water heaters

Tim_5

We have been installing Bradford White EF 100-199E with an Eccentric vent termination kit venting directly straight up through the roof ( approx. 15'0") well within specs. we are getting quite a bit of condensation buildup in the flue pipe that it is causing the pressure switch to fill up and or cut out due to excessive moisture. Of course the Manufacturer can not give us any help. Does anyone out there have any experience with these water heaters and this problem.
Tim

Big Ed

Trap

Have you tried installing a tee with a trap at the breach to divert the returning condensate ?

Mark A. Taylor - Director of Technical Support & T

Bradford White Water Heaters

Tim,

Based upon your statements, I would verify the condensate line in not restricted in any way, that it is constructed with material not smaller than 1/2" in diameter and sloped or pumped correctly to a suitable drain. This has been the primary cause for pressure switches becoming contaminated with condensate.

Also, unconditioned mechanical rooms in cold weather climates can contribute to condensate forming in the pressure switch or the pressure switch tubing. Bradford White does have service components available to address this field related issue. Please contact me with your shipping information, specific water heater model and serial number and these service components (with installation instructions) will be made available to you immediately.

You can reach me directly via the e-mail address listed or by phone at (800)900-3364 (ext. 3329) and we can discuss the particulars or your concerns.

Sincerely,
Bradford White Corporation

Mark A. Taylor
Director of Technical Support & Technology

Ragu_4

Nice Response From The Manufacturer!

I'm very impressed with your timely and effective response Mark. Hats off to ya!

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Dave Yates (PAH)

ditto

Nice to see such a rapid response!

We've installed a number of the EF models. Absolutely no problems to date & they do condensate like crazy. Gotta give the fluid easy access to a drain point in order to avoid a back-up.

But, what I like best about Bradford White, is their steadfast committment to contractor-only sales via wholesalers - no big box DIY outlets. It's a rarity in today's marketplace to see that kind of loyalty. Thanks BW!

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Tim_5

Water heaters

Thanks Mark for the response, i will contact you, as far as rhe condensate drain, it is well drained w/ 1/2" tube approx 3'-0" to a recessed floor drain, so i don't think trapped water is a problem it has also been mentioned to have a loop installed to prevent exhaust gasses from being blown into the buiding, could it be possible with the vent termination kit, that hot exhaust gas is being trapped or not being pushed by the pump significantly enough to over come some wind turbulence on the roof. Could we also extend the exhaust opening on the vent termination kit another maybe 2'-0" or so to overcome the hot exhaust gasses possibly rentering the make up air opening.
Tim

Tim_5

Mark, i should have spell checked before sending
Tim

Mark A. Taylor - Director of Technical Support & T

Bradford White Water Heaters

Tim,

Verify your trap (either running or looped) is not higher than the condensate connection exiting the bottom of the exhaust elbow. This will insure evacuation of the condensate from the exhaust tube and protect from exhaust gases from emitting from the condensate line.

Extending the exhaust tube on the concentric termination is recommended on vertical discharge installations if the roof line is within the "2' above within 10' rule" per the National Fuel Gas Code. This is especially true on roofs with parapet wall to roof construction.

Again, please feel free to contact me directly for further or more detailed information.

Regards,
Bradford White Corporation

Mark A. Taylor
Director of Technical Support & Technology
mtaylor@bradfordwhite.com
(800)900-3364 ext. 3329