Plumbing / Sinks Faucets
User Guide for Alpha SMART 18i Instant Shower Heater
Quick guide for the Alpha SMART 18i series instant shower heater, covering installation, electrical connection, safety features, and maintenance procedures.
Table of contents
Quick guide from the manual
This document provides essential installation, operation, and safety instructions for the Alpha SMART 18E, 18EP, 18i, 18E SP, 18EP SP, and 18i SP series instant shower heaters. Key safety requirements include mandatory earthing, the use of a 10mA RCD, and ensuring the unit is installed by a competent professional. Never attempt to repair the unit yourself.
Safety and Warnings
- Earthing: Must be installed in accordance with local regulations.
- Water Supply: Not for potable water. Do not block the outlet.
- Electrical: Must be permanently connected to the electricity supply through a double-pole switch with at least 3mm contact separation.
- Testing: Always test water temperature with your hand before stepping into the shower.
- ELSD: The built-in Earth Leakage Sensing Device must be tested monthly using the TEST and RESET buttons.
Installation Procedures
Installation must be performed by a qualified professional. Ensure the unit is mounted on a solid wall, approximately 1.5 meters above the floor. Do not reverse the INLET and OUTLET connections.
Mounting and Plumbing
- Turn off the water source.
- Remove the heater cover by unscrewing the bottom screw.
- Mark and drill 4 mounting holes (5.0mm diameter).
- Connect the Stop Valve to the inlet using the provided rubber seal.
- Connect the flexible hose to the outlet, ensuring no blockages or excessive force is applied.
Electrical Connection
Ensure the mains power is off before starting. Connect the wires to the terminal block: Live (Red/Brown), Neutral (Black/Blue), and Earth (Green/Yellow). Ensure the Temperature Control and Pump Control knobs are aligned to 'OFF' before replacing the cover.
Operation
Switch on the heater power. The 'AUTO TEST' and 'LINE FAULT' indicators should light up green. Turn on the Stop Valve and adjust the water flow. Use the Temperature Control knob to adjust the heating level. If the unit has a built-in pump, use the Pump Control knob or Pump Activator button to manage water pressure.
Maintenance
Clean the heater casing with a damp cloth and mild detergent. Do not use thinner, alcohol, or petrol. Regularly clean the filter mesh inside the Stop Valve and the handshower to prevent sediment buildup and ensure proper water flow.
Manufacturer information
Alpha Home Appliances
Practical help
Common problems
AUTO TEST or LINE FAULT indicator shows RED light
Switch off the mains supply immediately and contact a qualified electrician to check the electrical wiring.
Water not hot enough even at 'MAX' setting
Reduce the water inflow using the Water Regulator or check if the incoming water pressure is too high.
ELSD trips during normal operation
Switch off the mains supply and contact the service center for inspection.
Before use
- Ensure the unit is properly earthed.
- Verify the 10mA RCD is installed.
- Test the ELSD by pressing the TEST button (unit should trip) and RESET button (unit should resume).
- Check that the water flow is at least 2 liters/minute.
- Ensure the INLET and OUTLET connections are not reversed.
Specs in practice
- Minimum Flow Rate
- The heater requires at least 2 liters/minute (1.5L/min for pump models) to operate.
- Minimum Pressure
- 20kPa (0.2 bar / 2.9 psi) is required for the unit to function.
Images and diagrams
- Diagram 1: Shows the required electrical wiring with a 10mA RCD and double-pole switch.
- Diagram 2: Illustrates the plumbing connection for both gravity-fed and mains-fed water supplies.
- External Part Identification: Shows the location of the Temperature Control knob, Pump Control knob, and TEST/RESET buttons.
Model compatibility
- The heater is designed for open outlet use.
- Not intended for use with potable water supply.
- Pump models (18EP/18i) are designed for low-pressure areas.
Manual page author
Michael Turner
Technical manual editor
Reviews PDF manuals for structure, safety notes, and practical product details so readers can find the right information quickly.