Whirlpool W10100910 User Manual

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IMPORTANT: The water heater should be located in 
an area where leakage of the tank or connections 
will not result in damage to the area adjacent to the 
water heater or to lower floors of the structure. Due 
to the normal corrosive action of the water, the tank 
will eventually leak after an extended period of time. 
Also any external plumbing leak, including those from 
improper installation, may cause early failure of the tank 
due to corrosion if not repaired.  If the homeowner is 
uncomfortable with making the repair a qualified person 
should be contacted.  A suitable metal drain pan should 
be installed under the water heater as shown below, 
to help protect the property from damage which may 
occur from condensate formation or leaks in the piping 
connections or tank. The pan must limit the water level 
to a maximum depth of 1-3/4” and be two inches wider 
than the heater and piped to an adequate drain. NOTE: 
The pan must not restrict combustion air flow. Locate the 
water heater near a suitable indoor drain. Outside drains 
are subject to freezing temperatures which can obstruct 
the drain line. The piping should be at least 3/4” ID and 
pitched for proper drainage. Under no circumstances will 
the manufacturer or seller of this water heater be held 
liable for any water damage which is caused by your 
failure to follow these instructions.
1 3/4” maximum
Pipe to
adequate
drain
At least 2” greater than the 
diameter of the water heater.
Reverse flow 
of gases
Exhaust
Fan
Figure 1
Air-moving
Devices
Back
Sides
Sides
Top
View
Top
to
ceiling
Vent
Front
24” minimum 
for service
Figure 2
Minimum Clearance
Locations
Clearances and Accessibility
NOTE: Minimum clearances from combustible materials 
are stated on the data plate adjacent to the gas control 
valve/thermostat of the water heater.
The water heater is certified for installation on a 
combustible floor.
• 
IMPORTANT: If installing over carpeting, the carpeting 
must be protected by a metal or wood panel beneath 
the water heater. The protective panel must extend 
beyond the full width and depth of the water heater by 
at least three inches (76.2mm) in any direction; or if in 
an alcove or closet installation, the entire floor must be 
covered by the panel. 
• 
Figure 2 may be used as a reference guide to locate 
the specific clearance locations. A minimum of 24 
inches of front clearance should be provided for 
inspection and service.
State of California
NOTE: The water heater must be braced, anchored, or 
strapped to avoid moving during an earthquake. 
Contact local utilities for code requirements in your area 
or call 1-877-817-6750 and request instructions.
• 
The water heater should be located in an area not 
subject to freezing temperatures. Water heaters located 
in unconditioned spaces (i.e., attics, basements, 
etc.) may require insulation of the water piping and 
drain piping to protect against freezing. The drain and 
controls must be easily accessible for operation and 
service. Maintain proper clearances as specified on the 
data plate.
• 
Do not locate the water heater near an air-moving 
device. The operation of air-moving devices such as 
exhaust fans, ventilation systems, clothes dryers, 
fireplaces, etc., can affect the proper operation of 
the water heater. Special attention must be given to 
conditions these devices may create. Flow reversal of 
flue gases may cause an increase of carbon monoxide 
inside of the dwelling.
• 
If the water heater is located in an area that is 
subjected to lint, dirt, and oil, it may be necessary 
to periodically clean the flame-trap (see External 
Inspection & Cleaning of the Flame-trap).