Suburban SW4DEL - User Manual

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Part Number 204539

03-17-2015

INSTALLATION AND OPERATION MANUAL

DIRECT VENT

GAS WATER HEATER

MODELS SW4DEL • SW6DEL

SW10DEL • SW12DEL • SW16DEL

Direct Spark Ignition, Electric Element

FOR INSTALLATION IN RECREATIONAL

VEHICLES AND MOBILE HOUSING

AIRXCEL, INC. - SUBURBAN DIVISION

676 Broadway Street

Dayton, Tennessee 37321

423-775-2131

www.Airxcel.com

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.

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This document is an installation and operation manual for a Suburban Direct Vent Gas Water Heater, designed for use in recreational vehicles and mobile housing. The manual covers models SW4DEL, SW6DEL, SW10DEL, SW12DEL, and SW16DEL, which feature direct spark ignition and an electric element.

Function Description:

The Suburban water heater is designed to provide hot water for recreational vehicles and mobile housing. It operates using either propane gas with direct spark ignition or an electric element (120 VAC). The direct vent design ensures that combustion air is drawn from outside the structure and exhaust gases are vented externally, preventing the release of combustion products into occupied spaces. The heater is equipped with a thermostat to maintain a water temperature of 130°F (54°C) and a high-temperature limit (ECO) that trips if the water temperature exceeds 180°F (82°C), shutting down the burner or electric element for safety.

Important Technical Specifications:

Models Covered: SW4DEL, SW6DEL, SW10DEL, SW12DEL, SW16DEL.
Ignition Type: Direct Spark Ignition for gas operation.
Heating Elements: Gas burner and 120 VAC electric element.
Voltage: 12 VDC for ignition system, 120 VAC for electric element.
Electric Element Wattage (120 VAC): 1440 Watts, 12 Amps (for 120 VAC models).
Water Temperature Setting: Non-adjustable thermostat maintains 130°F (54°C).
High Temperature Limit (ECO): Trips at 180°F (82°C).
Gas Supply: 3/8" flare fitting for gas supply line.
Water Connections: 1/2" female pipe fittings for hot and cold water lines.
Minimum Clearances (Combustible Construction): 0 inches on sides, top, floor, and rear.
Altitude Deration: Certified for operation up to 4,500 feet without modification. Requires deration of 4% for every 1,000 feet above 4,500 feet.
Pressure Relief Valve: Designed to open at 210°F (99°C) or 150 PSI.
Anode Rod: Magnesium or aluminum anode for tank protection, recommended to be replaced yearly.

Usage Features:

Dual Fuel Operation: Allows users to choose between gas and electric heating, offering flexibility based on available resources (e.g., propane availability or shore power).
Automatic Ignition: The direct spark ignition system automatically lights the gas burner, eliminating the need for a pilot light and manual ignition.
Safety Shut-off: The high-temperature limit (ECO) provides a safety mechanism against overheating, automatically shutting down the heating source if the water temperature becomes too high.
Freeze Warning: Users are instructed to drain the heater if it will be subjected to freezing temperatures to prevent damage.
Gas Leak Detection: Instructions are provided on what to do if gas is smelled, emphasizing immediate safety actions like shutting off gas supply and evacuating the vehicle.
Water System Protection: The manual explains the function of the pressure relief valve and provides instructions on how to replenish the air pocket in the tank to reduce weeping or dripping from the valve.
Odor Management: Guidance is given on how to address sulfur or "rotten egg" odors in the hot water system through chlorination and flushing.
Installation Flexibility: The manual provides detailed instructions for both hinged door and flush mount frame & door installations, accommodating different RV designs.
Accessibility for Service: The module board, which controls the ignition system, is designed to be mounted in an accessible location for service while being protected from moisture and physical damage.

Maintenance Features:

Anode Rod Replacement: The anode rod is a sacrificial component that protects the tank from corrosion. Users are advised to inspect and replace it yearly, or more frequently in areas with high iron/sulfate water, to prolong tank life and maintain warranty.
Burner Flame Inspection: Users are instructed to periodically inspect the main burner flame for proper appearance (blue or blue/orange, well-defined pattern) and to shut down the unit and seek service if a yellow or erratic flame is observed, as this indicates incomplete combustion and potential soot formation.
Soot Inspection: Regular inspection for soot on the water heater is recommended. Soot indicates incomplete combustion and requires immediate attention from a qualified service person.
Vent Obstruction Check: The vent and screen in the door should be periodically checked for obstructions to ensure proper combustion and ventilation air flow.
Gas Inlet Grommet Check: The grommet on the gas inlet needs frequent checks to ensure a tight seal, preventing moisture and flue products from entering the living area.
Wiring Inspection: Periodic checks of wiring and connections are recommended to ensure they are tight, undamaged, and compliant with codes.
Draining and Storage: Detailed instructions are provided for draining the water heater for winterization or extended storage to prevent freeze damage. This includes turning off power and gas, opening faucets, and removing the anode rod.
Manual Reset: The ECO (high-temperature limit) can be manually reset once the water temperature drops below 110°F (43°C), allowing the heater to resume operation after an overheat event.
Professional Service Recommendation: The manual strongly advises that all repairs and deration for high altitude operation be performed by a qualified installer or service agency.