Hybrid Water Heater Maintenance for all Brands - Rheem, AO Smith

Venting this unit - • Vent your Rheem or AO ...
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Hi, thanks for watching our video about how to maintain a hybrid water heater. This will include yearly maintenance needed on a hybrid water heater.
These steps will include:
How to Drain a Hybrid water heater tank
How to clean hybrid water heater filter
How to clean condensation line on hybrid water heater
How to test pressure relief valve on hybrid water heater
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[@workingraveyard]

Nice video. Some pointers for those with older tanks and rusty pipes. Never test the T&P valve because they tend to leak. All it takes is a piece of debris on the seat and you'll have a leaker. When bleeding the air out use the bathtub to avoid plugging up the aerator. Old rusty pipes will flow red rusty water before it runs clear.

[@FamilyDIYtv]

This is great advice ! Actually, as i was standing there running the water i was thinking to myself - i hope this isn’t clogging my aerator…. Ugh - should have mentioned that. Thank you for the comment ! Mike

[@FamilyDIYtv]

I’m going to pin this comment to the top !

[@MikeSiemens88]

Never testing T&P valve is bad advice. If it ends up leaking, replace it. Could be a tough job if it's rusted in there but leaving it would be a major safety issue. If you can't replace it, maybe it's time for a new water heater.

[@ChristianRRL]

I love the raw amount of "no big deals" mentioned in this video. I want to embrace this in my life to handle any problems - big or small - as "no big deal".

[@FamilyDIYtv]

Ha - had to watch it over to see what you were talking about ! Lol. I want to inspire people to do their own maintenance and diy projects around their house. It’s all pretty easy and anyone can do it. Anyone can learn to do almost anything. Mike

[@benwrench2023]

I really like the way you say (paraphrase) "you've made it this far, so I guess you liked it?" Great argument, I've never felt more comfortable pressing the like button.

[@FamilyDIYtv]

Excellent! 😂

[@Alexm920]

Appreciate the straight forward video, lots of little details to keep track of. I really love the idea of leaving the dated checklist at the heater, every time I get around to household maintenance I can never recall the last time I did it!

[@DamienMcAnanyLuce]

I haven't tried doing these steps yet, but the video has been really easy to understand and super helpful in knowing what I need to do. Thanks for creating this!

[@SMITTY19722]

I’m actually having a Rheem heat pump water heater put in next week and found your easy steps maintenance super helpful in my decision process, thank you for the great video

[@FamilyDIYtv]

Glad it helped!

[@minituck04]

In it for the win. Alot of great info. Wasnt looking for a hybrid Rheem after our elec tankless went out on Christmas. But here I am watching all your videos and you had me sold on one after your video explaining the exchanger. In Houston so it stays hot here and would work amazingly in the attic with the benefit of cooling it down. Thanks alot my friend.

[@FamilyDIYtv]

Thanks for the nice comment, glad it helped, even if it helped alittle! i appreciate it ! Thanks Mike

[@stevenhall9848]

thank you. finally drained mine after 9 mo. did not seem too bad. a little junk in the nylon and the water in the sink was murky for awhile.

[@vcfirefox]

Sir, you saved me $150 on water heater maintenance costs per year. I am glad I found this video.

[@stephaniel9876]

Great video, thank you! I’ve had my Rheem for 3 years and love the efficiency. I have flushed it several times but did not know about the other steps 😬. Mine is in my old cellar so a little nervous to see what the air filter looks like after 3 years.

[@coitudaniel9863]

Very instructive. Perfectly presented!!!

[@mshortin]

I have the exact same model and I have been avoiding doing this because a) I didn't know what to do, and b) I thought it would be complicated. This video actually makes me look forward to doing it this morning. Very clearly and simply explained. Thank you! Also, just FYI, it's time to do yours again 🙂

[@FamilyDIYtv]

Thanks for the reminder- ha ! Hope this helped and consider subscribing! Thanks Mike

[@capac1jah]

Did not check for alarm code history. But liked all other inspections. Mahalo. Capac1jah

[@stevepatcyk8083]

Great content! Just had mine installed 2 weeks ago. I know maintenance is key for these new units. Alot more things to break. 😬

[@FamilyDIYtv]

Totally agree!

[@gmacgill7]

Thank you. Very helpful!

[@lawrencemartin24]

Thank you so much. Saved me an expensive plumber call.

[@FamilyDIYtv]

Glad to help

[@Steve410811]

I installed rheem Heatpump hybrid 3 yrs ago. Its awesome. I save 50 dllrs a month on heating the water. I usually keep it on Heatpump only. When Ppl come to visit I set for max demand.

[@NotSeattleSpace]

Great content, I would recommend keeping the water on when flushing the unit as the pressure from the incoming water line will help flush any sort of build up out instead of just bypassing it. When the water goes cold you know you’ve flush out the tank

[@FamilyDIYtv]

Tate - Great tip !!! Thanks again - Mike

[@hstetser5376]

I would recommend white vinegar in lieu of bleach. Does the same job without being caustic.

[@Ace6434654321]

Great video. Super helpful

[@michaelcantu1766]

Thanks for the video I just installed my hybrid water heater and had to replace the condenser block sensor it was easy to do but the list you recommend is the best ideal that I will copy

[@FamilyDIYtv]

Glad it helped

[@NWRVSierraGroup-ii9fm]

Thank you! I have a new Rheem hybrid.

[@FamilyDIYtv]

Good choice!👍

[@kt4ever02]

Omg thank you so much. Your detailed video saved the day!!!!❤

[@FamilyDIYtv]

Wow - thankyou so much ! I appreciate it more than you know. Hope my others videos help you as well :).

[@carlcecil79]

Good overview, thanks...glad that I watched...

[@FamilyDIYtv]

I hope it helped ! Thanks

[@vellimiere18]

You also need to check the temperature difference between your air supply and air exhaust. There should be a 10° differential from the supply to the exhaust air temp.

[@kevinc6805]

Another pointer, if you open up a faucet upstairs to help the draining process, it's best not to use the kitchen faucet. Faucets with a pull out spray usually have a check valve internally so you would NOT be letting air into the system to help the water heater drain.

[@FamilyDIYtv]

great point ! i wish i could take everyone’s input and”update” the video, so many good comments for you guys. maybe i should do that …. Thanks Mike

[@jasontrades4x]

Good info buddy.

[@Landonsoul]

Thanks!

[@FamilyDIYtv]

Thanks !!! I hope you have an amazing day and I’m glad this helped you !

[@salvenezia1817]

Great job

[@FamilyDIYtv]

Thanks !

[@caddyzig]

Interesting video with lots of good reminders about regular maintenance. I was happy to hear the hybrid water heater running again at the beginning. We have time of use electricity and I’d really like to get one and set it to heat up overnight. It’s in a hall closet, though, right outside the master bedroom bedroom, and I’m still not convinced it wouldn’t wake me up every time it ran!

[@FamilyDIYtv]

I wish i had a sound meter to measure it and then show comparisons …. Maybe i need to fine one! Let me see what i can find…. Maybe I’ll do a short… -Mike

[@caddyzig]

@@FamilyDIYtv That would be interesting. It would be very disappointing to spend the money buying and installing one to find out that it woke me up whenever it ran! Helpful to know there’s not much more to the maintenance than a regular one, though.

[@FamilyDIYtv]

@@caddyzig I’m making a video on it. Found a free app that measure decibels. -Mike

[@caddyzig]

@@FamilyDIYtv Excellent! Wonder if it would be safe to add some sound insulation inside the closet if it really was too loud. 🤷🏻‍♂️

[@bevtitus2812]

They are kinda loud

[@SuperGhettoBob]

Thanks.

[@msab6936]

Cleaning vinegar is a better alternative to bleach. Great informative video.

[@bevtitus2812]

Thanks buddy

[@FamilyDIYtv]

Thank you for the thank you. Thanks, Thanks !…I mean Mike

[@derekroberts5984]

Nice video, just installed one of these. One thing I noticed about yours is that the relief valve tubing is PVC. From what I understand, PVC is only rated for cold water and could fail if hot water ran through it. I installed copper, but Pex tubing is fine, too.

[@FamilyDIYtv]

Yep , it's PEX. PEX is rated for hot and cold water. Thanks, Mike

[@timmybui6062]

Good work but you forgot the anode rod brother!

[@FamilyDIYtv]

agree !

[@sco0tpa]

Thanks

[@FamilyDIYtv]

Happy new year !!! Mike

[@MB-nm8tt]

I’ve done zero maintenance on my 15 year old tank and it’s still running like a champ. But I’m sure if I did some maintenance it would probably last 200 years.

[@johnwiesner6534]

Hello- We are considering changing our full electric to something else. The jury is still out between Heat pump type or Tankless. For the regular "can" crowd: I know, I crack myself up sometimes. Those were all good tips. But while you were refilling the tank after you drained for scale, etc. I noticed that you were standing right next to the pressure relief valve. Having said that, what would keep you from opening and holding the valve to clear most of the air that otherwise would come spitting and spurting out of the faucet that was opened. When water comes out, you just release it to normal position. I also just thought, (in my case), that I have a main air return line to the furnace very close to where the heater stands. So I will vent the exhaust from the heat pump back into the air return. No negative pressure problem, reduced cooling of the basement because the exhaust will be piped back into the house system were it will be either reheated in the winter or cooled during the summer. My work here is done. Have a good day.

[@FamilyDIYtv]

Ha Love all jokes ! And a valid points.

[@DarrenMacDonald]

Thanks for the tips. I have a 65 Gal Rheem Proterra Professional Hybrid as well and we are on a well. I just hooked the tank up about 2 months ago and we are starting to get a sulphur smell on just our hot water. Rheem mentions adding chlorine in their manual to cure this, has anyone done that before?

[@joebuttas26]

I subscribed

[@FamilyDIYtv]

thanks !

[@moparfamily814]

Also i have an inline water filter so my tank gets filtered water at all times since day one do i have to flush all the water out the tank for this process or just half

[@alvinhoang1800]

Thanks, do you need to replace the Anode Rod after few years?

[@FamilyDIYtv]

Yes, I'm not there yet but when i get there I'll make a video about replacing it.

[@MikeSiemens88]

Several comments have already mentioned using vinegar vs bleach to flush the condensate drain. I opted for clear vinyl tubing for my installation. This allows me to see if there's any buildup. Having said that, condensate from any type of heat pump or refrigeration/air conditioning unit is very clean water, much like distilled water. About the only contaminant might be traces of copper from the core. Even that should stay in suspension & not cause any buildup issues. Hence, IMHO the bleach/vinegar step is unnecessary.

[@FamilyDIYtv]

I've had condensate lines backup on me multiple times throughout the years, that's why i now have leak detectors under all my appliances that have condensate lines. i hear ya tho, it 'should' be clean.... Thanks Mike

[@dns718.]

@@FamilyDIYtv My 5 yo Rheem hybrid actually has two condensate lines next to each other (3/4" and 3/8"), not sure why. The original plumber installed without a "T" so I was wondering about logistics to attempt to dismantle (doesn't appear easy). Knowing this is expected to be "clean," seeing condensate drip at the exit (outside through the wall; we are in warm Florida), and no alarm or error reporting a blocked condensate (apparently this model detects), are suggesting to me to put this on the back burner. Still, if I have a plumber come to deal with the apparently failed compressor, my primary issue right now, I'll have them put a "T" connection on both pipes to make these inspectable/maintainable. Aside from this failure, I've owned a GE hybrid in the past and both have given me great service and savings (until now). Bonus here in Florida for a garage installation is that it will provide some cool air as well :). Come to think of it, in Oregon where my GE hybrid was, in the basement storage area under the house it helped to dehumidify. Video great though navigated here hoping to see something about compressor. Anyway, thanks!

[@cranbers]

Have you gotten the dreaded a005 t005 or t009 error yet? Word is they have a huge issue with that now. Something about temp sensors being sub par and going out with in a yea or 2 or less. I got mine in May 2021, just now in Dec 2022 started getting complaints with those errors. Interesting thing is only one went to the econet app telling me there was an issue. Can't wait to see. If you ever do have to fix it and you do it yourself you have to take that top cap off, Mine is pushed up against something like yours issue so I can't reach one of the screws that means draining it unhooking water to move it a few inches so I can get the screw out not too excited about that.

[@FamilyDIYtv]

I have not gotten that but thanks for the heads up !!

[@Jimbobo162]

I bet you loved it this summer but in the winter it works again you if it’s really cold outside.

[@FamilyDIYtv]

Jim - you know it! not sure of you've seen my other videos. But i'm at the point were i'm going to turn the heat pump off during the cold months. Can't deal with it cooling down my basement. -Mike

[@Jimbobo162]

@@FamilyDIYtv I watched it. I live near Dayton Ohio and believe it or not but new houses down the street from me have gas heat and electric regular water heater. It’s sad these home builders are doing things as cheaply as they can and not looking out for their customer/the environment.

[@FamilyDIYtv]

@@Jimbobo162 that’s insane to me !

[@jacktheknifescyzor8896]

What kind of a matt is under it?

[@tylerrodda3102]

Two questions: Do you happen to have the dimensions of this specific water heater? How much space do you feel is necessary to work on and around this water heater?

[@FamilyDIYtv]

62” high and 24” deep. It’s needs plenty of air to, think they say about 700 sqft. Can run ducts out of small closet if you want to stuff it into a small closet.

[@619Dude]

Just curious if you set yours at 132° for a certain reason? Have you determined that to be the ideal temperature? Also, what about the anode being inspected and serviced?

[@FamilyDIYtv]

Hello, yes 132 was determined to be perfect for my family, this of course is a personal preference. The Anode rod can be replaced but it depends on your local environment. they can last from 4- 8 years or longer. I should have mentioned it, but there's videos on how to replace it if you need. when it's time to replace mine i'll make video... Thanks Mike

[@JayCProd]

How about the A node? does that need to be switch out for hybrids

[@FamilyDIYtv]

Yes it does …. Not yearly but I should have mentioned it. When I gotta do mine I’ll post video.

[@boatman222345]

FWIW most plumbers recommend against "testing" the pressure relief valve because they sometimes stick open during the test and cause a big problem.

[@FamilyDIYtv]

Interesting, I’ve never heard this. I’d say if the valve is stuck open, it’s faulty and should be replaced. I’d rather it be stuck open than stuck closed And replacing is actually pretty easy. I’ll ask around though, I’m now interested…. Thanks Mike

[@boatman222345]

@@FamilyDIYtv They say that the valve sticks open because of debris that gets flushed through when you open if for the test. This apparently results in a real mess and it doesn't necessarily mean that the valve was faulty or that it wouldn't have served its purpose were it called upon to release excessive pressure. However, like you, it makes me a bit nervous to forgo testing a component essential to preventing over-pressurization. Not sure what the best course of action is here.

[@condor5635]

@@boatman222345 - the best course of action is to leave it alone except for every three years maybe. Doing it to relieve pressure to drain or yearly is definitely not necessary and can cause additional issues like it doesn’t close completely. That doesn’t mean it was defective. Tested every three years and if it drips after testing it and you can’t get it to clear then you’ll have to buy a new one. But definitely don’t test it every year just to test it. Not necessary.

[@tylerplude4527]

Would you insulate the room to make it like a cool food storage room? Or just to minimize the cold air from going through the house or would that backfire and make the heat pump work slower also? What are your thoughts?

[@FamilyDIYtv]

It's a great idea ! i can see that working for alot of people, but it won't work in my case - great idea. Some others have said make it a wine celler ! i like that idea too ! -Mike

[@MikeSiemens88]

Both the intake & output of the heat pump may be ducted. Kits are available but pricey. The idea is to pull warmer air from an upper level of the home & duct the cool air either outside or a room you wish to help cool in the summer heat. I might duct the intake but to be honest, in my case the unit doesn't run long enough to cool effectively as my basement is rather open & can buffer a lot of heat or cold.

[@brisca3301]

Do your fan blades get moldy gunk on them? If so, how to clean them? I am thinking about ac coil cleaner or similar but not sure

[@FamilyDIYtv]

no they don't, sounds like you could have a moisture problem. might want to check your filter and maybe lower humidity.

[@Diy-For-Life]

So how often or steps for checking anode rod? Thanks for all your solid videos. Im in market shopping. Trying to figure if i want ao smith vs the Rheem.

[@FamilyDIYtv]

Probably should check every few years … I haven’t checked mine yet. When i do I’ll make a video but from what I see it’s a real pain to get to. I should have mentioned in this video…. Thanks for the nice comment ! I try ! Mike

[@Diy-For-Life]

@@FamilyDIYtv thank you! I did see someone say if you dont check it within first few years they can tend to sieze up on there and not come out. That and i wasnt sure if this had one or not.

[@patloftus9928]

I'm nerd enough to tape a plastic bag on to the WH and put the paper in that. (I'm now shopping for one and my notes will be in a bag on my elec. unit ready for the emergency that will push me to buy.)

[@FamilyDIYtv]

great idea !

[@moparfamily814]

I havent flushed my hybrid tank out since i got it almost 4 years ago should or could i still do it without having to buy another one

[@FamilyDIYtv]

I’d just flush it. Will be okay.

[@lbabb0607]

Do you ever get sulfer-smelling ( rotten egg) smell with your heat pump wooder heater?

[@FamilyDIYtv]

I have not, I don't think this is a function of the water heater, tho.... Are you on well ?

[@kenjohnson6208]

Could you just turn off your HPWH vs. turning it off at the breaker?

[@FamilyDIYtv]

Sure, just gotta make sure it’s not turned back on by mistake

[@thor8580]

Hey I’ve got the same model . What could be the causes of an alarm beeping?

[@FamilyDIYtv]

is there a code on the screen? - i'd google the code with the word rheem.

[@FamilyDIYtv]

or check for water leak on floor... or maybe someone spilled water on it and triggered alarm

[@TheFruitofTruth]

I have an issue with mine the power isn’t going to the machine somehow. We just bought a house and the heater is this model it was working before we signed the paperwork but we came in the night we signed it and I checked the water it wasn’t working. Since then we’ve been without hot water, I’ve checked everything and it all looks good but only the display is off

[@FamilyDIYtv]

check the break box and make sure all breakers are on…. i’d grab one of these and see if the unit is getting power amzn.to/3atXEHK can get at lowes or home depot if you know the breaker it’s one, cycle the power(like you do with a computer) good luck - sorry you’re dealing with this in a new house ;( -Mike

[@TheFruitofTruth]

@@FamilyDIYtv if I do where would I check if it works

[@FamilyDIYtv]

@@TheFruitofTruth the break box or the cable suppling power to unit. if your not following - maybe, ask someone that helped you move to check maybe ?

[@TheFruitofTruth]

@@FamilyDIYtv checked the voltage it’s 100% fine and hooked up just not turning on

[@FamilyDIYtv]

@@TheFruitofTruth so the units getting power but not turning on …. your panels prob bad - unfortunately. i’d call rheem asap and see if it’s under warranty. they can at least send you a panel …. did you try to power cycle it yet ?

[@2s7tuv9xz]

How about checking anode rod?

[@FamilyDIYtv]

Great point ! I probably should have covered that, maybe in separate video when mine needs to be replaced... -Mike

[@jwhite4]

@@FamilyDIYtv There is one on KZbin. Looks like a PITA, because you have to remove the entire top shell to get to it.

[@tim3172]

No, you turn off the power, gas, or propane. You do *NOT* turn off the cold water supply. You attach a hose to the valve Careful, it's hot -> You open the drain valve You allow a few gallons of water to drain out You close the valve. You use the cold water supply to force the sediment out. Leaving the cold water on also greatly lessens the stress of going from a tank of hot water to suddenly-cold. It allows it to function as though you simply lost power mid-shower. 135 degrees is considered the minimum temperature for killing Legionella, the bacteria that causes Legionnaire's Disease. Any hotter than that is personal preference. Anything colder poses a serious risk to young children, elderly, and the immunocompromised.

[@wheeleking9049]

These water heaters are built to sell, not to last. One yr full warranty is not cool. It is very nice looking.

[@michaels300]

Is your name Mike Sante? You look just like this guy I used to ride BMX with. It’s uncanny.

[@FamilyDIYtv]

Could be - what’s the S in your name stand for ? Bumper ?

[@skyrunr]

Doh, you forgot the anode rod!

[@FamilyDIYtv]

Yes I did….

[@freeheeler09]

Hybrid water heaters are too loud. Just installed a Rheem on Friday and will take it out and return it on Monday

[@user-vg3uk2is9i]

A bomb? OMG! I guess I am not buying a hybrid. Good Lord!

[@FamilyDIYtv]

Every single water heater has a pressure relief valve …. Not unique to hybrid. Happy new year Mike

[@practicallandlording2787]

Always bleed air from water out a tub fill. They do not have a aerator which can clog with crud. If you don't have a tub fill remove the aerator from a bathroom sing (many kitchen sinks are inconvenient) and then blow off the air and rusty water.

[@stopbotheringmedamit]

Thanks!

[@FamilyDIYtv]

No thankyou !!!! I appreciate it! Thanks Mike