Rinnai Enviroflo Split - Electric Heat Pump Water Heaters

Safety and Regulatory Information

• DO NOT operate this system before reading the manufacturer's instructions.
• This appliance must be installed, commissioned, and serviced by an authorised person in accordance with all applicable local rules and regulations.
• Access covers of water heating system components expose 240V wiring and MUST only be removed by an authorised person.
• This appliance is not intended for use by persons (including children) with reduced physical, sensory, or mental capabilities, or lack of experience and knowledge, unless supervised by a responsible person.
• For continued safety, install, operate, and maintain the appliance according to manufacturer's instructions.
• Children should be supervised to ensure they DO NOT play with the appliance.
• The unit is rated at 15 amps (2 core and earth); the power mains MUST have a dedicated circuit breaker. If the power supply cable is damaged, it MUST be replaced by an authorised person.
• Take care not to touch power connections or plugs with wet hands.
• Care should be taken not to touch pipework as it may be HOT! ?
• DO NOT place articles on or against this appliance.
• DO NOT store chemicals or flammable materials near this appliance.
• DO NOT operate with collectors or covers removed.
• DO NOT activate heat pump unless cylinder is full of water.
• NEVER use a flammable spray (e.g., hair spray, paint) near this unit as it may cause a fire.
• This appliance uses R290 (propane) refrigerant, a flammable gas class 3 according to AS 5149. It MUST be handled by a refrigeration mechanic with an appropriate Australian refrigerant handling licence. Refer to AS/NZS 60335.2.40 for requirements.
• Risk of Fire / Flammable Material: If refrigerant leaks and an ignition source is present, ignition is possible. ⚠️

Mandatory Inspection Prior to Installation:

• Immediately report any damage or discrepancies to the Supplier.
• Inspect exterior for evidence of rough handling during shipment. Ensure appliance is labelled correctly for gas and electrical supply.
• Appliances that may be damaged or incorrect MUST NOT be installed or operated. Rinnai disclaims liability for installation or operation of damaged appliances.

Notice to Victorian Consumers:

This appliance must be installed by a person licensed with the Victorian Building Authority. Ensure you use a licensed person and ask for your Compliance Certificate. Contact the Victorian Building Authority on 1300 815 127 for further information.

Transport and Storage of Appliance

• The refrigerant used (R290 Propane) is a flammable gas. Store and transport in an area without ignition sources.
• DO NOT pierce or burn the appliance.
• Be aware that refrigerants may not contain an odour.
• Compliance with AS/NZS 5149 MUST be observed.
• National and state regulations exist for storage, handling, and transport of hazardous goods.

The Rinnai Electric Heat Pump must be transported at an angle no greater than 45° from vertical. Tilting beyond 45° can cause lubrication oil to enter the mufflers, leading to premature compressor failure. Returning to vertical may not allow oil to flow back properly. Tilting also places undue strain on motor mounts and piping.

WARNING: Do not use means to accelerate defrosting or cleaning other than those recommended by the manufacturer.

Store the appliance in a room without continuously operating ignition sources.

Scald Hazards

HOT WATER CAN CAUSE SCALDS.

CHILDREN, DISABLED, ELDERLY AND THE INFIRM ARE AT THE HIGHEST RISK OF BEING SCALDED.

FEEL WATER TEMPERATURE BEFORE BATHING OR SHOWERING.

SCALDS FROM HOT WATER TAPS CAN RESULT IN SEVERE INJURIES TO YOUNG CHILDREN.

SCALDS OCCUR WHEN CHILDREN ARE EXPOSED DIRECTLY TO HOT WATER WHEN THEY ARE PLACED INTO A BATH WHICH IS TOO HOT.

ALWAYS:

• Test water temperature with your elbow before bathing children or yourself.
• Supervise children in the bathroom.
• Ensure the hot water tap is turned off tightly.

CONSIDER:

• Installing child-proof tap covers or child-resistant taps.
• Installing tempering valves or thermostatic mixing valves to reduce hot water temperature. Contact your installer or local plumbing authority if in doubt.

NEVER:

• Leave a toddler in the care of another child.

Operating Principle

The electric heat pump operates by transferring heat from the ambient outside air into the water, using electricity primarily to run the system, not to directly heat water. This significantly reduces energy consumption compared to electric element systems. The warmer the climate, the more efficient the heat pump.

The unit includes a circulation pump to draw water from the bottom of the storage tank and return it at a higher temperature. A tank temperature sensor controls operation. During occasional times when ambient conditions are unsuitable, an electric element provides heating.

System Schematic

Safety Devices

The water heating system includes temperature sensors, overheat sensors, switches, and a Pressure & Temperature Relief (PTR) valve. These devices must not be tampered with or removed. The system must not be operated unless all devices are fitted and working.

• DO NOT tamper with or remove safety devices.
• DO NOT operate the water heater unless all safety devices are fitted and in working order.
• DO NOT block or seal the PTR Valve and drain pipe.

Hydrogen Gas

If the hot water unit is not used for two weeks or more, flammable hydrogen gas may accumulate. To dissipate this safely, turn on a non-electrically operated hot tap for two minutes. Ensure no smoking, open flames, or electrical appliances are operating nearby during this procedure. Hydrogen discharge may sound like air escaping.

Anodes

The water heater is fitted with sacrificial anodes to extend its life. They dissipate slowly and protect the cylinder. An authorised person should inspect and replace anodes as required, recommended every 5 years. Factory-fitted anodes are Magnesium based (suited for TDS < 600 mg/L). Aluminium based anodes are required for TDS > 600 mg/L.

Turning Off the Water Heating System

For short trips (a few nights), leave the system switched on. If switching off is necessary:

WARNING: DO NOT turn power off to the heat pump unit if snow or frost conditions are expected, as components may be damaged by freezing. If power must be turned off or power fails during freezing conditions, drain the water from the heat pump unit following the 'Draining and Filling' procedure.

Turning On the Water Heating System

Switch on the electric supply to the heat pump unit. Water heating will occur. It may take several hours for hot water to be available.

Draining and Filling

Draining or filling the system normally occurs during installation or servicing and must be carried out by an authorised person. Draining is necessary if power is shut off and freezing conditions are expected.

To drain the heat pump:

1. Turn off power to the heat pump.
2. Close the cold water mains supply stop cock.
3. Open a hot tap to relieve pressure.
4. Disconnect the hot outlet near the top of the storage cylinder.
5. Disconnect the cold inlet near the bottom of the storage cylinder.
6. The system will now drain completely.

Maintenance and Regular Care

Operate the easing gear of the PTR and ECV (if fitted) as described in 'Safety Devices'.

The overflow tray and drain underneath the storage cylinder should be periodically checked for blockages.

WARNING: DO NOT drill, screw, or fix any ancillary items to the outer case of the tank. Penetrating the outer skin may damage the heat exchanger. Rinnai's warranty will not cover resultant faults.

Insufficient or No Hot Water

No Water from the Tap

High Electricity Bills

Water Flow Fluctuations

Water Hammer

Heat Pump Ices Up

Heat Pump Error Indicator*

* If an error code is displayed, contact Rinnai Customer Care Immediately.

Heat Pump Specifications

*Sound Pressure Level @1.5m. Sound Levels on installations can be higher due to noise reflections from nearby surfaces and structures.

Dimensions (mm)

Clearances

Tank Clearances:

• Minimum 150 mm at side
• 100 mm Minimum at rear
• Minimum 300 mm at front

Heat Pump Clearances:

Allow 600mm on the fan discharge side and 100 mm clearance on the fan suction side for sufficient airflow. All measurements are minimums.

Connections

The Tank is supplied with duplicate connections on either side to allow the Heat Pump unit to be located on the Left (A) or Right (B) side.

System Schematic

Regulations and Occupation Health and Safety (OH&S)

WARNING: Installation and commissioning MUST be performed by authorised persons.

The heat pump MUST be installed in accordance with these instructions and all regulatory requirements, including those for manual lifting.

Applicable regulations include: AS/NZS 3500, AS/NZS 3000, Building Codes of Australia (BCA), and Local OH&S regulations.

This appliance is not suitable for use as a domestic spa pool or swimming pool heater.

Electric Heat pumps are heavy items. Persons installing heat pump systems MUST be aware of their responsibilities and be adequately trained and qualified.

Location

The electric heat pump can be installed externally or internally.

Place the unit as close as practicable to the most frequently used hot water outlet point to minimise delay. A flow and return system can be used for longer distances.

Avoid positioning near bedrooms or neighbours' bedrooms due to operational sound levels.

It is recommended that all components are installed at ground or floor level for easy service, repair, or replacement access. The heat pump MUST be installed in a vertically upright position and MUST be accessible without a ladder or scaffold. The unit MUST NOT be installed in roof spaces.

WARNING: Ensure the location complies with AS/NZS 60335.2.40 & AS/NZS 5149.

The air inlet and outlet of the heat pump module MUST be away from areas with strong wind and MUST have sufficient clearances as per 'Clearances' on page 14.

The heat pump MUST be connected to an independent AC 240V, 50Hz power supply with a Dedicated Safety Switch Circuit Breaker and Weatherproof Isolating Switch.

Ensure the PTR valve and access covers have sufficient clearances and are accessible for service. Rating plates MUST also be readable.

The heat pump MUST be installed free-standing on a level and stable base. The cylinder should be mounted on a concrete base (at least 50mm thick) or hardwood slats (at least 25mm thick). Where property damage can occur from water leakage, the storage cylinder MUST be installed with a safe tray (overflow tray) and drain (in accordance with AS 3500.4). Ensure the storage cylinder DOES NOT stand on wet surfaces.

Internal Installation Requirements:

• Minimum room volume of 75m³ per unit.
• Good Ventilation (i.e., minimum 500 L/s per unit).
• Away from any ignition sources or corrosive environments.

If installed internally, consider positioning to limit unit noise and reverberation.

Condensation, Drainage, Water Supply, Storage Temperature, Hot Water Delivery Temperature

Condensation: The surrounding air may be cooled by up to 4°C, forming condensate that needs to be plumbed to a suitable drain.

Drainage: Where property damage can occur from water leakage, a safe tray (overflow tray) and drain are required. Construction and installation must comply with local regulatory requirements and AS/NZS 3500.4.

Water Supply: This appliance is intended for permanent connection to the water mains. The maximum water pressure is listed on page 12; an approved pressure limiting valve may be required. A water filter MUST be fitted on the inlet to the tank. In scaling water areas, an expansion control valve (ECV) MUST be fitted on the cold water line after the non-return valve (mandatory in WA and SA). ECVs are recommended elsewhere to reduce hot water discharge from the PTR valve.

Storage Temperature: If the tank temperature is set below 60°C, the system will automatically override this setting once a week to heat the water to 60°C for disinfection, meeting regulatory requirements. This setting cannot be altered.

Hot Water Delivery Temperature: This appliance may deliver water at high temperature. Refer to the Plumbing Code of Australia (PCA), local requirements, and installation instructions. Temperature limitations for specific areas (e.g., childcare centres, schools, nursing homes) require a temperature limiting device, such as a thermostatic mixing or tempering valve.

Valves and Fittings

A 10 kW capacity, combined Pressure and Temperature Relief (PTR) valve is supplied with the system and is mandatory for all installations.

Installer to supply:

• A cold water expansion control valve (ECV).
• A stop cock, non-return valve, and line strainer (or combination valves).
• Cold water supply and hot water discharge pipework (MUST be insulated as specified in AS/NZS 3500.4).
• An approved pressure limiting valve (PLV) if mains pressure exceeds the specified limit.
• Tempering valve(s) or thermostatic mixing valve.

Transport and Handling

IMPORTANT: When moving the unit, it MUST be close to vertical at all times. When using a trolley, ensure it is not tilted more than 45° from the vertical. Non-compliance will void warranty and affect performance.

The tank MUST remain upright during transportation. Transporting the tank flat may damage internal components like the anode, compromising performance and longevity.

Positioning the Heat Pump

Conduct a safety audit (WMS or JSA) before arrival. Park vehicle close to installation site. Unload materials safely.

Install outdoors if internal requirements cannot be met. Consider noise impact on living areas; avoid positioning near bedrooms.

Adequate access MUST be available to the relief valve and anodes.

Position the unit on a level, stable surface according to plumbing and building regulations.

A properly drained overflow tray MUST be used where property damage could occur from water spillage (see AS/NZS 3500.4.2).

NOTE: DO NOT drain on to grass or garden beds. DO NOT commence a job where risks cannot be controlled.

Allow 200m³ of free space surrounding the unit for clear airflow. Ensure clearance requirements from the 'Dimensions' section (page 14) are met. Keep the area clear of debris.

Optimum installation location is on the warmest side of the house.

Piping Constraints

• Pipework must have no more than six bends in total between the tank and the heat pump.
• Piping Height - Cold Water Inlet (1): No more than 1 meter above the tank outlet.
• Right-Angle Loop (2): If used, must be within 1 meter in total height and in only one location.
• Overall Height Difference (3): Must not exceed 1 meter between the heat pump and the tank.
• Horizontal Distance (4): Must not exceed 5 meters between the tank and the heat pump.
• Base Requirement: Both heat pump and storage tank must be installed on level and stable bases.

Connect the PTR Valve

Connect the PTR valve to the uppermost fitting of the storage cylinder. The PTR pressure rating MUST be suited for the cylinder and adequate for the thermal loading (10 kW input rating). Use PTFE thread tape. Ensure the tape does not protrude past the thread end.

Connect the supplied PTR valve into the top socket marked “Relief Valve”, with the outlet pointing down. Tighten using spanner flats. PTR Valves are rated at 1000 kPa.

The drain line from this valve MUST run continuously downward and be left permanently open to atmosphere.

Plumbing Connections

Refer to the diagram on page 13 for detailed plumbing information.

An approved isolating valve, non-return valve, line strainer, and union MUST be fitted between the supply main and the tank. All fittings MUST be approved by the relevant installation Authority.

An ECV MUST be fitted in Western Australia and South Australia to the cold water supply to the storage cylinder to comply with local regulations. An ECV is recommended in other areas with scaling water to reduce hot water discharge from the PTR valve.

This water heater is designed for direct connection to water supply pressures no greater than specified on page 12. If mains pressure exceeds this, a pressure limiting (PLV) device (complying with AS1357) MUST be fitted.

Connect Cold / Hot Water Supply

Connect cold water supply, Pressure Limiting Valve (PLV), and/or Expansion Control Valve (ECV). Connect cold water supply to the storage tank. A stop cock, non-return valve, and line strainer MUST be fitted.

Connect pipework supplying hot water to the premises to the hot water outlet on the tank.

A temperature limiting device may be required (see 'Hot Water Delivery Temperature' on page 17).

It is recommended that all hot water lines are insulated with high temperature, UV resistant 13mm closed cell insulation.

Connect Condensate Drain Line

A condensation drain line is required to carry discharge clear of the water heater. It should not be connected to the PTR drain line.

Use the supplied drain hose to connect to the condensate outlet on the heat pump.

Independent 15mm copper pipes MUST be fitted to the PTR and ECV drain outlets. Each pipe MUST be open to atmosphere, run with a continual downward grade in a frost-free environment to a visible discharge point.

Drain lines MUST NOT exceed 9 meters in length. Valves or other restrictions MUST NOT be placed in the relief valve drain outlet line.

Electrical Tests and Connections

Electrical Tests:

DO NOT turn on power until the appliance is filled with water and a satisfactory insulation (Megger) test has been performed.

Conducting Insulation (Megger) Tests:

WARNING: This appliance contains electronic components. Insulation tests (500 Volts) MUST ONLY be conducted across the active terminal to earth and then across the neutral terminal to earth. Tests between active and neutral terminals WILL damage components.

Insulation test results between 100 kΩ and 660 kΩ are normal. Results less than 1 MΩ are permitted where the appliance is approved to a standard applicable to that class. The appliance complies with AS/NZS 3000 requirements.

Electrical Connections:

WARNING: Power supply to the heat pump module MUST NOT be activated until the system is filled with water.

Premises wiring MUST be capable of withstanding the appliance load (refer to specification table).

All electrical connections and wiring MUST be installed, maintained, and removed by authorised persons in accordance with AS/NZS 3000 and local regulations.

IMPORTANT: The Heat Pump is NOT equipped with a power cord and plug; it MUST be hard-wired to an isolating switch with a dedicated circuit. The supply terminals MUST be connected to an independent AC 240V 50Hz power supply with a safety switch. The isolator MUST effectively isolate all active supply conductors. A method for disconnection MUST be incorporated into the fixed wiring.

In Australia, a Residual Current Circuit Breaker (RCD) must be installed.

IMPORTANT: Disconnect all power prior to installation and commissioning. This appliance is for single-phase 240 Volts, AC mains electrical operation.

Wiring Diagram

Filling The System

1. Open a hot water tap at a sink.
2. Open the stop cock in the cold water main supply line. Allow the system to fill and air to bleed through the tap.
3. Turn off the hot tap when water flows freely without air bubbles or bursts.
4. If leaks are detected, repair them and repeat the filling process.
5. If no leaks are detected, water heating can commence.

Commissioning and Finishing the Installation

IMPORTANT: Confirm the following before commissioning:

• Piping and electrical wiring are correct, and the Earthing wire is installed properly.
• Pipe insulation is completed.
• Tank is filled.
• Supply Voltage complies with rated voltage.
• Air intake and discharge are not obstructed.

Turn on the heat pump unit and wait a few minutes for the system to start. Change operation mode or water temperature setting if required (retaining default settings is recommended).

After testing, demonstrate functions to the householder. Explain the need to drain the heat pump if freezing conditions are likely or if power may be shut off for an extended time. Explain the importance of maintenance and leave the manual with the householder.

Operation of Controller

When the heat pump turns on, the control system checks operating parameters, sensors, and pressure switches. If conditions are suitable and sufficient ambient energy is available, the fan and compressor will turn on. There is a 3-minute delay before the fan and compressor start.

The unit is self-regulating. The first-time operation includes an initial heat-up cycle, which may take several hours depending on ambient conditions.

If the unit does not start and the controller shows no LED lights, an electrician should test power availability.

Controller Layout and Keys

Major functions are controlled by the Control Panel on the right of the unit.

Key Primary Functions:

Controller Operation Flow

Controller Functions and Operation

1. Turn ON/OFF the heat pump: On first power-on, display shows countdown, then main interface. Press 'On/Off' to turn on. Wait for heating. If screen locked, press 'OK' for 3 seconds to unlock. Turning off shows 'OFF' on the top left. Unit enters previous mode or factory default.
2. Unlock the screen: Screen locks automatically after 60 seconds of no operation. Press any key to light screen, press 'OK' for 3 seconds to unlock.

Operation Mode Selection

Press 'Function' key to enter mode selection: ECO → STND → VACA → ELEC → HYBD. Use 'Up'/'Down' to select and 'OK' to confirm. Default mode is ECO.

STANDARD Mode: Water heating by compression system. Suitable for commercial applications.

ECO Mode: Default mode. Water heating by compression system.

HYBRID Mode: Compression system heats water below 60°C. Resistive heating element used above 60°C.

ELECTRIC Mode: Water heating by resistive heating element.

VACATION Mode: Water heating by compression system. For periods with no need for hot water.

Water Temperature Setting

Press 'Up' or 'Down' keys to increase/decrease temperature by 1°C. It is recommended not to alter the factory default setting.

Clock Query & Setting

Press 'Function' key for 3 seconds, then 'Up'/'Down' to select 'Clock query', and 'OK' to enter. Use 'Up'/'Down' to cycle values and 'Function' to select year, month, day, hour, minute, second. Press 'OK' to save.

Timer Setting

Press 'Function' key for 3 seconds, then 'Up'/'Down' to select 'Timing set', and 'OK' to enter. Factory default is disabled. When enabled, 'Start time' and 'Stop time' must be set.

Operation State Query

Press 'Function' key for 3 seconds, then 'Up'/'Down' to select 'State query', and 'OK' to enter. Select 'System state query' to view status.

Manual Defrost

Press 'Function' key for 3 seconds, then 'Up'/'Down' to select 'Manual dfrst', and 'OK' to activate manual defrost operation (if conditions are satisfied).

Manual Disinfection

Press 'Function' key for 3 seconds, then 'Up'/'Down' to select 'Manual disinf', and 'OK' to activate manual disinfection operation.

History Error Query

Press 'Function' key for 3 seconds, then 'Up'/'Down' to select 'History err', and 'OK' to query historical errors.

1. Solar Photovoltaic System

A solar PV signal can be integrated via the dry contact input 'PV'. When a 'closed' signal is received for 30 seconds, the restart differential temporarily changes to 2°C for at least 10 minutes to utilise on-site generated electricity for more hot water.

2. Off-peak Electricity

Off-peak tariff signal can be integrated via the dry contact input 'OP'. The unit will only operate when receiving a 'closed' signal. This allows the heat pump to utilise off-peak electricity.

IMPORTANT: The unit cannot be connected to OFF PEAK meters. This will cause the system to be OFF, stopping the disinfection timer and potentially leading to legionella risk if water temperature drops.

6. Control the Heat Pump with the App

The main controls for the App are laid out as follows:

7. Set Timer from the App

The Schedule interface allows setting timers for turning the unit On/Off.

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