- 9 -
Scaling Water
Scaling water is water that contains levels of calcium carbonate (total hardness in excess of 200
mg/Litre at any time when the water heater is operating). Scaling water can block and prevent the
pressure & temperature relief valve from operating, resulting in damage to the water heater storage
cylinder and water heater components.
An expansion control valve must be fitted in ALL areas with scaling water to assist in preventing
blockage of the pressure and temperature relief valve.
Warning: Failure to install an expansion control valve where scaling water conditions occur may
result in the water heater storage cylinder failing, or under certain circumstances, exploding.
To avoid damage to the storage cylinder and water heater components, Rheem strongly recommends
scaling water be treated before entering the water heater by fitting appropriate water filters/conditioners
etc. Refer to your Local Water Authority for information on water in your area. A build up of white
sediment on hot water taps or shower roses can be indicative of scaling water. Contact Rheem if this
condition is observed.
Warning: Damage caused by scaling water can affect the Rheem warranty.
Spring, Dam, Bore & River Water Supplies
The Rheem warranty of this water heater will not cover resultant faults on components including the
storage tank due to the effects of sludge and/or sediment as a result of connection to a water supply
from silted or treated sources i.e. springs, dams, bores, rivers or towns supplied from a bore.
SATURATION INDEX
The saturation index is used as a measure of the water's corrosive or scaling properties. In a scaling
water supply calcium carbonate is deposited out of the water onto any hot metallic surface. When
scaling water has a saturation index greater than +0.40 an expansion control valve must be fitted on
the cold water line after the non-return valve.
Where the saturation index exceeds +0.80, low watts density elements should be used. Where the
saturation index is less than -1.0, a corrosive resistant heating element should be used.
Contact Rheem Service for further information.