Welcome
Thank you for purchasing an Alpha Instant Water Heater. Please read this manual thoroughly and understand the terms before use. Keep this manual handy for future reference.
Signal Explanation & Safety Precautions
Signal Explanation:
⚠️ Indicating when product is used wrongly, user may get serious injury or damage to property. Please read carefully and follow the specified note.
Safety Precautions:
- Do not install the heater with reverse INLET and OUTLET.
- Do not install the heater directly in a consistent spray. ❌
- Do not use the heater if the AUTO TEST or LINE FAULT indicator shows a RED light.
- Do not block the heater OUTLET in any way. ❌
- Do not attempt to repair the unit yourself. ❌
- Do not leave children, elderly, or disabled persons alone in the shower. ❌❌
- Engage a qualified electrician for installation.
- Test the water temperature with your hand before stepping into the shower.
Part Description: SMART 18E/18EP/18i Series Heater
External Part Identification - SMART 18EP / 18i
The heater features a Heater Cover, Auto Test Indicator, Heater Indicator, LINE FAULT Indicator, Pump Control Knob, Temperature Control Knob, TEST and RESET Button, Stop Valve, Pump Activator Button, Filter Unit, and Regulator Unit.
Diagram shows external components of the Smart 18EP/18i model, including the heater cover with various indicators and control knobs.
External Part Identification - SMART 18E
The Smart 18E model includes a Heater Cover, Auto Test Indicator, Heater Indicator, LINE FAULT Indicator, Temperature Control Knob, TEST Button, Stop Valve, Filter Unit, and Regulator Unit.
Diagram shows external components of the Smart 18E model, similar to the 18EP/18i but without the pump control features.
Internal Part Identification - SMART 18EP / 18i
Internal components include: Heater Base Terminal Block, Cable Clamp, Side Cable Entry, Pump Control PCB, Pump Assembly, Built-in ELSD, Heater Base Mounting Holes, Heating Element, Thermal Cut-out, Heater Tank, Pump Control Unit, Triac, Electronics Control Unit, Flow Switch Assembly, TEST and RESET PCB, Water INLET Connection, and Pump Activator, Water OUTLET Connection.
Diagram illustrates the internal layout of the Smart 18EP/18i, detailing the placement of the heating element, pump, control units, and safety devices.
Internal Part Identification - SMART 18E
Internal components for the Smart 18E include: Heater Base Terminal Block, Cable Clamp, Side Cable Entry, Indicators PCB, Flow Switch Assembly, Water INLET Connection, Built-in ELSD, Heater Base Mounting Holes, Heating Element, Thermal Cut-out, Heater Tank, Triac, Electronic Control Unit, TEST/RESET PCB, and Water OUTLET Connection.
Diagram shows the internal structure of the Smart 18E, highlighting its heating element, control electronics, and safety features.
Accessories
Standard Set:
Includes a Handshower, Rail Support, Sliding Rail, Shower Holder, and a 5' Flexible Hose.
Diagram shows the standard shower accessories, including a handshower on a sliding rail and its mounting components.
Rain Shower Set (Optional Features):
Includes a Rain Shower Head, Diverter, Sliding Rail, Fix Plate Support, and Fix Plate. The installation involves drilling holes, securing plates, joining rails, connecting the shower head, and connecting flexible hoses from the heater outlet to the diverter and then to the handshower.
Diagram illustrates the optional rain shower set, showing its components and assembly steps, including hose connections.
General Information - Electrical
CAUTION: THIS APPLIANCE MUST BE EARTHED.
- All wiring MUST conform to local regulations. Consult a qualified electrician if in doubt.
- Installation must be carried out by a qualified electrician.
- The heater must be permanently connected to the electricity supply through a double pole linked switch with a contact separation of at least 3mm in all poles, and positioned out of reach of the user.
- The use of plug and socket is not recommended.
- Correct size of wire conductor corresponding to different electrical loading should be used.
Electrical Loading Table:
Voltage (V~) | Power (kW) | Amperes (A) | Fuse/ MCB (A) | ON/OFF Switch (A) | Recommended Conductor Size (csa) - mm² Conduit Cable | Recommended Conductor Size (csa) - mm² Flexible Cable | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
220-240V~ 50/60Hz | 3.5 | 16.0 | 4.0 | 20 | 20 | 7/0.85mm (56/0.30) | 7/0.85mm (56/0.30) |
220-240V~ 50/60Hz | 4.5 | 20.5 | 4.0 | 25 | 25 | 7/0.85mm (56/0.30) | 7/0.85mm (56/0.30) |
220-240V~ 50/60Hz | 5.5 | 25.0 | 4.0 | 32 | 32 | 7/0.85mm (56/0.30) | 7/0.85mm (56/0.30) |
220-240V~ 50/60Hz | 6.0 | 27.3 | 4.0 | 32 | 32 | 7/0.85mm (56/0.30) | 7/0.85mm (56/0.30) |
220-240V~ 50/60Hz | 6.5 | 29.6 | 4.0 | 40 | 40 | 7/0.85mm (56/0.30) | 7/0.85mm (56/0.30) |
220-240V~ 50/60Hz | 7.5 | 34.1 | 6.0 | 40 | 40 | 7/1.04mm (84/0.30) | 7/1.04mm (84/0.30) |
220-240V~ 50/60Hz | 8.0 | 36.4 | 6.0 | 40 | 40 | 7/1.04mm (84/0.30) | 7/1.04mm (84/0.30) |
230-240V~ 50/60Hz | 3.5 | 15.2 | 4.0 | 20 | 20 | 7/0.85mm (56/0.30) | 7/0.85mm (56/0.30) |
230-240V~ 50/60Hz | 5.5 | 24.0 | 4.0 | 32 | 32 | 7/0.85mm (56/0.30) | 7/0.85mm (56/0.30) |
230-240V~ 50/60Hz | 6.6 | 28.7 | 4.0 | 32 | 32 | 7/0.85mm (56/0.30) | 7/0.85mm (56/0.30) |
230-240V~ 50/60Hz | 8.8 | 38.3 | 6.0 | 45 | 45 | 7/1.04mm (84/0.30) | 7/1.04mm (84/0.30) |
240-240V~ 50/60Hz | 3.6 | 15.0 | 4.0 | 20 | 20 | 7/0.85mm (56/0.30) | 7/0.85mm (56/0.30) |
240-240V~ 50/60Hz | 4.2 | 17.5 | 4.0 | 20 | 20 | 7/0.85mm (56/0.30) | 7/0.85mm (56/0.30) |
240-240V~ 50/60Hz | 7.1 | 29.6 | 4.0 | 40 | 40 | 7/0.85mm (56/0.30) | 7/0.85mm (56/0.30) |
240-240V~ 50/60Hz | 9.5 | 39.6 | 6.0 | 45 | 45 | 7/1.04mm (84/0.30) | 7/1.04mm (84/0.30) |
Table 1: Electrical Loading Table
Wiring and Plumbing Diagrams:
Diagram 1: General Wiring Connection
Illustrates connections to a Fuse Distributor Panel/MCB, Residual Current Device (RCD), ON/OFF Switch, and Junction Box, using double-coated conduit cable or flexible cord. It specifies conductor sizes based on the Electrical Loading Table.
Diagram 2: General Plumbing Connection
Shows the water inlet and outlet connections. For Smart-18EP/18i, water supply is typically from a household gravity water storage tank. For Smart-18E, water supply is direct from the mains.
General Information - Water & Safety
Water:
- The heater operates at a minimum water flow rate of 3 liters/min. For models without a built-in pump, a consistent flow rate of 5 liters/min and above will enhance performance.
- A typical plumbing connection is shown in Diagram 2.
Safety:
Note: An approved type of Residual Current Device (RCD) of 10mA sensitivity should be installed in conjunction with the heater.
- The built-in Earth Leakage Sensing Device (ELSD) cuts off power if leakage is as low as 15mA.
- Upon power on, the heater performs a 10-second 'self-test'. If the ELSD is functional, AUTO TEST indicators light up GREEN. If faulty, they blink RED, and power is cut.
- The built-in Line Fault Detector indicates GREEN for correct wiring or RED for improper wiring.
- The heater operates when sufficient water triggers the Flow Switch.
- The Thermal Cut-out automatically cuts off power if shower temperature rises abnormally.
- Heater casing has a high degree of protection (IP25) to prevent water entry.
Important Notes:
- This heater is tested for use in shower cubicles but should not be installed where it is exposed to direct spray. ❌
- If the ELSD trips during normal operation, switch off the mains supply and contact the sales agent for repair.
- If Auto Test and Line Fault Indicators show RED, switch off the mains supply and contact a qualified electrician.
- Never attempt to repair the unit yourself if it malfunctions. ❌
- The outlet point, hose, and handshower act as a vent and must not be blocked, obstructed, or modified. Use only manufacturer-recommended fittings.
- A sudden reduction in incoming water may increase shower temperature; this is not a heater fault. Adjust the Temperature Control Knob or Regulator Unit as needed.
- Always test water spray temperature with your hand before showering.
- This appliance is not intended for use by persons with reduced physical, sensory, or mental capabilities, or lack of experience, unless supervised or instructed by a responsible person.
- Do not leave children, elderly, or infirm persons unattended in the shower.
Installation Procedures
IMPORTANT:
- All plumbing work should be completed before electrical wiring.
- Metallic/chromed hoses and conductive control valves are not recommended (Malaysia: government regulations; optional for others).
- Heater outlet must not be connected to any tap or fittings not recommended by the manufacturer.
- The unit must be installed on a solid wall to prevent distortion.
- Inlet and Outlet connections should not be reversed.
1. Decide Mounting Position:
- Turn off the water source.
- Remove the screw at the bottom of the heater.
- Remove the Heater Cover by lifting upwards from the bottom.
- Mark out 4 mounting points on the wall.
Note: It is recommended to mount the bottom of the heater 1.50 meters (5 feet) above the bathroom floor. The installation height is at the user's discretion.
Diagram shows how to remove the heater cover and mark mounting points on the wall, with a note on recommended installation height.
2. Mounting of the Heater:
- Drill 4 holes using a 5.0mm diameter drill bit.
- Insert wall plugs and mount the heater to the wall using the provided screws.
Diagram shows drilling holes, inserting wall plugs, and securing the heater to the wall with screws. It also shows heater base dimensions.
3. Shower Accessories Installation:
- Fix the Shower Holder and Rail Supports (Top and Bottom) onto the Sliding Rail.
- Mark the positions of the 2 holes for the Rail Supports, ensuring the top portion is level or not higher than the top of the heater.
- Drill the holes and mount the shower accessories using wall plugs and screws. Insert Rail Support Caps onto the Rail Supports.
Diagram illustrates attaching the shower holder and rail supports to the sliding rail and mounting them on the wall.
4. Connection of Heater Inlet and Outlet:
- Connect the Stop Valve to the heater Inlet using the provided rubber seal.
- Connect the incoming water supply to the Stop Valve. Use sealing tape if necessary to prevent leaks.
- Connect the Flexible Hose to the heater Outlet. (Do not connect the other end to the handshower yet).
- Turn on the water supply to drain out plumbing dirt and fill the heater tank. This prevents damage to the Heating Element.
- Connect the other end of the flexible hose to the handshower, ensuring the Filter Mesh Washer is in place to prevent dirt entry.
Note: Do not apply excessive force to tighten connections. Excessive force can damage connectors. Do not bend the flexible hose or install accessories that block water flow at the outlet.
Diagram shows the correct connection of the stop valve to the inlet, water supply, and flexible hose to the outlet, including a note about draining dirt and the filter mesh washer.
5. Electrical Connection:
CAUTION: Make sure the electrical mains is off before carrying out electrical work.
- Insert the electrical cable through the rubber grommet for side entry or wall embedded entry.
- Connect the cable to the Terminal Block and tighten fully:
- RED or BROWN cable to LIVE (L).
- BLACK or BLUE cable to NEUTRAL (N).
- GREEN/YELLOW or YELLOW/GREEN cable to EARTH (⏚).
- Replace the Heater Cover:
- Ensure the Electronic Control Unit and Pump Control Unit are in the 'OFF' position.
- Install the heater cover, aligning the Temperature Control Knob and Pump Control Knob to their respective units.
- Secure the cover with the screw.
Diagram shows electrical cable entry and connection to the terminal block (Live, Neutral, Earth). Another diagram shows the correct positioning of control units before replacing the cover.
6. Test Run Of Heater:
- Turn on the Stop Valve.
- Switch on the heater switch. The 'AUTO TEST' and 'LINE FAULT INDICATOR' should light up. Proceed if they display GREEN.
- CAUTION: Stop using the heater and check wiring if 'AUTO TEST' and 'LINE FAULT INDICATOR' display RED light.
- Turn on the Temperature Control Knob. The 'HEATER' indicator should light up. Water should become warm within seconds.
- Water temperature increases as the knob is turned clockwise.
- Check the built-in ELSD:
- Press 'TEST' button: The unit should trip and cut off power.
- Press 'RESET' button: The unit should resume normal function.
Operating Procedures
- Switch on the heater switch outside the bathroom. The 'AUTO TEST' and 'LINE FAULT' indicators should light up.
- CAUTION: 'AUTO TEST' and 'LINE FAULT INDICATOR' must indicate GREEN. Otherwise, do not use the unit and contact an agent for repair.
- Turn on the Stop Valve. Adjust the Regulator Unit for suitable water shower volume.
- Turn on the Temperature Control Knob. The 'HEATER' indicator will light up. The shower temperature increases as the knob is turned clockwise from 'ON' to 'MAX'.
- For a normal cold shower, set the Temperature Control Knob to 'OFF'.
- Switch off the heater switch when not in use.
Note:
- Shower water may not be hot enough even at 'MAX' in areas with exceptionally high water pressure and cold temperatures. This can be remedied by reducing water inflow or using a higher power unit (if approved).
- The built-in Pump (Smart 18EP/18i) can be controlled independently using the Pump Control Knob. In low-pressure areas (below 15 p.s.i.), adjust pump speed for desired spray. In high-pressure areas (over 15 p.s.i.), turn the Pump Control Knob to 'OFF' for a hotter shower.
- The Pump Activator (Smart 18EP/18i) is designed for low-pressure areas. Press the Pump Activator Button to engage the shower pump.
- It is recommended to operate the pump at intervals of 30 minutes with 30 minutes rest in between (Smart 18EP/18i).
Customer Guidance:
- Connection of heater INLET: Connect Stop Valve to INLET.
- Connection of heater OUTLET: Connect Flexible Hose to OUTLET.
- Temperature Control Knob: Turn to reduce heater power (counter-clockwise) or increase heater power (clockwise).
- Built-in ELSD: Check at least once a month by pressing 'TEST' (heater trips) and 'RESET' (heater resumes). Contact agent for repair if malfunctioning.
- Stop Valve: Turn ON or OFF.
- Regulator Unit: Adjust clockwise to reduce water inflow if shower temperature is not hot enough even at 'MAX' power setting.
g) LINE FAULT INDICATOR: (Optional) A Red Warning Light indicates improper electrical connection. Possible causes include: Earth wire not connected, Live/Neutral phases reversed, or Earth conductor not grounded/high resistance. Ensure proper earthing to avoid malfunctioning of RCD/ELCB.
Diagrams illustrate connections for Inlet, Outlet, Temperature Control Knob, ELSD check, Stop Valve, and Regulator Unit.
Maintenance
DO NOT USE THINNER, ALCOHOL OR PETROL.
You may clean the heater with a damp cloth and mild detergent. Do not use thinner, alcohol, petrol, or any other corrosive solutions.
CLEAN FILTER REGULARLY:
The filter should be cleaned whenever there is a sign of inlet water blockage.
- Stop Valve: Remove Filter Mesh Button. Pull out the Stop Valve Filter Mesh and flush it with water to remove sediments. Reinsert and secure it.
- Handshower: Disconnect the handshower from the hose. Remove the Filter Mesh Washer and flush it with water to remove sediments. Reassemble the handshower to the hose.
Note: Turn off incoming water supply before maintenance. Clean more regularly in areas with dirty inlet water supply. The design of the stop valve may vary by country.
Diagrams show the Stop Valve and Handshower filter cleaning process.
Rain Shower Installation (Optional Feature)
- Step 1: Drill holes (4 x 6mm) according to dimensions. Insert Wall Plugs. The installation height should accommodate the tallest user, ensuring the handshower hose reaches the full length of the sliding rail.
- Step 2: Secure the Fix Plates (2 units) with screws.
- Step 3: Join the Upper and Lower Sliding Rails.
- Step 4: Connect the Rainshower Head to the Sliding Rail.
- Step 5: Place the Rain Shower Set by inserting the Fix Plate Support into the Fix Plate.
- Step 6: Connect a 3' Flexible Hose from the heater outlet to the diverter.
- Step 7: Connect a 5' Flexible Hose from the diverter to the Handshower.
- Step 8: Select the desired water spray type.
Diagrams illustrate each step of the rain shower installation, from drilling and mounting to hose connections and spray selection.
Schematic Wiring Diagrams
The document provides schematic wiring diagrams for three models:
- MODEL: Smart-18E: Shows mains supply (Live, Neutral) connected via a double pole ELSD to the terminal block, then to the thermal cut-out, heating element, and electronic control unit.
- MODEL: Smart-18EP: Similar to 18E but includes a motor (pump), ON/OFF switch, Triac, and pump control PCB, with connections for the pump activator and speed control potentiometer.
- MODEL: Smart-18i: Features mains supply, ELSD, thermal cut-out, Triac, electronic control PCB (AHECCTL), pump (M), ON/OFF switch, pump activator, and a static converter for low voltage DC. It also shows connections for the ELSD & Line Fault Indicator and a potentiometer for adjustment.
Diagrams visually represent the electrical pathways and component connections for each specific model.
Specifications
Feature | Details |
---|---|
Heater Power Rating | Smart-18E: 3.60kW 240V ~ 50Hz Smart-18EP: 3.72kW 240V~50Hz Smart-18i: 3.66kW 240V~50Hz |
Other Power Rating | Refer to Electrical Loading Table |
Water Connection | Ø 15.0mm (1/2" BSP) |
Operating Condition | Open Outlet |
Protection Against Electric Shock | Class I |
Water Temperature Control | Electronics |
Degree Of Protection | IP25 |
Minimum Flow Rate | 3 liters / minute |
Minimum Pressure | 20kPa (0.2 bar / 2.9 psi) |
Maximum Inlet Pressure | 0.38MPa (3.8 bar / 55psi) |
Heater Dimension | 230mm (W) x 413.50mm (L) x 91.30mm (H) |
Heater Nett Weight | Smart-18E: 1.4kg Smart-18EP: 2.5kg Smart-18i: 2.0kg |
* Due to minor design changes, pictures may differ from the actual product.
All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced without prior written permission from Alpha Electric Co Sdn Bhd.