GE APPLIANCES GE02P08BAR Electric Residential Water Heater Owner’s Manual

GE APPLIANCES GE02P08BAR Electric Residential Water Heater

WARNING
For safety, the information must be followed to minimize the risk of fire or explosion, electric shock, or to prevent property damage, personal injury, or loss of life. Be sure to read and understand the entire Owner’s Manual before attempting to install or operate this water heater. It may save you time and cost. Pay particular attention to the Safety Instructions. Failure to follow these warnings could result in serious bodily injury or death. Should you have problems understanding the instructions in this manual, or have any questions, STOP and get help from a qualified service technician or the local electric utility.

Risk of Fire
DO NOT store or use gasoline or other flammable vapors and liquids in the vicinity of this  any other appliance. Keep rags and other combustibles away. If the water heater has been subjected to flood, fire, or physical damage, turn off power and water to the water heater. Do not operate the water heater again until it has been thoroughly checked by qualified service personnel.

Safety Precautions
Do turn off power to water heater if it has been subjected to overheating, fire, flood or physical damage. Do Not turn on water heater unless it is filled with water. C. Do Not turn on water heater if cold water supply shut off valve is closed.

NOTE
Flammable vapors may be drawn by air currents from surrounding areas to the water heater if there is any difficulty in understanding or following the Operating Instructions or the Care and Cleaning section, It is recommended that a qualitied person or serviceman perform the work.

CAUTION

Risk of Fire
Hydrogen gas can be produced in a hot water system served by this water heater that has not been used for a long period of time generally two weeks or more. HYDROGEN GAS IS EXTREMELY FLAMMABLE!! To dissipate such gas and to reduce risk of injury, it is recommended that the hot water faucet be opened for several minutes at the kitchen sink before using any electrical appliance connected to the hot water system. if hydrogen is present, there will be an unusual sound such as air escaping through the pipe as the water begins to flow. Do not smoke or use an open flame near the faucet at the time it is open.

FOR INSTALLATIONS IN THE STATE OF CALIFORNIA
California Law requires that residential water heaters must be braced, anchored or strapped to resist falling or horizontal displacement due to earthquake motions. For residential water heaters up to 52 gallon (236.4 L) capacity, a brochure with generic earthquake bracing instructions can be obtained from: Office of the State Architect, 400 P Street, Sacramento, CA 95814 or you may call 916.324.5315 or ask a water heater dealer. Applicable local codes shall always govern installation. For residential water heaters of a capacity greater than 52 gallons (236.4 L) consult the local building jurisdiction for acceptable bracing procedures.

WATER TEMPERATURE ADJUSTMENT

Safety, energy conservation, and hot water capacity are factors to be considered when selecting the water temperature setting of the water heater.. Water temperatures above 125°F can cause severe burns or death from scalding. Be sure to read and follow the warnings outlined on the label pictured to the left. This label is also located on the water heater near the top of the tank.

DANGER
There is a Hot Water SCALD Potential if the  water temperature thermostat is set too high. Households with small children, disabled or elderly persons may require a 120F49°c) or lower thermostat setting to prevent contact with HOT water. This water heater is equipped with an adjustable thermostat that will automatically control water temperature. It can be adjusted to a maximum temperature of 150°F (60°C). The recommended set point is 125°F (52°C) and is clearly marked on the temperature adjustment dial.

Water Temperature Setting

The temperature of the water in the water heater can be regulated by setting the temperature dial of the adjustable surface mounted thermostat(s) located behind the jacket access panels. The illustration shows the temperature adjustment dial used for setting the water temperature.

DANGER
Hotter water increases the Potential for Hot Water SCALDS.

SAFETY CONTROLS

The water heater is equipped with a combination thermostat and high limit Energy-Cut-Off control (ECO) that is located above the heating element in contact with the tank surface. If for any reason the water temperature becomes excessively high, the high limit control (ECO) breaks the power circuit to the heating element. Once the control opens, it must be reset manually. Resetting of the high limit control should be done by a qualified service technician.

CAUTION
The cause of the high temperature condition must be investigated by a qualified service technician and corrective action must be taken before placing the water heater in service again.

Operating Instructions

Water Heater Capacity and Increasing Temperature Setpoint

The water heater temperature setting strongly impacts he amount of usable hot water available for showers and baths. Safety regulations require a factory setting no greater than 125F (52″C) for all new water heaters. Therefore if your old water heater was set to a hotter temperature than your new water heater with a factory set setpoint, the new water heater may seem to provide lower capacity than your old water heater. This can be corrected by increasing the temperature setpoint. If more hot water capacity is desired, increasing the temperature from 125°F to 135°F (52°C to 57°C) will enable the same tank of hot water to last about 25% longer because less hot water is mixed in at the shower or faucet. Increasing the water temperature setpoint may improve the cleaning performance of dishwashers and washing machines. The user can adjust the temperature setting to meet their needs. Always read and understand the safety instructions contained in the owner’s manual before adjusting the temperature setpoint.

If adjustment is necessary

1. Locate the front panel and temperature adjustment knob on the water heater.
2. This temperature adjustment dial is variable increase and decrease with a minimum setpoint of 68°F (20°C) and a maximum setpoint of 150°F (60°C).
3. The recommended starting setpoint is identified on the dial as 125°F (52C).
4. The red indicator at the center of the display will illuminate when the water is heating.
5. When the water in the tank is at the desired temperature, the red indicator will NOT be illuminated.

Mixing  Valves

Mixing valves for reducing point-of-use water temperature by mixing hot and cold water in branch water lines are commercially available. Contact a licensed plumber or the local plumbing authority for further information.

Extended Shutdown Periods

If the water heater is to remain idle for an extended period of time, the pOwer and water to the appliance should be turned off and the water heater drained to conserve energy and prevent buildup of danger Ous hydrogen gas. This unit has no power button, power can only be shut off at the circuit breaker or disconnect switch. The water heater and piping should be drained if they might be subjected to freezing temperatures. After a long shutdown period, the water heater’s operation and controls should be checked by qualified service personnel. Make certain the water heater is completely frilled again before placing it in operation.

Care and Cleaning

Exterior Surfaces

Hand wash with damp cloth, using only warm water. Wipe dry using a dry, clean cloth.

Routine Preventive Maintenance

DANGER

Risk of Scald
Before manually operating the relief valve, make certain no one will be exposed to the danger of coming in contact with the hot water released by the valve. The water may be hot enough to create a scald hazard. The water should be released into a suitable drain to prevent injury or property damage.

NOTE
If the temperature and pressure-relief valve on the hot water heater discharges periodically, this may be due to thermal expansion in a closed water system. Contact the water supplier or your plumbing contractor on how to correct this. Do not plug the relief valve outlet. Properly maintained, your water heater will provide years of dependable trouble-free service. It is suggested that the following annual preventive maintenance program be established.

• Inspect Temperature & Pressure Relief Valve.
• Drain and Flush the water heater tank.
• Inspect all water connection locations.

Temperature and Pressure Relief Valve

Once a year, it is recommended to lift and release the lever handle on the temperature and pressure-relief valve, located on the front-right side of the water heater, to make certain the valve operates freely. Allow several gallons to flush through the discharge line to an open drain. Most electrical appliances, even when new, make some sound when in operation. If the hissing or singing sound level increases excessively, the electric heating element may require cleaning. Contact a qualified installer or plumber for inspection.

Draining and Flushing Water Heater

CAUTION
Risk of Shock
Shut off power to the water heater before draining water.

DANGER

Risk of Scald
Before manually operating the relief valve, make certain no one will be exposed to the hot water released by the valve. The water drained from the tank may be hot enough to present a scald hazard and should be directed to a suitable drain to prevent injury or damage. A water heater’s tank can act as a setting basin for solids suspended in the water. It is therefore not uncommon for hard water deposits to accumulate in the bottom of the tank. To clean the tank of these deposits is recommended to drain and flush the water heater tank once a year. To drain the water heater, follow these steps

1. Tum off power to the unit. The electric heating elements will become damaged if operated without water.
2. Open a hot water faucet to let hot water run out. Allow water to flow until water is no longer hot.
3. Turn off the cold water supply.
4. Disconnect the water heater from both hot and cold water connections.
5. Siphon out the remaining water if possible.
6. Remove the water heater from the installed location.
7. Tilt the water heater to drain remaining water out of the tank and flush out any sediment in the tank.

Installation Instructions

The location chosen for the water heater must take into consideration the following

LOCAL INSTALLATION REGULATIONS

This water heater must be installed in accordance with these instructions, local codes, utility codes, utility company requirements or, in the absence of local codes, the latest edition of the National Electrical Code. It is available from some local libraries or can be purchased from the National Fire Prevention Association, Battery march park, Quincy, MA 02169 as booklet ANS/NFPA 70.

POWER REQUIREMENTS

Check the markings on the rating plate of the water heater to be certain the power supply corresponds to the water heater requirements.

LOCATION
The water heater and water lines should be protected from freezing temperatures and high-corrosive atmospheres. Do not install the water heater in outdoor, unprotected areas. Locate the water heater in a clean dry area as near as practical to the area of greatest heated water demand. Long uninsulated hot water lines can waste energy and water. Unit must be installed in a level location. If required, add shims under base of unit to level for operation.

NOTE
This unit is designed for any common indoor installation. Servicing the water heater requires proper installation such that front panels can be removed to permit inspection and servicing. Reference installation instructions found in this manual. Moving the water heater or other appliances to provide service to the water heater is not covered under warranty.

CAUTION

Risk of Property Damage
The water heater should not be located in an area where leakage of the tank or connections will result in damage to the area adjacent to it or to lower floors of the structure. Where such areas cannot be avoided, it is recommended that a suitable catch pan, adequately drained, be installed under the water heater.

Required clearances

There must be sufficient clearance between any object and the top, rear and sides of the water heater in the event service is needed. The controls and drain at front of unit must have clear access for operation and service. Installations that require minimal clearance on the sides or rear of the water heater for earthquake straps are also acceptable. In these cases, additional clearance should be provided on the opposite side of the unit to allow for service access.

CATCH PAN INSTALLATION

NOTE
Auxiliary catch pan MUST conform to local codes. Catch Pan Kits are available from the store where the water heater was purchased, a builder store or any water heater distributor. The catch pan should be 2 (5.1 cm) minimum larger than the Water Heater base diameter. To prevent corrosion and improve Drain Valve access it is recommended that the water heater be placed on spacers inside the catch pan.

THERMAL EXPANSION

If a check valve is present on the inlet water line, it will create a closed system. Heating water in a closed system creates an increase in pressure within the water system because the pressure is not able to dissipate in the main supply line. Referred to as thermal expansion, the rapid pressure increase can cause the relief valve to operate (releasing water) during each heating cycle, potentially causing premature failure to the valve or even the water heater. The suggested method of controlling thermal expansion is to install an expansion tank in the cold water line between the water heater and the check valve as shown in the following illustrations. Contact your installing contractor, water supplier, or plumbing inspector for additional information.

Component Installation

Locate the temperature and pressure relief valve in the packaging Refer to illustrations below for installing each component to the water heater. After completing installation of all components, make sure to check all connection points for water leaks and correct if required.

Tools needed

• Pipe wrench
• Adjustable wrench
• Pipe Joint Compound or Pipe Thread Sealant Tape.

Optional Wall Mounting

This water heater can be mounted on a wall or can sit directly on the floor. Only install in the vertical position with inlet and outlet pipes pointed upward. When selecting an installation location, choose a location that allows easy access for maintenance. For wall mounting condition, ensure the mounting surface is solid and secure. Screws should be secured into wall studs when possible. If stud mounting cannot be achieved, use provided screw anchors to ensure secure mounting of the water heater

Tools needed

• Phillips head screwdriver
• Drill Pencil
• Tape Measure Level

Mounting Instructions

Locate mounting slots on rear case of water heater. Locate the metal mounting bracket and fasteners from the packaging. If screw locations are in wall stud, drive mounting screws directly into stud through the wall bracket securing it to the wall. if screw locations are not in stud, prepare hole with anchor and then drive screw into wall anchor. Hang water heater on the bracket and pull down to ensure the bracket is fully seated in the mounting slots of the water heater.

WATER SUPPLY CONNECTIONS

The HOT and COLD water connections are clearly marked and are 1/2 NPT on all models. Remove and discard red and blue caps that have been placed on the water connections for shipping. When connecting to the inlet/outlet ports, the use of 1/2 female NPT tapered thread fittings with use of thread sealant is recommended. The installation of unions is recommended on the hot and cold water connections so that the water heater may be easily disconnected for servicing if necessary.

NOTE
Install a shut-off valve in the cold water line near the water heater. This will enable cashier service or maintenance of the unit later.

IMPORTANT
Do not apply heat to the HOT or COLD water connections. If sweat connections are used, sweat tubing to adapter before fitting the adapter to the cold water connections on heater. Any heat applied to the hot or cold water connection will permanently damage the internal plastic lining in these ports. Install a vacuum relief valve and/lor anti-siphon device when required by local jurisdictions. Typical installation can be found in the diagram below.

RELIEF VALVE

WARNING
Risk of Unit Damage
The pressure rating of the relief valve must not exceed 150 PSI 1.03 MPa the maximum working pressure of the water heater as marked on the rating plate. A new combination temperature and pressure-relief valve, complying with the Standard for Relief Valves and Automatic Gas Shut Off Devices for Hot Water Supply Systems, ANSI Z21.22, is supplied and must remain installed in the opening provided and marked for this purpose on the water heater. No valve of any type should be installed between the relief valve and the tank. Local codes shll govern the installation of relief valves. The BTUH rating of the relief valve must not be less than the input rating of the water heater as indicated on the rating label located on the front of the heater (1 watt-3.412 BTUH). Connect the outlet of the relief valve to a suitable open drain so that the discharge water cannot contact live electrical parts or persons and to eliminate potential water damage. Piping used should be of a type approved for hot water distribution. The dis charge line must be no smaller than the outlet of the valve and must pitch downward from the valve to allow complete drainage (by gravity) of the relief valve and discharge line. The end of the discharge line should not be threaded or concealed and should be protected from freezing. No valve of any type, restriction or reducer coupling should be installed in the discharge line.

CAUTION
To reduce the risk of excessive pressures and temperatures in this water heater, install temperature and pressure protective equipment required by local codes and no less than a combination temperature and pressure relief valve certified by a nationally recognized testing laboratory that maintains periodic inspection of production of listed equipment or materials, as meeting the requirements for Relief Valves and Automatic Gas Shutoff Devices for Hot Water Supply Systems, ANSI Z21.22. This valve must be marked with a maximum set pressure not to exceed the marked maximum working pressure of the water heater. Install the valve into an opening provided and marked for this purpose in the water heater, and orient it or provide tubing so that any discharge from the valve exits only within 6 inches above, or at any distance below, the structural floor, and does not contact any live electrical part. The discharge opening must not be blocked or reduced in size under any circumstances.

TO FILL THE WATER HEATER

WARNING
Risk of Unit Damage
The tank must be full of water before heater is turned on. The water heater warranty does not cover damage or failure resulting from operation with an empty or partially empty tank. Make certain the drain valve is completely closed. Open the shut-off valve in the cold water supply line. Open each hot water faucet slowly to allow the air to vent from the water heater and piping. A steady flow of water from the hot water faucet(s) indicates a full water heater. Condensation can form on the tank and fittings when it is first filled with water. Condensation may also occur with a heavy water draw and very cold inlet water temperature. This condition is not unusual and will disappear once water is heated. If condition persists, examine fittings for potential leaks and repair, as required.

NOTICE
Do not  wire electrical connections. 120VAC must be applied to the water heater.

ELECTRICAL CONNECTIONSS

Model GEO2P08BAR water heater is equipped with a factory installed power cord for electrical connection. Model GEO6P08BAR water heater is equipped with a junction box for hard wiring and supplied with an optional power cord connection.

NOTE
The voltage requirements and wattage load for the water heater are specified on the rating label on the side of the water heater All wiring must conform to local codes or latest edition of National Electrical Code ANSI/NFPA 70.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

When using electrical appliances, basic safety precautions to reduce the risk of fire, electric shock, or injurie to persons should be followed, including. Install or locate this water heater only .Use this water heater only for its intended us. Do not use an extension cord set with this w heater, contact a qualified electrician to have. As with any appliance, close supervision. Do not operate this water heater if it has a di been damaged or dropped. This water heater should be serviced only by service facility for examination, repair. Do not use surge protectors or multi outlet.

CAUTION

A damaged power supply cord must not repaired. ELECTRICAL CONNECTIONS

A separate branch circuit with copper conductors, overcurrent protective device and suitable disconnecting means must be provided by a qualified electrician. All wiring must conform to local codes or latest edition of National Electrical Code ANSI/NFPA 70. The water heater is completely wired to the junction box at the top of the water heater. An opening for 1/2 electrical fitting is provided for field wiring connections. The voltage requirements and wattage load for the water heater are specified on the rating label on the front of heater.

The branch circuit wiring should include

Metallic conduit or metallic sheathed cable approved for use as a grounding conductor and installed with fittings approved for the purpose. Nonmetallic sheathed cable, metallic conduit or metallic sheathed cable not approved for use as a ground conductor shall include a separate conductor for grounding. It should be attached to the ground terminals of the water heater and the electrical distribution box. Factory provided power cord included in the packaging with this water heater. To connect power to the water heater. Turn the power off at circuit breaker. Remove the screw/screws holding the junction box top cover. Route the electrical wiring through provided strain relief and opening in the junction box cover. Install Line to Line, Neutral to Neutral and Ground to Ground, per illustration. Reconnect all screws attaching the junction box covers.

To connect power to the water heater

1. Turn the power off at circuit breaker.
2. Remove the screw/screws holding the junction box top cover.
3. Route the electrical wiring through provided strain relief and opening in the junction box cover.
4. Install Line to Line, Neutral to Neutral and Ground to Ground.
5. Reconnect all screws attaching the junction box covers.

Water Heater Junction Box

Model: GE06P08BAR

WARNING

Risk of fire or electrical shock
Ensure both junction box covers and ground screws are securely fastened for proper grounding.  Proper ground connection is essential. The presence of water in the piping and water heater does not provide sufficient conduction for a ground. Nonmetallic piping, dielectric unions, flexible connectors, etc can cause the water heater to be electrically isolated. Do not disconnect factory ground.

NOTE
Install electric connections according to local codes or latest edition of National Electrical Code ANSIINFPA 70. The manufacturer s warranty does not cover any damage or defect caused by installation, attachment or use of any type of energy-saving or other unapproved devices (other than those authorized by the manufacturer into, onto or in conjunction with the water heater. The use of unauthorized energy-saving devices may shorten the life of the water heater and may endanger life and property. The manufacturer disclaims any responsibility for such loss or injury resulting from the use of such unauthorized devices. If local codes require external application of insulation blanket kits, the manufacturer’s instructions included with the kit must be carefully followed. Application of any external insulation, blankets or water pipe insulation to this water heater will require careful attention to the following: Do not cover the temperature and pressure-relief valve. Do not cover acce33 panels to the heating elements. Do not cover the electrical junction box of the water heater. Do not cover the operating or warming labels attached to the water heater or attempt to relocate them on the exterior of the insulation blanket.

BRANCH CIRCUIT SIZING GUIDE

Total Water Heater Wattage| Recommended Over Current Protection fuse or circuit breaker amperage rating| Copper Wire Size AWG   Based on N.E.C. Table 310-16 167°F/75°C
---|---|---
| 120V| 208V| 240V| 120V| 208V| 240V
1500| 20| 15| 15| 12| 14| 14
1700| 20| 15| 15| 12| 14| 14
2000| 25| 15| 15| 10| 14| 14
2500| 30| 15| 15| 10| 14| 14
3000| 35| 20| 20| 8| 12| 12
3500| | 25| 20| | 10| 12
3800| | 25| 20| | 10| 12
4000| | 25| 25| | 10| 10
4500| | 30| 25| | 10| 10
5000| | 30| 30| | 10| 10
5500| | 35| 30| | 8| 10
6000| | 40| 35| | 8| 8
9000| | | 50| | | 8

Less than 1500 Watts may be wired 14 gauge with 15 amp protection. Check local electrical codes, as they will also apply. NOTE: This guide recommends minimum branch circuit sizing based on the National Electric Code, Refer to wiring diagrams in this manual for field wiring connections.

Troubleshooting

Before you call for service.. Save time and money! Review the chart below first and you may not need to call for service.

CAUTON
For your safety, DO NOT attempt repair of electrical wiring, controls, heating elements or other safety devices.

WIRING DIAGRAM

GE02P08BAR

GE06P08BAR

GE Appliances Electric Water Heater Limited Warranty
All warranty service is provided by our Factory Service Centers, or an authorized Customer Care technician. To schedule service for your GE water heater call GE Water Heaters at 1-800-943-8186. Please have your serial number and your model number available when calling tor service. Servicing your appliance may require the use of the onboard data port for diagnostics. This gives a GE Appliances factory service technician the ability to quickly diagnose any issues with your appliance and helps GE Appliances improve its products by providing GE Appliances with information on your appliance. It you do not want your appliance data to be sent to GE Appliances, please advise your technician not to submit the data to GE Appliances at the time of service For The Period Of: |We Will Replace: Eight Years From the date of the original purchase The entire water heater if there is a defect in materials or workmanship relating to functional parts only. During this warranty period, labor and related service to install the new water heater or remove the defective water heater is not covered under this warranty. The replacement unit is warranted for the remainder of your water heater’s original eight-year warranty period. The replacement unit may either be a new unit or a refurbished unit.

What Is Not Covered
Service trips to your home to teach you how to use the product. Improper installation, delivery or maintenance. Replacement parts shipping and handling and cost to remove defective part or tank after the first year limited warranty Failure of the product if it is abused, misused, altered, or used for other than the intended purpose. are NOT covered. Use of this product where water is microbiologically unsafe or of unknown quality, without adequate disinfection before or after the system. Replacement of house fuses or resetting of circuit breakers. Damage to the product caused by accident, lightning, fire, flood or acts of God. Incidental or consequential damage caused by possible defects with this appliance, its installation or repair. Product not accessible to provide required service in a safe manner. Attic installation must have flooring and accessible stairs. f product removed from original installation location. If product or other appliance must be moved for service access. Damage, malfunction or failure caused by the use of repair service not approved by GE Appliances. Damage, malfunction or failure caused by the use of unapproved parts or components. Damage, malfunction or failure caused by operating the water heater with the anode rod removed. Anode Rod inspection and replacement. Damage, malfunction or failure resulting from operating the water heater with an empty or partially empty tank. Damage, malfunction or failure caused by subjecting the tank to pressure greater than those shown on the rating label. Damage, malfunction or failure caused by operating the water heater with electrical voltage outside the voltage range listed on the rating label. Water heater failure due to the water heater being operated in a corrosive atmosphere. If this water heater is used for other than residential private family use, labor will not be covered under warranty, and the parts warranty is reduced to 1 year from the date of purchase.

EXCLUSION OF IMPLIED WARRANTIES
Your sole and exclusive remedy is product repair as provided in this Limited Warranty. Any implied warranties, including the implied warranties of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose, are limited to one year or the shortest period allowed by law. This limited warranty is extended to the original purchaser and any succeeding owner for products purchased for home use within the USA. If the product is located in an area where service by a GE Appliances Authorized Servicer ls not available, you may be responsible for a trip charge or you may be required to bring the product to an Authorized GE Appliances Service location for service. In Alaska, the limited warranty excludes the cost of shipping or service calls to your home. Some states do not allow the exclusion or limitation of incidental or consequential damages. This limited warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights which vary from state to state. To know what your legal rights are, consult your local or state consumer affairs office or state’s Attorney General.

References

• Appliance Parts, Accessories & Water Filters | GE Appliances
• Contact Us or Get Help with Questions | GE Appliances
• GEAppliances.com/register
• Water Heater - Product Information, Warranty, Service and Technical Support

Read User Manual Online (PDF format)

Read User Manual Online (PDF format)  >>

Download This Manual (PDF format)

Download this manual  >>