Suburban SW10DEM - User Manual

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FOR YOUR SAFETY

WHAT TO DO IF YOU SMELL GAS

• DO NOT TRY TO LIGHT ANY APPLIANCE.

• DO NOT TOUCH ANY ELECTRIC SWITCH: DO NOT USE ANY PHONE IN YOUR VEHICLE.

• 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.

FREEZE WARNING

DRAIN HEATER IF SUBJECT TO FREEZING TEMPERATURES.

WARNING: IMPROPER INSTALLATION, ADJUSTMENT, ALTERATION, SERVICE OR MAINTENANCE CAN

CAUSE INJURY OR PROPERTY DAMAGE. REFER TO THIS MANUAL. FOR ASSISTANCE OR ADDITIONAL

INFORMATION, CONSULT A QUALIFIED INSTALLER, SERVICE AGENCY OR THE GAS SUPPLIER.

FOR YOUR SAFETY

DO NOT STORE OR USE GASOLINE OR OTHER COMBUSTIBLE MATERIALS OR LIQUIDS NEAR OR

ADJACENT TO THIS HEATER OR ANY OTHER APPLIANCE. THIS APPLIANCE SHALL NOT BE INSTALLED IN

ANY LOCATION WHERE FLAMMABLE LIQUIDS OR VAPORS ARE LIKELY TO BE PRESENT.

AN ODORANT IS ADDED TO THE GAS USED BY THIS WATER HEATER.

INSTALLER: AFFIX THESE INSTRUCTIONS TO OR ADJACENT TO WATER HEATER.

OWNER: RETAIN THESE INSTRUCTIONS AND WARRANTY FOR FUTURE REFERENCE.

ALL TECHNICAL AND WARRANTY QUESTIONS SHOULD BE DIRECTED TO THE COMPANY

LISTED ON THE WARRANTY, OR RATING PLATE WHICH CAME WITH YOUR WATER HEATER.

SUBURBAN MANUFACTURING COMPANY

676 Broadway Street

Dayton, Tennessee 37321

423-775-2131

www.rvcomfort.com

Part Number 204671

3-24-09

INSTALLATION AND OPERATION MANUAL

DIRECT VENT

GAS WATER HEATER

DIRECT SPARK IGNITION (DSI)

MODELS

SW10D • SW10DM • SW10DE • SW10DEM

SW12D • SW12DE • SW12DEM

SW16D • SW16DE • 16DEM

FOR INSTALLATION IN RECREATIONAL

VEHICLES AND MOBILE HOUSING

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Summary

Safety Precautions

What to Do If You Smell Gas

Immediate actions to take if gas is detected.

Freeze Warning

Instructions for draining the heater to prevent freezing.

Combustible Materials Warning

Avoid storing flammable materials near the heater.

Installation Requirements

Recreational Vehicle Installation Standards

Standards for installing in RVs including gas, electrical, and plumbing.

Mobile Housing Installation Standards

Standards for installing in mobile homes including gas, electrical, and plumbing.

Installation Instructions

Flush Mount Frame & Door Installation

Steps for installing the unit using a flush mount frame and door.

Water and Gas Connections

Procedures for making water and gas line connections.

12 Volts D.C. Electrical Connections

120 Volts A.C. Electrical Connections

Motor Aid Heat Exchanger Installation

Maintenance Procedures

General Maintenance Safety

Overall safety and repair guidelines for maintenance.

Burner & Soot Inspection

Checking the main burner flame and inspecting for soot.

Gas Inlet Grommet & Wiring Checks

Periodic checks of the gas inlet and wiring connections.

Pressure Relief Valve Operation

Draining and Storage Instructions

Operating Instructions

Gas Burner Operation

Steps for operating the gas-powered water heater.

Electric Element Operation

Instructions for operating the electric element.

Parts List for Models SW10 DEM, SW12 DEM, and SW16 DEM

Two Year Limited Warranty

Three Year Limited Tank Warranty

Extended warranty coverage specifically for the inner tank.

Warranty Limitations and Exclusions

Exclusions and limitations on warranty coverage.

Product Problem Resolution

Steps to follow if a product problem arises and warranty service is needed.

The provided document is an installation and operation manual for a Suburban Direct Vent Gas Water Heater with Direct Spark Ignition (DSI), designed specifically for recreational vehicles (RVs) and mobile housing.

Function Description

This device is a gas-fired water heater that uses a direct vent system to provide hot water. It incorporates Direct Spark Ignition (DSI) for automatic burner lighting, eliminating the need for a pilot light. The water heater is designed to maintain a water temperature of approximately 130°F (54°C) and includes a high-temperature limit (ECO) as a safety cut-off device, which trips if the water temperature exceeds 180°F. Some models also include an electric heating element for an alternative heating source. The direct vent design ensures that all air for combustion is supplied from outside the structure, and flue products are vented externally, preventing their entry into occupied spaces.

Important Technical Specifications

Models Covered: SW10D, SW10DM, SW10DE, SW10DEM, SW12D, SW12DE, SW12DEM, SW16D, SW16DE, and 16DEM. The "DE" and "DEM" suffixes indicate models with an electric element.
Ignition System: Direct Spark Ignition (DSI) for automatic burner lighting.
Temperature Control: Non-adjustable thermostat set to maintain 130°F (54°C).
Safety Cut-off: High-temperature limit (ECO) trips at 180°F (82°C) for both gas and electric elements (on applicable models).
Electrical Connections (Gas Models): 12 Volts D.C. (18 GA., 105°C wire or equivalent).
Electrical Connections (Electric Element Models): 120 Volts A.C., single phase, 1440 Watt element, 60 Hz, 12 Amps (14 GA., 105°C wire or equivalent).
Gas Connection: 3/8" gas supply line to a 3/8" flare fitting at the gas valve.
Water Connections: 1/2" female pipe fittings at the rear of the tank, marked "HOT" and "COLD," each containing a plastic fill tube to enhance water circulation.
Clearances: Minimum clearance from combustible construction on sides, top, floor, and rear is 0 inches.
Pressure Relief Valve: Designed to open if water temperature reaches 210°F or water pressure reaches 150 PSI.
Anode Rod: Magnesium or aluminum anode rod for tank protection.
Altitude Operation: Approved for use without modification up to 4500 feet. Above this altitude, a 4% reduction in thermal capacity per 1000 feet is recommended.

Usage Features

Automatic Operation: The DSI system automatically lights the burner, eliminating manual pilot lighting.
Dual Fuel Capability (on "DE" and "DEM" models): Offers the flexibility of using either gas or an electric element for heating water.
Safety Warnings: Emphasizes critical safety procedures, including filling the tank with water before operation, checking for gas leaks, and precautions regarding hydrogen gas accumulation after periods of non-use.
Freeze Protection: Instructions are provided to drain the heater if it will be subjected to freezing temperatures to prevent damage.
Odor Control: Addresses "sulfur water" odor issues and provides a chlorination procedure for the water system.
Easy Installation: Detailed instructions for flush mounting the unit, including framing requirements and securing the control housing and door frame.
Module Board: The module board, which controls the DSI system, is designed to be permanently mounted by the installer in an accessible location, protected from moisture and chemicals.

Maintenance Features

Anode Rod Protection: The tank is protected by a magnesium or aluminum anode rod, which should be inspected and replaced yearly (or more frequently with high iron/sulfate water) to prolong tank life and maintain warranty.
Burner Inspection: Regular inspection for yellow or erratic flames and soot accumulation is recommended, as these indicate incomplete combustion and an unsafe operating condition.
Vent Inspection: Periodic inspection of the vent for obstructions or soot is crucial for safe operation.
Grommet Seal Check: Frequent checks of the gas inlet grommet are advised to ensure an airtight seal, preventing flue products from entering the living area.
Wiring Inspection: Periodic inspection of wiring and connections for damage, fraying, and tightness is recommended.
Draining and Storage: Comprehensive instructions for draining the water heater for winterization or extended storage, including the removal of the anode rod if antifreeze is used in the plumbing system.
Troubleshooting: Provides a basic checklist for common issues like the burner not lighting (e.g., switch off, gas supply empty, ECO tripped).
No User Adjustments: The thermostat is not adjustable, and users are warned against altering the operation or design of the water heater. Repairs should only be performed by qualified service personnel using factory-authorized parts.