Rheem RTE 27 Series Use and Care Manual - Page 3

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION. READ ALL INSTRUCTIONS BEFORE USING. DANGER! water temperature setting Safety and energy conservation are factors to be considered when selecting the water temperature setting of water heater's thermostat. 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 below. This label is also located on the water heater near the thermostat access panel. Time/Temperature Relationship in Scalds ! DANGER HOT BURN Water temperature over 125°F can cause severe burns instantly or death from scalds. Children, disabled and elderly are at highest risk of being scalded. See instruction manual before setting temperature at water heater. Feel water before bathing or showering. Temperature limiting valves are available, see manual. NOTICE: Mixing valves are available for reducing point of use water temperature by mixing hot and cold water in branch water lines. Contact a licensed plumber or the local plumbing authority for further information. Temperature Time To Produce a Serious Burn 120°F 125°F 130°F 135°F 140°F 145°F 150°F 155°F More than 5 minutes 1½ to 2 minutes About 30 seconds About 10 seconds Less than 5 seconds Less than 3 seconds About 1½ seconds About 1 second Table courtesy of Shriners Burn Institute The chart shown above may be used as a guide in determining the proper water temperature for your home. ! DANGER: Households with small children, disabled, or elderly persons may require a 120°F or lower thermostat setting to prevent contact with "HOT" water. The temperature of the water in the heater is regulated by the electronic control on the front of the water heater. To comply with safety regulations the thermostat was set at the lowest factory setting before the water heater was shipped from the factory. The illustration below shows the temperature adjustment dial used for setting the water temperature. Thermostat dial pointer Refer to the Operating Instructions in this manual for detailed instructions in how to adjust the thermostat(s). ! DANGER: Hotter water increases the potential for Hot Water SCALDS. 3