1. Product Overview
The EXCEL Tankless Gas Water Heater is designed to provide instant hot water for various applications, including small apartments, lofts, flats, RVs, and mobile homes. This unit operates on Propane (LPG) and features exclusive low water pressure startup technology, requiring only 2 PSI of water pressure to activate. Its vent-free design eliminates the need for complex and costly flue installations, making it a convenient and energy-efficient solution for on-demand hot water.
Figure 1.1: Front and side view of the EXCEL Tankless Gas Water Heater, showcasing its compact design and control knobs.
Key Features:
- Propane Gas (LPG) Unit: Designed for use with liquid propane gas.
- Low Water Pressure Startup: Activates with as little as 2 PSI of water pressure, ideal for areas with fluctuating water supply. This is achieved through a magnetic water flow sensor, unlike older units that rely on rubber diaphragms requiring higher pressure.
- Vent-Free Technology: Does not require a traditional flue or ductwork for exhaust. Equipped with an Oxygen Depletion Safety (ODS) shutoff and an exclusive 20-minute safety shutoff feature for indoor installation with proper ventilation.
- Compact Size: Dimensions are approximately 12.8 inches (front width) x 8 inches (depth) x 18.75 inches (height), allowing for flexible installation.
- Automatic Ignition: Powered by 2 D-size batteries (included) for automatic ignition upon water flow.
- Energy and Water Saving: Delivers hot water instantly, reducing waste.
2. Safety Information
Read and understand all safety warnings and instructions before installing, operating, or performing maintenance on this appliance. Failure to follow these instructions could result in property damage, personal injury, or death.
General Safety Precautions:
- This appliance must be installed by a qualified professional in accordance with all local codes and regulations.
- Ensure adequate ventilation when installing the unit indoors due to its vent-free design.
- Do not store or use gasoline or other flammable vapors and liquids in the vicinity of this or any other appliance.
- Check for gas leaks using a soapy water solution after installation and during maintenance. Never use an open flame.
- The unit is equipped with an Oxygen Depletion Safety (ODS) shutoff system and a 20-minute safety shutoff feature. Do not bypass or tamper with these safety devices.
- Ensure proper battery installation for automatic ignition. Use new, high-quality D-size alkaline batteries.
- Protect the unit from freezing temperatures. Drain the unit if it will be exposed to freezing conditions (see Maintenance section).
- This product contains chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm (Proposition 65 warning).
3. Setup and Installation
Proper installation is critical for the safe and efficient operation of your EXCEL Tankless Gas Water Heater. Refer to the diagrams below for connection points.
Component Identification:
Figure 3.1: Connection points at the bottom of the unit.
Figure 3.2: Location of the Winter Drain and Battery Box.
Installation Steps:
- Mounting: Securely mount the unit to a wall using appropriate hardware. Ensure the mounting surface can support the weight of the unit when filled with water.
- Water Connections:
- Connect the cold water supply line to the Cold Water Inlet.
- Connect the hot water output line to the Hot Water Outlet.
- Ensure all water connections are tight and leak-free. Use appropriate sealing tape or compound.
- Gas Connection:
- Connect the Propane (LPG) gas supply line to the Gas Inlet. The unit includes an LPG Brass Fitting for a ⅜" Flare connection.
- Verify all gas connections are secure and test for leaks using a soapy water solution.
- Battery Installation: Open the battery box and insert two D-size batteries. Ensure correct polarity. These batteries power the automatic ignition system.
- Ventilation: For indoor installations, ensure the area has adequate ventilation as this is a vent-free appliance.
Figure 3.3: Internal view highlighting the magnetic water flow sensor, which enables low water pressure startup.
4. Operating Instructions
Follow these steps to operate your EXCEL Tankless Gas Water Heater.
Initial Startup:
- Ensure all water and gas connections are properly made and leak-free.
- Open the main gas supply valve.
- Open a hot water faucet in your system. The unit will detect water flow (as low as 2 PSI) and automatically ignite.
- Allow water to run for a few moments to purge any air from the lines.
Daily Operation:
- To get hot water, simply open any hot water faucet connected to the unit. The heater will automatically ignite and begin heating water as it flows through.
- The unit is designed for a temperature rise of approximately 45°F, delivering 1.6 Gallons Per Minute (GPM).
- While suitable for multiple points of use, it is recommended to use no more than one point of use at a time for optimal performance.
- For incoming cold water temperatures below 50°F (down to 40°F), you may need to reduce the water flow rate using the control knob to achieve desired hot water temperature.
- The unit features a 20-minute safety shutoff. If hot water is continuously drawn for more than 20 minutes, the unit will automatically shut off. To restart, close the hot water faucet and then reopen it.
5. Maintenance
Regular maintenance ensures the longevity and efficient operation of your water heater.
Routine Checks:
- Battery Replacement: Replace the two D-size batteries annually, or if the ignition becomes inconsistent. Use high-quality alkaline batteries.
- Leak Inspection: Periodically check all water and gas connections for leaks. For gas leaks, use a soapy water solution.
- Exterior Cleaning: Clean the exterior of the unit with a soft, damp cloth. Do not use abrasive cleaners or solvents.
Winterization (Freezing Protection):
If the unit will be exposed to freezing temperatures, it is crucial to drain all water from the system to prevent damage.
- Turn off the gas supply to the unit.
- Turn off the cold water supply to the unit.
- Open a hot water faucet in your system to relieve pressure.
- Locate the Winter Drain valve at the bottom of the unit (refer to Figure 3.2). Open this valve to drain the water from the heat exchanger.
- Once drained, close the drain valve.
Figure 5.1: Internal view of the copper heat exchanger, which should be drained to prevent freezing damage.
6. Troubleshooting
This section provides solutions to common issues you might encounter with your water heater.
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| No hot water / Unit does not ignite | No water flow or insufficient water pressure | Ensure water supply is on and water pressure is at least 2 PSI. Check for kinks in water lines. |
| Dead or low batteries | Replace both D-size batteries with new alkaline batteries. | |
| No gas supply | Ensure gas tank is not empty and gas supply valve is fully open. | |
| ODS or 20-minute safety shutoff activated | Ensure adequate ventilation. If unit ran for 20 minutes, close and reopen hot water faucet to reset. | |
| Water is not hot enough | High water flow rate for incoming temperature | Reduce water flow rate using the control knob on the unit. |
| Low incoming water temperature | The unit adds approximately 45°F to incoming water. If incoming water is very cold, the output temperature will be lower. Reduce flow rate. | |
| Gas or water leaks | Loose connections or damaged components | Tighten all connections. If leaks persist, contact a qualified professional for inspection and repair. Do not attempt to repair gas leaks yourself. |
If the problem persists after attempting these solutions, contact a qualified service technician.
7. Specifications
Technical specifications for the EXCEL Tankless Gas Water Heater.
Figure 7.1: Product label with detailed specifications.
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Brand | EXCEL |
| Model Number | 850020757060 |
| Product Dimensions (W x D x H) | 12.8" x 8" x 18.75" (approx.) |
| Item Weight | 8.6 pounds |
| Fuel Type | Propane (LPG) |
| Voltage | 3 Volts (for ignition) |
| Batteries Required | 2 D-size batteries |
| Maximum Flow Rate | 1.6 Gallons Per Minute (GPM) |
| Heat Output | 40,000 British Thermal Units (BTU) |
| Temperature Rise | Adds approximately 45°F to cold water |
| Minimum Water Pressure Startup | 2 PSI |
| Maximum Operating Pressure | 120 PSI |
| Safety Features | Oxygen Depletion Safety (ODS) shutoff, 20-minute safety shutoff |
| Mounting Type | Wall Mount |
| Included Components | 2 Size D Batteries, Exhaust diffuser Plate, LPG Brass Fitting for ⅜" Flare connection |
8. Warranty and Support
For warranty information and technical support, please refer to the documentation included with your purchase or contact the seller directly. The seller for this product is typically Energy-Store.
For additional resources and product information, you may visit the official EXCEL website: www.excelonlinestore.com