Freeloader 135L - Water heater Vulcan - Free user manual and instructions

Product Type	Water Heater
Brand	Vulcan
Model	Freeloader 135L
Capacity	135 Litres
Power Source	Electric
Energy Efficiency Class	B
Dimensions (H x D)	1300 mm x 500 mm
Weight	35 kg
Inner Tank Material	Stainless Steel
Temperature Range	30°C – 75°C
Maximum Pressure	0.8 MPa
Safety Features	Overheat Protection, Pressure Relief Valve
Installation Type	Floor Standing
Control Type	Thermostat with Temperature Dial
Maintenance	Annual Inspection Recommended
Spare Parts Availability	Heating Element, Thermostat, Anode Rod
Warranty	2 Years

Frequently Asked Questions - Freeloader 135L Vulcan

How do I install the Vulcan Freeloader 135L water heater?

Installation must be performed by a qualified professional. Ensure the unit is placed on a level, sturdy floor and connected to a dedicated power supply and proper plumbing. Refer to the manual for detailed steps.

What is the recommended temperature setting for the water heater?

For optimal energy efficiency and safety, set the thermostat between 50°C and 60°C. Higher temperatures increase the risk of scalding and energy consumption.

How often should I perform maintenance on my water heater?

Annual maintenance is recommended. This includes checking the pressure relief valve, inspecting the anode rod, and flushing the tank to remove sediment buildup.

What does the pressure relief valve do?

The pressure relief valve automatically releases excess pressure to prevent the tank from bursting. Test it periodically by lifting the lever; if water flows, it's working correctly.

How can I reduce energy consumption with this water heater?

Lower the temperature setting, insulate the tank and pipes, and install a timer to heat water only during off-peak hours. Regular maintenance also improves efficiency.

What should I do if the water is not heating?

Check the power supply, circuit breaker, and thermostat setting. If the heating element is faulty, it may need replacement. Contact a professional for repairs.

Is it normal to hear popping or cracking sounds from the water heater?

Yes, these sounds are often caused by sediment buildup in the tank. Flushing the tank annually can reduce noise and improve efficiency.

How long does the Freeloader 135L take to heat water?

Recovery time depends on the incoming water temperature and the power of the heating element. Typically, it takes about 2–3 hours to heat a full tank from cold.

What spare parts are available for this model?

Common spare parts include the heating element, thermostat, anode rod, gaskets, and the pressure relief valve. These can be ordered through Vulcan service centers.

Does the water heater have a warranty?

Yes, the Vulcan Freeloader 135L comes with a standard 2-year warranty covering manufacturing defects. Registration may be required for extended coverage.

USER MANUAL Freeloader 135L Vulcan

Vulcan air purifier with laser flares in the background (no visible text or symbols on main subject)

Illustration of a showerhead with white dots and raindrops on a teal background (no text or symbols)

Our special thermostat keeps water at a temperature of 73°C (higher than the 3 star hot water system you may be replacing), meaning you use less hot water for the same length hot shower you're used to enjoying*

• 4 Star energy efficiency
- Made in Australia
- 5 Year Warranty ^†
• Mains Pressure at multiple taps
• 135L and 170L models
• Natural gas or Propane
• Steel jacket and enamelled steel cylinder
• National service back-up

THAT'S VULCAN® VALUE

High quality and performance at an affordable price. Three good reasons why Vulcan is such a popular choice for reliable water heating.

Vulcan is built with the best: Quality materials and proven technology make Vulcan a great choice for reliable water heating.

Vulcan is tough: The Vulcan storage cylinder is made from high strength steel able to withstand varying water and heating cycle pressures.

Vulcan is adaptable: The balanced flue and durable steel jacket make Vulcan gas models easy to install and easy to live with. They can be installed on an approved base against a wall or recessed into a wall cavity.

VULCAN FREELOADER 4 STAR GAS HOT WATER – Product data

		648135 648170
No. of people – Moderate Climate 2-4 3-5
No. of people – Cool Climate 2-3 3-4
Warranty 5 Years
Installation Outdoor Only
Gas Type Natural Gas/Propane
Hourly Gas Consumption Natural Gas	MJ 27 27
Gas Energy Rating		4.3 Stars	4 Stars
Storage Capacity	Litres	135	170
Recovery Rate	Litres/ Hour at 45°C	113	113
Dimensions	A mm	1558	1858
	B mm	422	422
	C mm	502	502
	D mm	988	1213
	E mm	328	403
	F mm	298	298
	G mm	1478	1778
	K mm	473	473
	L mm	208	208
Approx. Weight Empty	kg	59	69
Relief Valve Setting	kPa	1400	1400
ECV Setting #	kPa	120 0	120 0
Max. Water Supply Pressure	kPa
With Expansion Control Valve*		960	960
Without Expansion Control Valve		1120	1120
Water Connections		Rp 34	Rp 34
Gas Connection		Rp 12	Rp 12

Must be installed with the back of the water heater against a wall. Minimum distances from the flue terminal to openings into a building, corners and return walls apply.
† Warranty: 5 years on cylinder, 3 years labour on cylinder. 1 year on parts and labour. For full details contact your nearest Vulcan distributor. Conditions apply. See the
Vulcan warranty set out in the Owner's Guide & Installation Instructions or view at www.vulcan.com.au/warranty.

ECV not supplied with water heater.

* Based on the most common temperature 43°C shower through a 9 litre/minute showerhead mixing with cold water at 10°C Vulcan 4 star 648 Series with thermostat set at 73°C delivers 15-20% more continual shower time than the Vulcan 3 Star 641 Series with thermostat set at 65°C.
® Vulcan is a registered trademark of Rheem Australia Pty Ltd.
^TM Registered trademark of Standards Australia Limited.
Rheem Australia Pty Ltd,
1 Alan St, Rydalmere, NSW 2116 Australia.
Materials and data are subject to change without notice.

The Australian Gas Association

quality ISO 9001

AS 3498 WMKA00153