Westinghouse Residential Electric Water Heaters
Use and Care Manual
Table of Contents
Part 1 - General Safety Information
⚠️ DANGER: Indicates an imminently hazardous situation which, if not avoided, will result in serious personal injury or death.
⚠️ WARNING: Indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if not avoided, could result in personal injury or death.
⚠️ CAUTION: Indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if not avoided, may result in moderate or minor personal injury.
⚠️ CAUTION (without symbol): Indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if not avoided, may result in property damage.
ℹ️ NOTICE: Used to address practices not related to personal injury.
Foreword
This manual is intended for use with other provided literature. It is important to review this manual, all other system documents, and publications like the Code for the Installation of Heat Producing Appliances before starting any work.
Installation must comply with regulations from the Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ), local codes, and utility companies.
Installer Note: This water heater must be installed by qualified and licensed personnel, following local codes and utility requirements.
For Your Records: Write down Model # and Serial # from the rating label.
Important Safety Instructions
When using electrical appliances, follow basic safety precautions:
- Read all instructions before using.
- Ground the water heater to a properly grounded outlet.
- Install only according to provided instructions.
- Use only for intended purpose.
- Do not operate if damaged or dropped.
- Service only by qualified personnel.
SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS
A. When Servicing the Water Heating System
WARNING: Disconnect electrical power before servicing to avoid shock, injury, or death.
Allow equipment to cool before servicing.
B. Heater Water
Do not use petroleum-based cleaning or sealing compounds. Do not use "homemade cures" or "patent medicines".
C. Freeze Protection
Consider location to avoid freeze damage. Never use toxic chemicals like automotive antifreeze.
D. Water Temperature Adjustment
If setting temperature above 120°F, use an ASSE 1017 rated mixing valve to prevent scalding.
WARNING: Households with children, disabled, or elderly persons may require a 120°F or lower setting to prevent severe injury or death from scalding.
| Temperature | Time to Cause Scald |
|---|---|
| 120°F | More than 5 minutes |
| 125°F | 1 1/2 to 2 minutes |
| 130°F | About 30 seconds |
| 135°F | About 10 seconds |
| 140°F | Less than 5 seconds |
| 145°F | Less than 3 seconds |
| 150°F | About 1 1/2 seconds |
| 155°F | About 1 second |
Part 2 - Prepare the Water Heater
A. What's in the Box
Components include: Drain Valve, Temperature and Pressure Relief Valve, Insulation, Cover with Screws, Hot Water Outlet, Dip Tube, Use and Care Manual and Warranty.
B. Locating the Water Heater
CAUTION: Locate where leaks will not cause damage. Install near a floor drain or in a drain pan. Leakage damages are not covered by warranty.
WARNING: Indoor use only. Do not install outdoors.
1. Installation Area (Mechanical Room) Operating Conditions
- Ambient temperatures: 32°F to 104°F (0°C to 40°C).
- Avoid high humidity.
- Ensure ventilation openings are not closed.
Note: For zero clearance installations, note model and serial numbers.
WARNING: Incorrect operating conditions can damage the system and risk safety. Ensure location adheres to manual instructions.
Install upright in the vertical position only.
2. Location Choice
Centralize to piping and electrical systems. Locate away from freezing temperatures. Insulate all piping. Ensure drain, controls, and inlets/outlets are accessible.
Note: Minimize distance to fixtures for energy efficiency and reduce heat loss.
Note: California requires bracing for earthquakes. Contact local utilities or visit http://www.dsa.dgs.ca.gov.
Note: For units over 52 gallons, consult local building jurisdiction for bracing.
3. Area Check
Remove combustible materials, gasoline, and flammable liquids.
Part 3 - Piping
A. Plumbing
All plumbing must comply with federal, local, and state codes. Failure to install properly voids warranty. Use thread tape and pipe sealing compound. Use unions for easy servicing.
CAUTION: Do not use dielectric unions or galvanized steel fittings. Use copper, brass, or stainless steel fittings. Use Teflon thread sealant.
- Install shut-off or check valve on inlet. Connect cold water supply.
- Connect hot water line to "HOT" connection.
- Install T&P Valve in provided opening.
- Install drain valve in bottom opening.
CAUTION: Do not apply heat to connections. Sweat tubing to adapter before fitting to heater connections.
B. Thermal Expansion
In a closed water system, heating water causes expansion and pressure increase. An expansion tank is required to offset this. Install between backflow preventer and cold water inlet. Size for total system volume.
C. Condensation
Condensation may form initially or with heavy, cold water draws. This is normal and should disappear. If it continues, check for leaks.
D. Insulation Blankets
WARNING: Follow manufacturer instructions for insulation kits. Do not cover labels, electrical junction box, or access panels. Inspect frequently.
E. Temperature and Pressure Relief Valve
Install a combination T&P valve meeting ANSI Z21.22B / CSA 4.4-M99 standards. Maximum set pressure must not exceed the water heater's working pressure. Plumb discharge line at least 6" above the floor, ensuring it does not contact live electrical parts.
F. Scalding
WARNING: Risk of scald injury increases with temperature. Use a mixing valve for disabled, elderly, or children. Set temperature as low as possible. Feel water before use.
DANGER: Water over 125°F can cause severe burns or death.
Install a mixing valve to reduce point-of-use temperatures.
WARNING: Failure to install temperature limiting/mixing valves and follow instructions can result in injury or death.
WARNING: This water heater can deliver scalding water. Be careful.
G. Filling the Heater
- Ensure drain valve is closed.
- Open cold water shut-off valve.
- Open hot water faucets to vent air.
- Allow heater to fill completely.
- Verify elements and check for leaks.
CAUTION: Tank must be full before turning on power. Dry-firing damages elements and is not covered by warranty.
H. Applications
Diagrams show piping concepts. Follow piping notes regarding pipe size, expansion tanks, circulators, drains, and mixing valves.
Part 4 - Wiring
CAUTION: Tank must be full before power is on. Dry-firing damages elements.
Unit is factory wired to a junction box for field wiring. Check Table 3 for input/amperage requirements. Consult local power company regarding electrical service adequacy.
All wiring must conform to local and National Electric Code. Use a qualified electrician. Grounding can be via approved conduit or a provided green ground wire.
WARNING: Ensure proper grounding. Failure to do so can result in property damage, injury, or death.
Part 5 - Installation Checklist
| Item | Yes | No |
|---|---|---|
| Water Heater Location: Close to demand | ||
| Indoors and protected from freezing | ||
| Area free of flammable vapors | ||
| Protected from water damage/thermal expansion | ||
| Sufficient room to service | ||
| Relief Valve: Properly installed, discharge line to drain | ||
| Discharge line protected from freezing | ||
| Wiring: Power supply voltage correct | ||
| Branch circuit wire/fusing correct size | ||
| Electrical connections tight and grounded | ||
| Water Supply: Heater completely filled | ||
| Air purged from heater/piping | ||
| Water connections tight and leak-free |
Part 6 - Operation
CAUTION: Tank must be full before power is on. Dry-firing damages elements.
Turn on power after water and electrical connections are made and the tank is filled.
A. Combination Thermostat and High Limit Control (ECO)
The heater has a Thermostat-High Limit Control (ECO). If water becomes excessively high, the ECO breaks the circuit. It must be manually reset, but the cause of the over-temperature condition must be corrected first.
WARNING: Investigate and correct over-temperature conditions before resetting the ECO. Failure to do so can result in damage, injury, or death.
B. Thermostat Adjustment and ECO Reset
DANGER: Turn off power before adjusting thermostats or resetting ECO. Failure to do so results in damage, injury, or death.
To adjust/reset:
- Turn off power.
- Remove access cover.
- Remove insulation to expose thermostat.
- Reset ECO by pushing red button. Adjust temperature by turning white knob (clockwise for hotter, counterclockwise for cooler).
- Replace insulation.
- Reattach access cover.
- Restore power.
- Verify operation and measure water temperature.
WARNING: Risk of scald injury increases with temperature. Failure to replace insulation/cover can cause damage or injury.
C. Heating Element Replacement Procedure
WARNING: Use identical voltage, wattage, and construction for replacement elements. Sheath must be incoloy, hex plug stainless steel.
DANGER: Turn off power before replacing elements. Failure to do so results in shock, damage, injury, or death.
- Turn off power. Remove wires from element.
- Run hot water until cold, then shut off faucet. Shut off water supply or isolate heater. Drain water from system/heater.
- WARNING: Completely drain heater before element replacement to avoid leaks and damage. Drained water may be scalding.
- CAUTION: Use only Westinghouse heating elements. Using others voids warranty.
- Remove element with a 1 1/2" socket wrench.
- Inspect element and prepare gasket/washer.
- Apply lubricant/sealant to gasket/washer and element.
- Screw element clockwise into tank.
- Open cold water inlet. Refill tank. Open hot water faucet to bleed air.
- Check for leaks. Connect wires.
- Turn power back on.
CAUTION: Failure to refill tank before restoring power damages elements.
Part 7 - Maintenance
Considerations: Disconnect power before maintenance. Allow heater to cool.
Annual inspection by a qualified service technician is recommended. Owner may perform routine maintenance.
Monthly (Every two weeks in hard water locations)
Drain a few quarts to flush sediment and lengthen service life. Turn off power during flushing.
CAUTION: Failure to shut off power during draining can damage elements.
WARNING: Drained water may be scalding. Wear protective gear. Turn off power and run hot water until cool before draining.
To flush: Attach hose to drain valve. Close cold water supply. Open drain valve and hot water faucet to vent air. Flush until water runs clear. Close drain valve, reopen supply. Close hot water faucets after air is bled. Ensure tank is full before restoring power.
Periodically (At least twice a year)
Check for leaks around plumbing and heating elements. Contact a service contractor for repairs. Check area for flammable materials.
Vacation (Extended shut-off periods)
For mild weather, shut off power. For cold weather, shut off power, close supply valve, drain heater to a safe location.
WARNING: Drained water may be scalding. Wear protective gear. Turn off power and run hot water until cool before draining.
Part 8 - Troubleshooting
| Problem | Reason | Remedy |
|---|---|---|
| No Hot Water | Manual disconnect off | Turn switch on |
| Blown fuse/breaker, shorted wiring, overload, grounded element/thermostat | Replace fuse/breaker, repair wiring, provide adequate circuit, replace element/thermostat | |
| Manual Reset High Limit (ECO) open | Refer to Part 6 | |
| Defective thermostat/ECO, loose wires | Replace thermostat, lower setting, tighten wires | |
| Not Enough Hot Water | Improper wiring | Check/rewire per detail |
| Heater undersized | Reduce usage rate | |
| Defective element(s) | Check amperage, replace element if low | |
| Miswired thermostat (one element only) | Check wiring or replace thermostat | |
| Water Too Hot or Not Hot Enough | Thermostat setting incorrect | Change setting |
| Thermostat out of calibration | Replace thermostat | |
| Thermostat/insulation not in place | Inspect and replace | |
| Thermostat not seated tightly | Ensure retaining springs/screws hold tightly | |
| T&P Valve Discharges | Improperly seated valve | Open/close handle to reseat |
| Thermal expansion | Install expansion tank | |
| Damaged/defective valve | Replace relief valve. Do not plug. | |
| Water Leaks | Loose connections | Tighten fittings |
| Damaged seal ring/washer | Replace seal rings | |
| Gasket around element | Inspect and replace gasket | |
| Hot Water Odor | High sulfate/mineral content or bacteria | Drain/flush heater. Consult water treatment specialist. |
| Noisy Operation | Hard water scale on elements | Remove and clean |
WARNING: Risk of scald injury increases with temperature. Use mixing valve and caution. Disconnect power before service.
CAUTION: Open T&P valve or hot water tap to prevent vacuum when draining.
Limited Warranty
Westinghouse warrants residential stainless steel electric water heaters against defects in materials and workmanship. Warranties commence on the date of installation and are non-transferable.
Warranty Periods
| Category | Extended Residential Use Warranty (Parts/Tank) | Standard Residential Use Warranty (Parts/Tank) | Any Other Application (Parts/Tank) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Residential, single family, temp ≤ 140°F (Registered) | 6 Years / Lifetime | 1 Year / 10 Years | N/A |
| Residential, single family, temp ≤ 140°F (Not Registered) | N/A | 1 Year / 10 Years | N/A |
| Other applications (rental, leasing) | N/A | N/A | 1 Year / 10 Years |
Coverage
A. First Year: Westinghouse will repair or replace defective components.
B. Leakage: If leakage occurs within warranty periods due to defects, Westinghouse will replace the unit.
C. Replacement Unit Leakage: Westinghouse may refund the original wholesale price.
D. Feature Upgrades: Owner may be charged for differences if new features are required by regulations.
E. Proof of Purchase: Without receipt/registration, warranty starts from manufacture date.
F. Installation: Warranty applies only to units installed by qualified professionals per instructions.
G. Remedies: Repair, replacement, or refund are exclusive remedies.
Owner Responsibilities
- Install vacuum relief and T&P valves.
- Operate within pressure limits.
- Keep heater free of scale.
- Use open system or closed system with expansion tank.
- Prevent damage from leaks.
Warranty Exclusions
Does not cover: unauthorized dealers, installation by unqualified personnel, training service trips, improper location, non-Westinghouse components, unauthorized repairs/alterations, failure to follow codes/practices, improper installation, operation outside limits, modified parts, improper sizing, abuse, accident, acts of God, corrosive atmosphere, lime deposits, water chemistry issues (pH, hardness, chlorides, TDS), dielectric unions, noise/odor/discoloration, pressure exceeding rating, moved units, removed rating labels, cosmetic reasons, installation outside US/Canada.
Online Extended Limited Warranty Registration
Register at http://www.westinghousewaterheating.com/warranty within 90 days of installation. Requires owner info, installation details, and proof of purchase.
Procedures for Warranty Service Requests
Contact retailer or installer promptly with proof of purchase, model/serial numbers, and problem description. Warranty coverage is subject to validation.
Contact: 1(774) 417-6000 for warranty questions.
Service, Labor, and Shipping Costs
This warranty does not cover shipping charges, delivery expenses, or labor costs beyond specified coverage.
Limitations of Warranties and Remedies
Warranties are exclusive and in lieu of all others. Remedies are limited to repair, replacement, or refund. Consequential damages are excluded.
No Other Warranties
Westinghouse provides specific legal rights. Rights may vary by state. Westinghouse does not authorize others to assume obligations.
Customer Installation Record Form
Complete this form for warranty claims. Installer and customer should sign.
Fields: Customer's Name, Date of Installation, Installation Address, Product Name / Serial Number(s), Comments, Installer's Code / Name, Installer's Phone Number, Signed by Installer, Signed by Customer, Installation Notes.
IMPORTANT: Customer should sign only after reviewing installation, safety, and operation. Contact installer for any system problems.
