Important Notice: Flue-type gas water heaters (commonly known as improved "direct-vent" types) pose a carbon monoxide poisoning risk in poorly ventilated areas because they draw combustion air from inside the room and exhaust fumes outside via natural draft. Therefore, correct installation and usage are crucial. Many cities in China now prohibit installing these units in bathrooms. We strongly recommend choosing a safer "forced exhaust" (or "power-vent") gas water heater. If you already own or must use a flue-type heater, please strictly follow these guidelines.

Part 1: Usage Instructions

1. Pre-Use Checks

• Ventilation Check: Before each use, ensure windows or vents in the room (usually kitchen or balcony) where the heater is installed are open for fresh air.

• Flue Check: Visually check that the exhaust pipe is securely connected, undamaged, and not blocked or detached.

• Leak Check: Smell for gas odor and check gas lines/connections for damage.

2. Starting Up & Temperature Adjustment

• Open Gas Valve: Ensure the valve on the gas line is open.

• Open Water Valves: Fully open the cold water inlet valve on the heater and the valve to the hot water tap.

• Ignition:

  • Piezo Ignition: Press the knob and turn counterclockwise to "Ignition." You'll hear a clicking sound. Hold for 10-15 seconds after ignition before releasing to prevent flameout.

  • Electronic Ignition (Battery Operated): Insert batteries. Press the ignition button or turn the knob; it will spark automatically until lit.

• Temperature Adjustment:

  • Gas Flow: Use the gas control knob. Turn counterclockwise to increase flame (hotter), clockwise to decrease (cooler).

  • Water Flow: Adjust flow at the hot water tap. Lower flow = hotter water, higher flow = cooler water.

  • Seasonal Mode: Some models have Winter/Summer switches. Summer mode uses fewer burners (lower output).

3. During Use & Shutdown

• During Use: Watch the flame. It should be clear blue. A yellow flame indicates incomplete combustion (Danger!).

• Shutdown: After use, turn the knob clockwise to "Off." Then, close the hot water tap. For long periods of non-use, close the gas and water inlet valves.

4. Safety Warnings

• Never Use in Enclosed Spaces: The bathroom MUST be ventilated during use.

• Continuous Use: Avoid continuous use for long periods (e.g., over 30 minutes) to prevent oxygen depletion and incomplete combustion.

• If Problems Occur: If you smell gas, see abnormal flames (yellow, lifting off), hear loud ignition noises, or experience flameout, STOP use immediately, close all valves, and contact a professional.

• Freeze Protection: In cold climates, if installed in areas like balconies that may freeze, drain all water from the heater when not in use during winter to prevent tank cracking.

Part 2: Installation Guidelines

Strong Recommendation: Installation MUST be performed by qualified professionals from a gas company or the manufacturer. Do not install it yourself!
The following are key standards for your reference and oversight.

1. Location (Crucial)

• Do NOT Install In: Bedrooms, living rooms, bathrooms, basements, or enclosed cabinets due to poor ventilation.

• Recommended Locations: Well-ventilated kitchens or non-enclosed balconies.

• Space Requirements:

  • The room must have a window open directly to the outdoors for air flow.

  • Sufficient clearance around the heater is needed (typically >15cm sides/back, >60cm front) for operation, maintenance, and air circulation.

  • Installation height is typically around 1.5 meters, with the viewport at eye level.

2. Flue Pipe Requirements (Lifeline)

• Material: Must use the original metal flue pipe or equivalent. Plastic or aluminum foil materials are prohibited.

• Routing: Keep the path short and straight. Use no more than 3 elbows.

• Outlet:

  • Must vent directly outside to open air.

  • The outlet should slope slightly downwards (approx. 3-5 degrees) to prevent rain ingress.

  • A wind cap must be installed.

• Critical Distances: The flue outlet must be away from air intakes (e.g., windows). Keep >30cm from windows/ eaves above and >60cm from door/window openings to the side.

3. Water & Gas Connections

• Gas Pipe: Use dedicated gas-grade stainless steel corrugated pipe or galvanized pipe. Secure joints with proper clamps. Check for leaks with soapy water. Do not use thread seal tape on connections.

• Cold Water Pipe: Connect to the cold water inlet (usually blue or marked "IN"). Installing a manual shut-off valve before the inlet is recommended for maintenance.

• Hot Water Pipe: Connect to the hot water outlet (usually red or marked "OUT").

4. Other Installation Details

• Power: For electronic ignition models, install batteries correctly in a clean, dry compartment.

• Wall Strength: The installation wall must be a load-bearing wall, strong enough to support the heater's weight (often over 20kg) and withstand additional force. The installation must be secure.

Common Issues & Troubleshooting

• No Ignition:

  • Dead batteries (replace).

  • Gas valve closed.

  • Low water pressure (check pressure; high-rise users may need a booster pump).

• Yellow Flame with Soot:

  • Carbon buildup on heat exchanger/burner.

  • Lack of oxygen in the room.

  • Stop use immediately and contact a professional for cleaning/inspection.

• Unstable Water Temperature:

  • Significant water pressure fluctuations (check if other taps are running).

  • Unstable gas pressure.

• Flame Goes Out During Use:

  • Safety device activated due to prolonged use.

  • Faulty flame sensor.