Rheem AP16697 User Manual

Water Heaters
Electric Residential
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.
with Electronic Control
®
LISTED
786H
AP16697 (06/13)
Printed in USA
Use & Care Manual
With Installation Instructions for the Installer

Rheem AP16697 Specifications

General

Brand	Rheem
Model	AP16697
Category	Water Heater
Language	English

Summary

Safety and Temperature Settings

Water Temperature Setting Risks

Details risks of scalding from high water temperatures and recommended settings.

Additional Safety Precautions

California Installation Requirements

Mandates for bracing water heaters in California due to earthquake risks.

General Safety Precautions

Essential safety steps before operating the water heater.

Water Heater Installation Guidelines

Local Installation Regulations

Requirements for installation based on local codes and standards.

Selecting Installation Location

Guidance on selecting an appropriate and safe location for the unit.

Shipment Inspection Procedure

Instructions for checking the water heater for damage upon delivery.

Thermal Expansion and Water Connections

Understanding Thermal Expansion

Explains thermal expansion and its effects on closed water systems.

Water Supply Connection Guidelines

Details recommended connections for hot and cold water supply.

Relief Valve, Filling, and Condensation

Relief Valve Installation Requirements

Specifies requirements for installing the temperature and pressure relief valve.

Filling the Water Heater Tank

Step-by-step instructions for filling the water heater tank with water.

Condensation Causes and Nature

Explains the causes and nature of condensation on the water heater tank.

Electrical Connections and Wiring Guide

Electrical Connection Requirements

Details requirements for proper electrical hookup by a qualified electrician.

Branch Circuit Sizing and Wire Size Guide

Provides guidelines for sizing branch circuits and wire for the water heater.

Insulation Guidelines and Installation

External Insulation Blanket Use

Discusses the use and cautions regarding external insulation blankets.

Pipe Insulation Installation Instructions

Instructions for installing insulation on hot and cold water pipes for efficiency.

Component Installation Details

Relief Valve Insulation Installation

Instructions for insulating the temperature and pressure relief valve.

Heat Trap Functionality Explained

Explains the purpose and function of heat traps for energy efficiency.

Water Sensor System Installation Guide

Details the installation and function of the water sensor system.

Comprehensive Installation Checklist

Water Heater Location Checklist

Checklist items for verifying the water heater's location.

Water Supply Connection Checklist

Checklist items for verifying water supply connections.

Relief Valve Installation Checklist

Checklist items for verifying the relief valve installation.

Electrical Wiring Checklist

Checklist items for verifying electrical wiring.

Water Sensor Installation Checklist

Checklist items for verifying water sensor installation.

Operating the Water Heater Safely

Operational Safety Precautions

Critical safety steps to follow while operating the water heater.

Safety Controls and Resetting Procedures

Explains the function of safety controls like the ECO and how to reset them.

Water Temperature Settings and Safety

Setting Water Temperature Point

Guidance on setting the water temperature for safety and efficiency.

Programming the Electronic Control: Basic Operations

Powering On the Water Heater

Instructions on how to turn the water heater on using the electronic control.

Adjusting Water Temperature

Steps to adjust the water temperature using the electronic control.

Locking the Control Screen

Procedure to lock the electronic control screen to prevent accidental changes.

Programming the Electronic Control: Advanced Features

Unlocking the Control Screen

Steps to unlock the electronic control screen.

Vacation Mode Operation Guide

How to enable and disable vacation mode to save energy during absences.

Understanding Heating Status Indicators

How to interpret the heating status indicator on the display.

Electronic Control Configuration Menu

Navigating Configuration Options

Overview of accessing and navigating the configuration menu.

Changing Operating Mode (Performance/Saver)

Instructions to switch between Performance and Energy Saver modes.

Configuring Advanced Settings

How to adjust additional settings for performance and display.

Electronic Control Settings Details

High Temperature Mode Activation

Enables setting water temperature above 140°F.

Display Unit Setting (Fahrenheit/Celsius)

How to change the temperature display between Fahrenheit and Celsius.

Audible Alarm Configuration

Controls to turn audible alarms on or off.

Instance Number Identification

Setting an identifier for the water heater in a home control system.

Electronic Control Status and Error Codes

Checking Heater Operational Status

How to view heating element status and temperature readings.

Viewing Error History Log

Accessing and reviewing the last 10 error codes.

Interpreting Error Display Messages

Understanding error codes and recommended actions.

Electronic Control Error Code Reference

Error Code Descriptions and Actions

Detailed descriptions and actions for specific error codes.

Water Heater Care and Cleaning Procedures

Draining the Water Heater Tank

Step-by-step instructions for safely draining the water heater tank.

Routine Preventative Maintenance Schedule

Recommended maintenance schedule and tasks for long-term performance.

Water Heater Maintenance and Longevity

Extended Shut-Down Procedures

Guidelines for turning off the water heater for extended periods.

Anode Rod Inspection and Function

Information on the anode rod's role in tank protection and maintenance.

Troubleshooting Before Calling Service

Common Problem Diagnosis and Solutions

A guide to diagnosing and resolving common issues before contacting service.

Ordering Replacement Parts

Parts Ordering Instructions

Instructions on how to order replacement parts for the water heater.

Component Replacement Procedures

Thermostat and Heating Element Replacement

Instructions for qualified personnel to replace internal components.

Water Heater Wiring Diagram

Electrical Wiring Schematic

Detailed schematic showing electrical connections for the water heater.

Getting Service and Support

Contacting Manufacturer for Service

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