1. Introduction
This manual provides essential information for the proper installation, operation, and maintenance of your PROFLO PFXCHGT18 Stainless Steel Water Heater Connector. This connector is designed to provide a flexible and durable connection between your water heater and the water supply lines, ensuring reliable performance in residential and commercial plumbing applications. Please read this manual thoroughly before installation to ensure safe and efficient use.
Image 1.1: The PROFLO PFXCHGT18 Stainless Steel Water Heater Connector, shown in a curved configuration. This flexible hose features hexagonal nuts at both ends for secure attachment to plumbing fixtures.
2. Safety Information
Always adhere to local plumbing codes and regulations during installation. Failure to do so may result in property damage, injury, or voiding of warranties.
- Turn off Water Supply: Before beginning any work, ensure the main water supply to the water heater is completely shut off.
- Depressurize System: Open a hot water faucet in the house to relieve pressure in the hot water lines.
- Drain Water Heater: If replacing existing connectors, drain the water heater as per its manufacturer's instructions.
- Wear Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Use appropriate safety glasses and gloves to prevent injury.
- Professional Installation: If you are unsure about any step, consult a qualified plumber.
- Inspect for Damage: Before installation, carefully inspect the connector for any signs of damage or defects. Do not install a damaged connector.
3. Product Components
The PROFLO PFXCHGT18 Water Heater Connector consists of the following primary components:
- Stainless Steel Corrugated Hose: The flexible main body of the connector, made from durable stainless steel.
- Female Iron Pipe (FIP) Connections: Hexagonal nuts at both ends designed for secure, leak-tight connections to standard male pipe threads.
- Internal Gaskets/Washers: Pre-installed or included for sealing the connections.
Image 3.1: The PROFLO PFXCHGT18 Stainless Steel Water Heater Connector in a straight orientation, highlighting its corrugated design and end fittings.
4. Installation (Setup)
Follow these steps for proper installation of the water heater connector:
- Prepare Connections: Ensure the male pipe threads on both the water heater and the water supply line are clean and free of debris.
- Apply Sealant: Apply a suitable pipe thread sealant (e.g., PTFE tape or pipe dope) to the male pipe threads of the water heater and the water supply line. This helps ensure a watertight seal.
- Connect to Water Heater: Hand-tighten one end of the PROFLO connector onto the appropriate inlet/outlet port of the water heater.
- Connect to Water Supply: Hand-tighten the other end of the PROFLO connector onto the corresponding water supply line.
- Tighten Connections: Using an adjustable wrench, carefully tighten both connections. Do not overtighten, as this can damage the threads or the connector. A snug fit followed by a quarter to half turn is usually sufficient.
- Avoid Kinks: Ensure the connector is not kinked or bent at sharp angles, which can restrict flow or damage the hose.
- Restore Water Supply: Slowly open the main water supply valve to the water heater.
- Check for Leaks: Carefully inspect all connections for any signs of leaks. If leaks are present, tighten the connection slightly or re-apply sealant and re-tighten.
- Purge Air: Open a hot water faucet in the house to purge air from the system until water flows smoothly.
5. Operation
Once properly installed, the PROFLO PFXCHGT18 Water Heater Connector operates passively by facilitating the flow of water to and from your water heater. There are no active controls or user interactions required for its operation. The primary operational consideration is to ensure the connections remain leak-free and the connector is not subjected to external stresses.
6. Maintenance
The PROFLO PFXCHGT18 Water Heater Connector requires minimal maintenance. Regular inspection is recommended to ensure its continued integrity and performance.
- Periodic Inspection: Annually, or more frequently if concerns arise, visually inspect the connector for any signs of wear, corrosion, kinks, or leaks.
- Check for Leaks: Pay close attention to the connection points for any drips or moisture. Address any leaks immediately.
- Cleanliness: Keep the area around the connector clean and dry to prevent external corrosion.
- Avoid Stress: Ensure no heavy objects are resting on or pulling at the connector, which could cause undue stress.
7. Troubleshooting
Most issues related to water heater connectors involve leaks. Use the following guide to troubleshoot common problems:
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Leak at Connection Points |
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| Reduced Water Flow |
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| Corrosion on Connector |
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If troubleshooting steps do not resolve the issue, it is recommended to contact a qualified plumber.
8. Specifications
| Attribute | Detail |
|---|---|
| Model Number | PFXCHGT18 |
| Material | Stainless Steel |
| Connection Type | 1 FIP (Female Iron Pipe) |
| Length | 18 inches |
| Maximum Temperature | 180°F (82°C) |
| Certifications | IAPMO listed, Conforms to ASME A112.18.6 |
| Item Weight | Approximately 8.48 ounces |
| Product Dimensions (L x W x H) | 1 x 1 x 18 inches (approximate, as flexible) |
| UPC | 781889238158 |
9. Warranty Information
Specific warranty details for the PROFLO PFXCHGT18 Water Heater Connector are typically provided at the point of purchase or on the product packaging. For comprehensive warranty information, please refer to the documentation included with your purchase or visit the official PROFLO website. Keep your proof of purchase for any warranty claims.
10. Customer Support
For technical assistance, questions regarding installation, or to report a defective product, please contact PROFLO customer support. Contact information can usually be found on the PROFLO website or on the product packaging. When contacting support, please have your product model number (PFXCHGT18) and purchase details ready.
You can also visit the PROFLO Store on Amazon for more information and products.
