Portal econet_badging

Badging

We have heard reports of several types of badging issues. Generally speaking this is limited to the Ruud models because they use a different badging application. However its possible to experience a peeling badge on the Rheem models as well.

Peeling at ends

If the issue is with the aluminum label peeling off the plastic plate, the simple solution is to use rivets at the ends to give it a permanent mechanical fastener. However it will depend on what resources you have with you. The idea is to resolve the issue without any return trips if possible.

Option 1: Rivets

1. Remove the badging from the unit as we do not want to drill the badge with the potential for the bit to hit the coil behind it.

2. Using a 1/8" Drill bit about a 1/2" in from the end of the aluminum badge and a 1/2" down from the top of the badge (Slightly above mid point) drill a hole through both the aluminum badge and the plastic back plate.

3. Rivet through the hole ensuring the rivet pull will be behind the plastic. A 1/8" rivet with 1/8" grab is ideal.

4. Reinstall the repaired badging back on to the unit. If the rivet is not drilled above center, it may contact one of the louvers. You will either have to notch or slightly bend the louver out of the way so the rivet will clear it.

5. If you are working on a Ruud unit, you may dress the rivet with a black Sharpie marker

Option 2: Heat

If you do not have a rivet gun, you may attempt to reapply the badge ends back to the plastic. A heat gun, hair dryer, or propane torch held at a safe distance will be required to warm the adhesive and the backing material.

Remove the badging from the unit! Do NOT overheat the badge! Wear gloves!

1. With gloves on, Warm the surface of the plastic and the adhesive on the aluminum badge to about 150 degrees. It does not need to be cooked.

2. Press the aluminum back onto the backing. You may see small droplets of adhesive squeeze out. This is a good indicator that you have gotten the adhesive warm enough. Hold in place

3. Consider the curve. The badge has a sharper curve about 3" in from the end. The aluminum badge is constantly trying to straighten thus pulling away at the ends. With two hands slightly bend the assembly to favor the curve. This is not to say that it needs to be bent to the point of kinking the aluminum, you are simply helping to shape it so it doesn't want to pull away again.

4. Reinstall the badging on the unit.

Option 3: Double Side Tape

If you don't have rivets or a source of heat, a quality double sided tape may help.

If you don't have any of those, contact your distributor or customer service for a new badge.

Broken Tabs

If the issue is the badging has tabs that have broken, its likely you will need to contact your distributor or customer service for a new badge assembly. (Ruud Only)

Obtaining a replacement badge

Customer service may be able to send a new badge directly to the homeowner. Take a picture of the faulty badge and unit rating plate, especially the model and serial number, and send a request for a replacement badge, and a shipping address to: pts.help@rheem.com

You may call customer service for assistance with a replacement badge at 479-648-4900. Have model number, serial number, and a valid shipping address available when requesting a replacement badge.

If you feel the customer is capable and willing to install the new badge, we can ship it directly to the homeowner.