Rheem 38 Gallon User Manual

AP12668-5 (01/05)
FOR YOUR SAFETY!
— Do not store or use gasoline or other
flammable vapors or liquids or other
combustible materials in the vicinity of this or
any other appliance. To do so may result in an
explosion or fire.
— WHAT TO DO IF YOU SMELL GAS
● Do not try to light any appliance.
● Do not touch any electrical switch; do not
use any phone in your building.
● Immediately call your gas supplier from a
neighbor’s phone. Follow the gas supplier’s
instructions.
● If you cannot reach your gas supplier, call
the fire department.
● Do not return to your home until authorized
by the gas supplier or fire department.
— Improper installation, adjustment, alteration,
service or maintenance can cause property
damage, personal injury, or death . Refer to
this manual. Installation and service must be
performed by a qualified installer, service
agency or the gas supplier.
!
WARNING: If the information in these instructions is not followed exactly,
a fire or explosion may result causing property damage, personal injury or death.
!
The purpose of this manual is twofold: one, to provide the installer with the basic directions and
recommendations for the proper installation and adjustment of the water heater; and two, for the
owner–operator, to explain the features, operation, safety precautions, maintenance and troubleshooting
of the water heater. This manual also includes a parts list.
It is imperative that all persons who are expected to install, operate or adjust this water heater read the
instructions carefully so they may understand how to perform these operations. If you do not understand
these instructions or any terms within it, seek professional advice.
Any questions regarding the operation, maintenance, service or warranty of this water heater should be
directed to the seller from whom it was purchased. If additional information is required, refer to the
section on “If you need service.”
Do not destroy this manual. Please read carefully and keep in a safe place for future reference.
Recognize this symbol as an indication of Important Safety Information!
California Proposition 65 Warning: This product contains chemicals known to the State of
California to cause cancer, birth defects or other reproductive harm.
!
!
Residential 30, 38, 40 and 50 Gallon
Use & Care Manual
With Installation Instructions for the Installer
Printed in USA
Water Heaters
Residential Gas
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Warning: This water heater is not
suitable for use in manufactured (mobile) homes!
!

Rheem 38 Gallon Specifications

General

Brand	Rheem
Model	38 Gallon
Category	Water Heater
Language	English

Summary

Residential Gas Water Heater Overview

Key Safety Precautions

Essential safety warnings and guidelines for water heater operation.

Understanding Safety Information

Safety Symbols and Terminology

Explains DANGER, WARNING, CAUTION, and NOTICE symbols for hazard communication.

Critical Safety Warnings

Draft Hood and Venting Safety

Emphasizes dangers of improper draft hood installation and venting.

Critical Safety Warnings

Water Temperature Burn Hazard

Details risks of high water temperatures and scalding, especially for vulnerable users.

Gas Model Safety Information

Gas Leak Detection and Response

Procedures for detecting and responding to natural or LP gas leaks to prevent injury.

General Safety Guidelines

California Installation Requirements

Specific safety precautions and state requirements for water heater installation.

Water Heater Installation Guide

Choosing the Right Location

Guidance on selecting a suitable and safe location for installing the water heater.

Water Heater Installation Guide

Combustion Air and Ventilation

Requirements for ensuring adequate airflow for safe and efficient combustion.

Water Heater Installation Guide

Thermal Expansion Control

Explanation of thermal expansion and methods to manage system pressure.

Water Heater Installation Guide

Relief Valve Installation and Function

Proper installation and operation of the temperature and pressure relief valve.

Water Heater Installation Guide

Gas Supply Connections and Testing

Procedures for connecting gas supply, leak testing, and pressure considerations.

Water Heater Installation Guide

Venting System Requirements

Essential guidelines for correctly venting the water heater to prevent hazards.

Water Heater Installation Guide

Installation Do's and Don'ts

Key actions to take and avoid during the water heater installation process.

Installation Checklist

Location and Water Supply Checks

Checklist items for verifying water heater location and water supply connections.

Potable and Space Heating Applications

Combined System Installation Diagram

Piping diagram and safety notes for water heaters in combined heating systems.

Lighting the Water Heater

Pilot Light and Burner Ignition

Step-by-step instructions for safely lighting the pilot and main burner.

Operating the Water Heater

Setting Water Temperature Safely

Guide to adjusting water temperature, considering scald risks and energy savings.

Operating the Water Heater

Water Temperature Adjustments

Details on temperature dial, stacking effect, and safety checks for operation.

Water Heater Care and Cleaning

Routine Preventative Maintenance Schedule

Recommended annual maintenance tasks for optimal water heater performance.

Water Heater Care and Cleaning

Venting and Burner System Checks

Annual inspections for the venting system and burner assembly.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Pilot Light and Burner Problems

Solutions for issues like pilot outage, yellow flame, or burner not staying lit.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Hot Water Supply Problems

Diagnosing and fixing issues with insufficient hot water or water being too hot.

Replacement Parts Information

How to Order Replacement Parts

Instructions for identifying model, gas type, and part description for ordering.

Getting Service and Support

Contacting the Manufacturer

Information on how to contact the manufacturer's service department for assistance.