Rinnai HydraHeat™ Integrated Hot Water Heat Pump
Installation Guide
This document outlines the installation process for the Rinnai HydraHeat Integrated Hot Water Heat Pump system, which includes a head unit and a storage cylinder. It is designed primarily for residential applications.
Important Information
WARNING: Installation and service must be performed by a licensed tradesperson. Read all operation and installation information before use. Do not place articles on or against the appliance, store chemicals nearby, operate with covers removed, or activate heating elements when the system is not full of water.
The system is equipped with a Temperature & Pressure Relief (TPR) Valve and over-temperature controls. Tampering with safety devices is prohibited. Ensure the cylinder is full of water before energising the system to prevent damage.
The head unit should only be handled using the provided hand holds and must never be placed on its side.
Note: Refrigerants may not contain an odour. Do not pierce or burn the unit.
Before You Start
Unpack all components and check for damage. Ensure all parts are present before installation. Read these instructions thoroughly to avoid malfunctions, injury, or property damage.
Head Unit Handling: Ensure the head unit is oriented correctly during delivery. If inverted, place it upright and allow one hour for oil rebalancing. Do not install if oil has leaked from pipes.
Components:
- Cylinder components include: TPR valve, insulation covers, cable ties, TPR brass reducing socket (20-15), brass extension sockets and plugs (20 mm) for unused connections, and instructions.
- Head unit components include: Instructions and fixing screws (x4).
Specifications
The Rinnai HydraHeat Integrated is designed for outdoor installation, with potential for internal installation in unoccupied spaces. It is preset to 'Standard' mode, heating water to a minimum of 60°C.
Scope of Use: Primarily residential. Install close to hot water outlets. Not suitable for spa, swimming pool, or hydronic applications. Hard or acidic water may require treatment.
Specification | Value |
---|---|
Operating temperatures | -10 °C to +42 °C |
Outlet water temperature | Standard: 60 °C, Eco 55 °C, Eco 50 °C |
Storage capacity | 275 L and 340 L |
Max. valve pressure settings (TPR) | 850 kPa, 99 °C, 10 kW |
Max. valve pressure settings (Cold water expansion) | 700 kPa |
Max. valve pressure settings (Pressure limiting) | 500 kPa |
Coefficient of Performance (COP) | 4.7 (at 19 °C ambient, 19 °C water, eco mode 55) |
Rated heat pump input/output | 802 W / 3725 W |
Max. current (heat pump standard mode) | 4.6 A |
Max. current (heat pump element only) | 9.6 A |
Max. current (boost mode) | 14.2 A |
Backup resistance element rating | 2 kW |
Max. heating capacity | 5500 W (boost mode) |
Min. inlet water pressure | 100 kPa |
IP rating | IPX4 (head unit and tank) |
Sound pressure level at 1 m | 45 dB(A) |
Power supply | 230-240 V 50 Hz |
Refrigerant type / mass | R-290 / 150 g |
Refrigeration classification | A3 flammable |
Dimensions
The system consists of a head unit and a cylinder. The cylinder features dual plumbing connections for hot, cold, and drainage, all 3/4" (20 mm). Detailed dimensions are provided in diagrams.
Data Labels
Specific model data labels for the Rinnai Electric Storage Water Heater (275 L / 340 L) and the Rinnai Hot Water Heat Pump are provided, detailing model numbers, electrical specifications, pressure ratings, and manufacturing information.
Schematic
The system comprises a two-piece design with a corrosion-proof plastic heat pump base. It includes a flexible hose connection tank-top module and an all-weather OLED display with capacitive touch controls. A schematic diagram illustrates the internal components of the head unit and cylinder.
Location
WARNING: Ensure installation complies with AS/NZS 5149 due to flammable refrigerant. Avoid locations exposed to combustible gas leaks.
Install the HydraHeat as close as practicable to frequently used hot water outlets. For internal installations, the location must not be an 'occupied space' as defined by AS/NZS 5149.1 3.2.6. Avoid installation directly below windows, in areas where air inlets/outlets can be blocked, or in heavily planted areas. Coastal installations require shelter from salt spray.
Clearances
Diagrams illustrate required minimum clearances around the head unit for proper air circulation and maintenance access. Key clearances include 400 mm on sides and front, 500 mm above, and 10 mm at the condensate outlet.
Connections and Plumbing Arrangement
All plumbing must comply with G12/AS1 and AS/NZS 3500.4. Pipework should be insulated for performance and energy efficiency. Warnings are provided regarding sealed or blocked valves and drain pipes. Use of thread tape is not recommended. A strainer must be installed. Ensure insulated caps are used on plugged ports.
Outlet Port: 20 mm BSP female connection for hot water.
Inlet Port: 20 mm BSP female connection for cold water. A drain-off tap or line is required. A pressure-reducing valve may be needed if water pressure exceeds rated limits. Insulate all water pipes to prevent freezing.
Condensate: Condensation from the evaporator requires plumbing to a drain via a 19 mm tapered connection.
Drain Valves: Drain lines must not cause nuisance or damage. TPR relief lines should not discharge onto the base.
TPR Valve: Must be installed vertically, with discharge pipe insulated. It is rated at 850 kPa, 99°C, 10 kW.
Safe Tray: A drained safe tray is required where leaks may cause damage.
Pipe Work: Adequately size pipework for performance. Do not drill into the water heater.
Seismic Constraint: Building codes require adequate support against earthquake forces, with specific acceptable solutions referencing AS/NZS 3500.4 and NZS 4607.
Storage and Delivery Temperatures
The system includes a weekly disinfection cycle to heat water above 60°C for legionella control. Access to the element and thermostat requires a qualified tradesperson. Delivered hot water temperatures must prevent scalding, meeting AS/NZS 3500.4 and G12/AS1 requirements. Tempering valves may be required.
Cylinder Thermostat: Factory set to 70°C. Adjustment will void the warranty.
Water Quality
Water quality must meet New Zealand regulations and be within specified impurity limits to maintain warranty. Key parameters include TDS, Hardness, Alkalinity, pH, Chlorides, Free Chlorine, Manganese, Sodium, Iron, Sulphate, Nitrate, Alkalinity/Sulphate ratio, and LSI.
Filtration: An inline filter is recommended to protect the unit from corrosion and wear caused by debris.
Stagnation: Avoid leaving water stagnant; flush the system every eight weeks if not in use.
Bore and Tank Water: Test bore and tank water supplies for corrosivity and ensure they meet the specified water quality parameters.
Electrical Supply and Connections
Electrical connections must be made by a qualified person according to AS/NZS 3000. The system requires an independent, fused AC 230V 50Hz power supply with an isolating switch. Power must not be activated until the system is filled with water. Household wiring must be capable of handling the appliance load.
Electrical access for the cylinder and tank is via holes in the element covers, requiring approved conduit glands. Wiring diagrams for the head unit and cylinder are provided.
Note: Perform an Earth Continuity Test after filling the cylinder with water.
Wiring Diagrams
Detailed wiring diagrams for the head unit and cylinder are provided, including component labels and wire colour codes. The cylinder requires a minimum 20 Amp, 230-240 VAC 50 Hz supply.
Connecting the Head Unit and Cylinder
This process requires two people. Steps include isolating water and power, removing access panels, routing and connecting braided stainless steel hoses, making electrical connections, filling the system, commissioning, and securing the head unit with screws. A five-minute startup delay for the compressor is standard, which can be overridden.
Note: Brass caps from hose ports should be retained for future maintenance.
Commissioning
Commissioning, filling, and draining must be performed by an authorised person. Ensure the cylinder is full before powering on. Follow steps for filling, turning off, and draining the system. The operation sequence involves a startup display, a compressor delay (overridable), and heating the internal condenser.
Controller Interface
The HydraHeat controller features a compact OLED display with capacitive touch buttons for easy menu access. It displays the current operating mode (default 'Standard'). Navigation involves 'OK', 'Down', and 'Back' buttons. Various operation modes (Standard, Eco 55, Element Only, Shutdown) and timer functions can be set.
Error Codes
The system displays error codes and beeps when errors occur. Common installation errors include electrical connection faults (T1, S8, S9). A table lists fault codes, possible causes, and recommended actions. The T1 fault relates to condenser over-temperature and may indicate no flow or overpressure; ensure air vents are clear and hoses are not kinked.
Manual Purging Procedure: Steps are provided to resolve T1 faults caused by airlocks, involving hose disconnection and water purging.
Set and Forget Timer
The timer function allows scheduling of operation times, useful for managing noise or energy use. Options include setting timers, resetting timers, and performing a factory reset (which clears settings but retains the default 'Standard' mode). The screen can be locked/unlocked.
Appendix: Commercial Concept Sketches
High-level sketches illustrate commercial system configurations, including ringmain and hydraulically balanced setups. These are illustrative and do not show every component.
Contact Information
For further information, contact Rinnai New Zealand Limited:
- Tel: 0800 746 624
- Website: rinnai.co.nz
- YouTube: youtube.com/rinnainz
- Facebook: facebook.com/rinnainz
Document Reference: Rinnai HydraHeat Integrated installation guide 31114-J