This document describes the ThermElite instantaneous gas water heater, designed for both domestic/commercial hot water supply and space heating. It operates on an "on-demand" basis, igniting the burner when a hot water faucet is opened and shutting off when the faucet is closed.
Function Description:
The ThermElite water heater utilizes a highly-engineered combination gas and water valve for proportional regulation, ensuring a stable hot water temperature. When a hot water faucet is opened, cold water flows through the heat exchanger coils, opening the gas valve. The burner is then ignited by either a pilot flame, battery spark igniter, or hydro-generator, depending on the model. Heat from the main burner is absorbed by the heat exchanger and transferred to the water. When the faucet is closed, the gas valve automatically closes, and the burner turns off.
Important Technical Specifications:
The manual lists several models with varying specifications:
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TE125X, TE125H, TE125P Models:
- Input rating: 28,000 – 117,000 BTU/HR
- Efficiency: 82% (INPUT)
- Working pressure: 4.4 - 150 Psi
- Hot water output (Δt = 90 °F): 0.9 – 2.1 gal/min
- Hot water output (Δt = 45° F): 1.8 – 4.2 gal/min
- Max. temperature of outlet water: 185 °F
- Vent terminal: 5 inch
- Overall dimensions: 28-3/8'' x 18-1/8" x 9-31/3"
- Weight: 40 lbs (TE125X, TE125H), 36 lbs (TE125P)
- Gas connection: ¾ inch
- Water connection: ¾ inch (both ½" adaptable)
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TE80X, TE80H, TE80P Models:
- Input rating: 21,000 – 80,000 BTU/HR
- Efficiency: 82% (INPUT)
- Working pressure: 4.4 - 150 Psi
- Hot water output (Δt = 90 °F): 0.73 – 1.5 gal/min
- Hot water output (Δt = 45° F): 1.5 – 2.9 gal/min
- Max. temperature of outlet water: 185 °F
- Vent terminal: 5 inch
- Overall dimensions: 25-5/8'' x 14-1/8" x 7-1/4"
- Weight: 24 lbs (TE80X, TE80H), 20 lbs (TE80P)
- Gas connection: ¾ inch
- Water connection: ¾ inch (both ½" adaptable)
The input rate is based on sea level operation (up to 2,000 ft elevation). For elevations above 2,000 ft in the USA, the input rating should be reduced by 4% for every 1,000 feet above sea level. Models TE125X and TE125H are not approved for high altitude in Canada.
Usage Features:
- Operation: To turn on, simply open any hot water faucet. To turn off, close the faucet. For extended periods of non-use, turn the gas control knob to "0" and close the gas supply valve.
- Temperature and Flow Control: The temperature selection knob regulates water flow, inversely affecting temperature rise. Turning it to the extreme right provides the least flow and highest temperature rise (when combined with the gas control knob at its highest position). Turning it to the extreme left provides the greatest flow and least temperature rise. The gas control knob also influences water temperature.
- Battery Sparker (TE80X, TE125X): These models require two D-Cell batteries installed in a compartment accessed by removing the front shield. A flashing battery status indicator signals the need for replacement.
- Pilot Light (TE80P, TE125P): These models have a pilot light. To ignite, turn the gas control knob left (about 20°), press and turn left until a click from the piezoelectric lighter is heard. Hold the knob for about 10 seconds.
- Safety Features:
- Overheating Protection: A temperature limiter (item 11 in Fig.14) shuts off gas flow to the main and ignition burners if the water temperature in the heat exchanger exceeds 200°F.
- Flue Gas Outflow Protection: A temperature limiter (item 10 in Fig.14) protects against flue gas outflow to the room, activating at 185 ± 5.4°F.
- Anti-fuel Flow Protection: Based on ionization flame control, this device prevents gas inflow to the burner if there is no flame.
- Pressure Relief Valve: An approved pressure relief valve must be installed on the hot water line out of the unit to prevent over-pressurization. It should be manually actuated once a year.
- Installation: The heater should be installed in a location with adequate combustion air supply and proper venting, as close as possible to a chimney or vent, and away from freezing conditions. Clearances to combustible materials must be maintained. It is designed for wall mounting on a load-bearing wall, with specific clearances from the front and bottom.
Maintenance Features:
- Annual Check-up: The unit should be checked annually by a certified technician or licensed plumber.
- Venting System: Should be checked annually, cleaned, and repaired as needed.
- Heat Exchanger: In hard water areas, periodic de-scaling may be necessary. This involves removing the heat exchanger and flushing coils with a de-scaling solution or acetic acid (10-20% concentration) for 10-15 minutes (or 3 hours for acetic acid).
- Burner: Clean cover plates on burner segments with a soft brush. Check for damage to cover plates and segments.
- Water Filter: Clean periodically if water flow is reduced or debris is found in the water supply. Turn off cold water and gas supply lines, remove the inlet filter screen, rinse, and re-insert.
- Gas Filter: If gas flow to the main burner is reduced or the burner doesn't light, clean the gas filter on the gas supply pipe. If no external filter, clean the inner gas filter in the gas/water unit.
- Protection Equipment Check-up: Regularly verify the correct operation of the temperature limiters for flue gas outflow and heat exchanger overheating.
- Gas Conversion: The manual provides detailed instructions for converting the heater to different gas types (Natural Gas or Propane) by replacing gas cones, gas cone seats, main burner nozzles, and ignition burner nozzles. This must be performed by a qualified service agency. Leak tests and adjustments are required after conversion.