions: Check wiring, replace the breaker, or tighten connections.

7. Water Heater Tripping the Circuit Breaker

Causes: Oversized breaker, faulty heating element, or power surges.

Solutions: Install a smaller breaker, replace the heating element, or use surge protection.

8. Condensation on the Water Heater

Causes: Cold water entering the tank or high humidity.

Solutions: Insulate the cold water pipe or reduce humidity levels.

9. Pilot Light Won’t Stay Lit

Causes: Faulty thermocouple, clogged burner, or no gas supply.

Solutions: Replace the thermocouple, clean the burner, or check the gas supply.

10. Water Temperature Fluctuating

Causes: Faulty mixing valve, sediment buildup, or high water demand.

Solutions:

Cause	Solution
Faulty mixing valve	Replace the mixing valve
Sediment buildup	Flush the tank
High water demand	Install a larger tank or reduce hot water usage