Alva GW205 - User Manual

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Summary

Warranty and General Information

Warranty

Details the warranty terms and conditions for the ALVA portable gas water heater, covering defects in material and quality for 12 months.

General Information

Provides essential guidance for understanding and using the water heater safely and efficiently, emphasizing reading the manual.

Structure View and Assembly

Structure View

Illustrates the different components of the portable gas water heater with a numbered diagram for identification.

Method of Assembly

Explains how to connect the heater to a domestic gas cylinder using the provided regulator and L-shape connector.

Water Heater Setup and Operation

Water Heater Set Up

Covers initial setup steps including unpacking, parts check, and battery installation for the water heater.

Water Input Assembly

Details connecting various water sources like mains, pump, or water bag to the heater.

Water Bag Usage

Instructions for using the included 10L water bag as a water source for the heater.

Water Mains Connection

Connecting the water heater to a mains water supply using the provided tap connector.

Pump Usage

Information on using the 12V submersible pump with the water heater, either with the water bag or other sources.

Shower Head Operation

Details on the shower head's settings and proper usage with different water sources.

Leak Test Procedure

Step-by-step guide on how to perform a safety leak test on gas connections before operating the heater.

Using Your Water Heater

Instructions on how to turn on, adjust temperature, and operate the water heater safely and effectively.

Maintenance, Troubleshooting, and Support

Flashback (Flame in Burner Tube)

Guidance on what to do in the event of a flashback, including safety precautions and troubleshooting steps.

Disassembly

Steps to safely disconnect and take apart the water heater after use, including draining and removing batteries.

Storage

Instructions on how to properly store the water heater when not in use, including draining and placement.

Maintenance

Essential maintenance tasks, including checking flame condition, cleaning, and annual inspections by a qualified technician.

Frequently Asked Questions

Answers to common user queries regarding gas appliance odor, ventilation, cylinder duration, and overfilling.

Specifications

Technical specifications of the ALVA GW205 heater, including model, gas type, pressure, consumption, and heat output.

Trouble Shooting Guide

A guide to diagnose and resolve common issues like odor, weak flame, or burn-out with corresponding remedies.

After Sales Service

Contact information for ALVA, including manufacturing details, phone, email, website, and availability of spare parts.

The ALVA GW205 Portable Gas Water Heater is designed for outdoor use, functioning as an outdoor shower or water heater. It is ideal for camping, fishing, boating, and 4x4 excursions. This appliance is a low-pressure unit and must only be used with a 2.8kPa SANS 1237 approved regulator, which is fitted and supplied with the heater. For safety, users must read the manual carefully and operate the product according to the instructions. Modifying any part of the appliance is illegal and dangerous.

Function Description:

The ALVA GW205 operates by heating water using LPG gas. It features an ON/OFF switch, a water tap or valve, and an automatic ignition system. Once ignited, the burner lights, and the gas flow adjustment knob can be turned clockwise for higher temperatures or anti-clockwise for lower temperatures to control the desired water temperature. The flame condition can be viewed through a flame view hole; a blue flame indicates normal conditions, while a yellow flame suggests low fuel in the cylinder. The exhaust gas is vented from openings on both sides of the unit, which become very hot and should not be touched to avoid injury. The hot water produced can be used for washing hands, showering, or dishes, but it will not reach boiling point. After use, the water sources should be shut off first, followed by turning off the power.

Important Technical Specifications:

Model: ALVA GW205
Type of Gas: LPG
Operating Pressure: 2.8kPa
Injector Size: 0.6mm
Gas Consumption: 287gr/hr
Heat Output: 5.3 kW / 18000 BTU
Battery: Requires two 1.5V DC, size D alkaline batteries (not included) for ignition.
Water Sources: Can connect to water mains (using a supplied 13mm tap connector), a 12V pump (included), or a gravity-fed 10L water bag (included).
Safety Approvals: Tested and LPGSASA approved under specifications SANS 1539 (appliance), SANS 1237 (regulator), and SANS 1156 (hose).

Usage Features:

Outdoor Use Only: Never use in enclosed areas like campers, tents, cars, or homes. If used on boats, it must be above deck.
Cylinder Compatibility: Operates directly on a domestic cylinder (3kg, 4.5kg, or 5kg ALVA cylinder recommended) with a 3/8" BSP thread vertical exit valve. The supplied L-shape regulator tightens clockwise to the left-hand side. It is NOT to be used on a cylinder with a 5/8" HORIZONTAL exit valve.
Cylinder Purging: New gas cylinders must be purged of air before first use to ensure proper heater function. This should be done at the gas filling station.
Battery Assembly: Two 1.5V DC, size D alkaline batteries are placed into the battery case, following polarity markings.
Water Input Options:
- Water Mains: Connect using the supplied 13mm tap connector. Avoid excessive pressure to prevent damage.
- Water Bag: A 10L water bag with a cap, tap, and supply hose is included. The water bag should be placed at least 50cm higher than the water heater for gravity feed. The water bag mouth should face up during filling, and the tap must be closed.
- 12V Pump: An independent, fully submersible 12V pump is included. It can be used with the 10L water bag or an independent water source (e.g., a filled container or bucket). Do not let the pump run dry.
Shower Head: Features three settings: medium, full, and a close position. The switch is on the top front section of the shower head. Ensure the water flow is set to an open position when using water mains or the pump. When using the gravity feed bag, keep the shower head closed/off until ready to shower.
Ignition: The ignitor starts automatically when the ON/OFF switch is pushed and the water tap/valve is opened, provided water flow is 2L/min or more. If a continuous operational sound is not heard, batteries may need changing.
Flame Adjustment: The gas flow adjustment knob controls water temperature. Clockwise for higher, anti-clockwise for lower.
Initial Use: When lighting a new or refilled cylinder, the control valve may need to be depressed for a longer period. For initial cleaning, fill with potable water, set the flame adjustment knob to "MAX," and let the unit run for about 2 minutes, discarding the hot water produced during this time.
Ventilation: Adequate ventilation is crucial when using any gas appliance, as burning fuel consumes oxygen and produces carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide. Keep a door or window open in the same room.
Leak Test: Must be performed in a well-ventilated area, away from flames. Brush connections with an equal parts soap and water solution. Bubbles indicate a gas leak. If a leak is detected, turn off the cylinder valve, disconnect the heater, tighten connections, and retest. If unsure, contact ALVA.

Maintenance Features:

Annual Inspection: The heater should be checked once a year by a qualified technician to ensure it is safe and fault-free.
Cleaning: Clean the exterior and storage area as needed to remove dust and lint. Do not use abrasive products, as they can damage the paintwork. Clean the exterior body with a damp cloth.
Flashback: In case of flashback (flame in burner tube), turn all controls and the cylinder valve to "OFF." Wait 5 minutes before relighting. If the problem persists, check for blocked venturi ports, clean the burner with compressed air or a pipe cleaner, and replace it correctly. If the problem continues, do not attempt to rectify it yourself; contact an ALVA appointed technician.
Parts Replacement: If any part needs replacing, use only original ALVA parts. Using other spare parts is dangerous and will void the warranty.
Storage: Before storing, drain all water from the unit by tilting or tipping it over. Store the water heater in its storage bag in a clean, dry environment, on a level surface, and out of reach of children. Do not store the gas cylinder indoors; store it in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight or an electrical source.
Water Freezing: Empty all water from the system when not in use, especially in cold conditions, to prevent freezing in pipes and the unit.

Safety Information:

Misuse or failure to follow instructions can cause fire, injury, or death.
Do not leave the appliance unattended while in use.
Turn off the gas supply after use and when unattended.
Do not move the appliance while in use.
Do not place objects on or against the appliance.
Never use a naked flame to test for leaks.
Never use with a cylinder other than the recommended size.
Do not unscrew the regulator while the appliance is on or if the cylinder valve is open.
Do not use an appliance suspected to be faulty.
When turning off, first turn off the gas at the control valve on the heater, then close the cylinder valve.
Keep children away to avoid injury.
If excessive black smoke is vented, shut off the water heater.
If you smell gas, do not attempt to light the appliance, extinguish any open flame, and disconnect from the fuel supply.
The warranty is void if the heater is serviced or repaired by anyone other than an ALVA appointed technician.

Alva GW205 Specifications

General

Brand	Alva
Model	GW205
Category	Water Heater
Language	English