GE SG60T12YVK Use and Care Manual - Page 7

Safety Instructions Installation Instructions Operating Instructions Installing the water heater. Care and Cleaning This water heater must be installed in accordance with these instructions, local codes, utility company requirements, and/or in the absence of local codes, use the latest edition of the American National Standard/National Fuel Gas Code. A copy can be purchased from either the American Gas Association, 1515 Wilson Blvd., Arlington, VA 22209 as booklet Z223.1 or National Fire Protection Association, Batterymarch Park, Quincy, MA 02269 as booklet NFPA No. 54. Location Max. 2″ Diameter of water heater plus 2″ min. The auxiliary catch pan installation MUST conform to local codes. WARNING: Combustible construction refers to adjacent walls and ceilings and should not be confused with combustible or flammable products and materials. Combustible and/or flammable products and materials should never be stored in the vicinity of this or any gas appliance. WARNING: If a location in a garage is the only alternative, the gas water heater should be installed so that the open flame of the pilot and main burner are no less than 18″ above the garage floor, unless specifically exempted from this by local code, rule, regulation or custom. 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. When such areas cannot be avoided it is recommended that a suitable catch pan, adequately drained, must be installed under the water heater. The pan must not restrict combustion air flow to the bottom of the water heater. Catch pan kits are available from the store where the water heater was purchased, or any water heater distributor. A gas fired water heater should not be installed in a space where liquids which give off flammable vapors are to be used or stored. Such liquids include gasoline, LP gas (butane and propane), paint or adhesives and their thinners, solvents or removers. Because of natural air movement in a room or other enclosed space, flammable vapors can be carried some distance from where their liquids are being used or stored. The open flame of the water heater's pilot light or main burner can ignite these vapors causing an explosion or fire which may result in severe burns, death or property damage. For these reasons installation of a gas fired water heater in a garage is not desirable. Raising the gas fired water heater will reduce, but not eliminate, the possibility of lighting the vapor of any flammable liquids which may be improperly stored or accidentally spilled. Stand kits to raise the water heater 18″ above the floor are available from the store where the water heater was purchased, or any water heater distributor. These kits must comply with local codes. ● The water heater should be installed as close as practical to the gas vent or chimney. ● Long hot water lines should be insulated to conserve water and energy. ● The water heater and water lines should be protected from exposure to freezing temperatures. ● Do not install the water heater in bathrooms, bedrooms, any occupied rooms normally kept closed, or in outdoor unprotected areas. ● Minimum clearance from combustible construction is 1″ sides and rear; 3″ from front of control; 12″ from the top. If the clearances stated on the Instruction/Warning Label, located on the front of the heater differ, install the water heater according to the clearances stated on the label. ● The water heater may be installed on combustible floors, but not directly on carpeting. If the water heater must be installed on carpeting, place a metal or wood panel beneath the water heater, extending beyond its full width and depth at least 3″ in all directions. ● If the water heater is installed in an alcove or closet, the entire floor must be covered by a wood or metal panel. A minimum of 24″ clearance from the front and top should be available for adequate inspection and servicing. ● If flexible connectors are used, the maximum length shall not exceed 36". ● If lever type gas shut-offs are used, they shall be T-Handle type. The water heater must be located so it is not subject to physical damage, for example, by moving vehicles, area flooding, etc. 7 Troubleshooting Tips Customer Service