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Rheem Gladiator - User Manual

Rheem Gladiator
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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!
With Electronic Control
®
LISTED
786H
AP20070
Use & Care Manual
With Installation Instructions for the Installer
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Summary

Electric Residential Water Heaters

Manual Introduction

Introduces the manual's purpose for installers and owners, covering safety, operation, and parts.

Important Safety Information

Water Temperature Setting Safety

Details risks of high water temperatures and recommendations for safe temperature settings to prevent scalding.

California Installation Requirements

Outlines California law for bracing water heaters against seismic activity, with contact information.

General Safety Precautions

Essential safety practices for installation, operation, and servicing to minimize risks.

Water Heater Installation

Location, Shipment, and Connections

Guidance on selecting location, inspecting shipment, and making water/electrical connections.

Thermal Expansion and Relief Valves

Addresses thermal expansion issues, relief valve installation, and filling procedures.

Insulation and Leak Protection

Instructions for pipe insulation, relief valve insulation, heat traps, and the LeakGuard™ system.

Installation Checklist

A comprehensive checklist summarizing key installation steps for location, water, relief valve, and wiring.

Operating the Water Heater

Operational Safety and Controls

Covers hydrogen gas warnings, safety precautions, and the function/reset of safety controls like the ECO.

Water Temperature Settings

Discusses setting water temperature for efficiency and safety, including the VACATION mode feature.

Programming the Electronic Control

Temperature Adjustment and Keypad Management

Instructions for adjusting temperature, locking/unlocking keypad, and activating VACATION mode.

Advanced Settings and Status Indicators

Steps for setting temperatures above 140°F and interpreting heating status indicators.

Electronic Control Alerts

Leak Detection Override and Alarm Muting

How to override leak detection and mute alarm beeps, noting the need to correct underlying issues.

Wi-Fi Connectivity

Setup and Troubleshooting

Guide for connecting to Wi-Fi and the Rheem EcoNet app, with steps for resolving connection issues.

Error Codes

Interpreting Codes and Blinks

Explains LED blink patterns and lists specific error codes with recommended actions for diagnosis.

Care and Cleaning

Draining and Preventative Maintenance

Instructions for safely draining the water heater and recommendations for routine preventative maintenance.

Extended Shut-Down and Anode Rod

Guidance for extended non-use and the importance of anode rod maintenance for tank protection.

Troubleshooting and Service

Before You Call For Service

A troubleshooting chart to diagnose and resolve common problems before contacting service personnel.

Local Mode Operation

Connecting for Diagnostics

Steps to connect directly to the water heater using local mode and the Rheem EcoNet app for diagnostics.

Replacement Parts

Ordering Replacement Parts

Instructions for ordering parts, detailing necessary model, serial number, and part description.

Cavity Insert Instructions

Component Replacement Procedures

Instructions for qualified service personnel on removing the cavity insert to replace thermostats or heating elements.

Wiring Diagram

Electrical Schematic

Provides a detailed schematic of the water heater's electrical connections and internal wiring.

If You Need Service

Contacting Service and Support

Guidance on contacting installers, contractors, or the manufacturer's service department for assistance.

Summary

Electric Residential Water Heaters

Manual Introduction

Introduces the manual's purpose for installers and owners, covering safety, operation, and parts.

Important Safety Information

Water Temperature Setting Safety

Details risks of high water temperatures and recommendations for safe temperature settings to prevent scalding.

California Installation Requirements

Outlines California law for bracing water heaters against seismic activity, with contact information.

General Safety Precautions

Essential safety practices for installation, operation, and servicing to minimize risks.

Water Heater Installation

Location, Shipment, and Connections

Guidance on selecting location, inspecting shipment, and making water/electrical connections.

Thermal Expansion and Relief Valves

Addresses thermal expansion issues, relief valve installation, and filling procedures.

Insulation and Leak Protection

Instructions for pipe insulation, relief valve insulation, heat traps, and the LeakGuard™ system.

Installation Checklist

A comprehensive checklist summarizing key installation steps for location, water, relief valve, and wiring.

Operating the Water Heater

Operational Safety and Controls

Covers hydrogen gas warnings, safety precautions, and the function/reset of safety controls like the ECO.

Water Temperature Settings

Discusses setting water temperature for efficiency and safety, including the VACATION mode feature.

Programming the Electronic Control

Temperature Adjustment and Keypad Management

Instructions for adjusting temperature, locking/unlocking keypad, and activating VACATION mode.

Advanced Settings and Status Indicators

Steps for setting temperatures above 140°F and interpreting heating status indicators.

Electronic Control Alerts

Leak Detection Override and Alarm Muting

How to override leak detection and mute alarm beeps, noting the need to correct underlying issues.

Wi-Fi Connectivity

Setup and Troubleshooting

Guide for connecting to Wi-Fi and the Rheem EcoNet app, with steps for resolving connection issues.

Error Codes

Interpreting Codes and Blinks

Explains LED blink patterns and lists specific error codes with recommended actions for diagnosis.

Care and Cleaning

Draining and Preventative Maintenance

Instructions for safely draining the water heater and recommendations for routine preventative maintenance.

Extended Shut-Down and Anode Rod

Guidance for extended non-use and the importance of anode rod maintenance for tank protection.

Troubleshooting and Service

Before You Call For Service

A troubleshooting chart to diagnose and resolve common problems before contacting service personnel.

Local Mode Operation

Connecting for Diagnostics

Steps to connect directly to the water heater using local mode and the Rheem EcoNet app for diagnostics.

Replacement Parts

Ordering Replacement Parts

Instructions for ordering parts, detailing necessary model, serial number, and part description.

Cavity Insert Instructions

Component Replacement Procedures

Instructions for qualified service personnel on removing the cavity insert to replace thermostats or heating elements.

Wiring Diagram

Electrical Schematic

Provides a detailed schematic of the water heater's electrical connections and internal wiring.

If You Need Service

Contacting Service and Support

Guidance on contacting installers, contractors, or the manufacturer's service department for assistance.

Overview

This document is a comprehensive Use & Care Manual with Installation Instructions for an Electric Residential Water Heater with Electronic Control. It is designed to provide both installers and owner-operators with essential information regarding the water heater's setup, operation, safety, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Function Description

The electric residential water heater is designed to provide hot water for household use. It features an electronic control system that allows for precise temperature regulation and includes advanced safety and diagnostic capabilities. The water heater is equipped with heating elements that heat the water stored in its tank, and a temperature limiting control (ECO) to prevent excessively high water temperatures. A key feature is the integrated Wi-Fi capability, which allows users to remotely control the water heater, receive leak detection alerts, and access diagnostic information via a mobile app (Rheem EcoNet®). This connectivity enhances convenience and provides proactive alerts for potential issues. The water heater also incorporates a LeakGuard™ system with built-in leak detection and an automatic water shut-off valve, which detects water presence, alerts the electronic control and EcoNet app, shuts down heating elements, and closes the shut-off valve to prevent water damage.

Usage Features

The water heater's electronic control panel serves as the primary interface for users. Upon initial power-up, the water heater is in a "Disabled" mode, indicated by only the power LED being illuminated. Users can set the desired water temperature, ranging from 110°F to 150°F, by pressing the RIGHT arrow button on the control panel. Temperature adjustments are made in 5°F increments, though finer control may be available through the Rheem EcoNet® app.

For energy saving, a "VACATION" mode is available, which reduces the water temperature to a predetermined lower setting when hot water is not needed for extended periods. This mode is activated by pressing the LEFT arrow until the "VACATION" indicator is lit.

The control panel also features a keypad locking mechanism to prevent unintentional temperature changes. Users can lock the keypad by pressing and holding both arrow buttons for 3 seconds, and unlock it using the same method.

The water heater provides heating status feedback through a blinking temperature indicator on the control panel, signifying that a heating element is actively heating water.

In situations where water temperatures above 140°F are desired (up to 150°F), the keypad must first be unlocked by pressing and holding both arrow buttons for 3 seconds. The keypad will not lock when decreasing temperatures below 140°F.

The LeakGuard™ system includes a 24-hour leak detection override feature. If a leak alarm is triggered by spilled water (not from the water heater itself), users can press the "CLEAR ALARM" button for 1 second to silence the alarm beep and allow the heater to run normally for 24 hours. The "SERVICE NEED" indicator will be solid red, and the EcoNet app will display an alert if water is detected during this override period. The alarm beep can also be muted by pressing the LEFT arrow button, though the alarm condition will persist until the underlying issue is resolved.

Wi-Fi setup involves pressing the Wi-Fi SETUP button for 2 seconds (or 5 seconds for a reset), connecting a mobile device to the local Wi-Fi network, downloading the Rheem EcoNet® app, creating an account, and following in-app instructions. A blinking blue Wi-Fi indicator signifies setup mode, and a solid blue indicates a successful connection. In case of connection failure, the Wi-Fi Status LED will blink red 3 times, prompting a reset of the Wi-Fi module.

Maintenance Features

Routine preventative maintenance is crucial for ensuring years of dependable, trouble-free service from the water heater. Users are encouraged to establish and follow a regular maintenance program.

Key maintenance tasks include:

  • Draining the Water Heater: Before draining, power to the water heater must be turned off, and the cold water supply shut off. A hot water faucet should be opened, or the relief valve handle lifted, to admit air. A garden hose can then be attached to the drain valve to direct water to a suitable open drain. This process is essential for cleaning the tank of hard water deposits, with a recommendation to drain a few quarts monthly.
  • Temperature and Pressure Relief Valve Inspection: At least once a year, the lever handle on the temperature pressure relief valve (located near the top of the water heater) should be lifted and released to ensure it operates freely. This flushes several gallons through the discharge line.
  • Anode Rod Inspection and Replacement: The water heater is equipped with an anode rod designed to prolong the life of the glass-lined tank by slowly consuming itself to prevent corrosion. The anode rod should be removed annually for inspection and replaced when more than 6 inches of core wire is exposed at either end. The cold water supply must be turned off before removing the anode rod. Operating the water heater without an anode rod will significantly shorten the tank's life and void the warranty.
  • Professional Inspection: Periodic inspection of operating controls, heating elements, and wiring by qualified service personnel is recommended. If excessive hissing or singing sounds occur, the electric heating element may require cleaning.
  • Extended Shut-Down: If the water heater will be idle for an extended period (generally two weeks or more), the power and water supply should be turned off to conserve energy and prevent hydrogen gas buildup. The water heater and piping should be drained if freezing temperatures are a concern. After a long shut-down, qualified service personnel should check the water heater's operation and controls, and ensure it is completely filled before restarting.

The manual also provides a troubleshooting guide to help users diagnose common problems like rumbling noise, relief valve popping, rattling noise, insufficient hot water, or water that is too hot. It outlines possible causes and corrective actions, emphasizing that repairs of electrical wiring, temperature sensors, electronic controls, heating elements, or other safety devices should only be attempted by qualified service personnel.

Rheem Gladiator Specifications

General IconGeneral
BrandRheem
ModelGladiator
Capacity50 Gallons
Voltage240V
Power SourceElectric
TypeElectric
Wi-Fi ConnectivityYes
Smart FeaturesLeak detection
Warranty12 Years
First Hour Rating67 Gallons
Recovery Rate21 GPH

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