The State of California requires that all water heaters must be strapped to resist motion during an earthquake. All water heaters must be strapped in at least two locations; the upper one-third of the unit and the lower one-third. The lower strap must be a minimum of 4″ above the water heater control unit.
Do all water heaters need to be strapped in California?
California Plumbing Code Section 507.2 requires that all water heaters shall be supported and strapped to prevent movement during an earthquake. Two metal straps, not less than 22 gauge, nor less than 5/8-inch wide shall be used.
How do you secure a free standing water heater?
Secure your water heater.
There should be very little space between the water heater and the wall. Wrap the heavy-gauge metal strapping 1½ times around the tank. Secure this strapping to the wall studs or the wood block using several 1/4″ x 3″ or longer lag screws with oversized washers.
Why are water heaters strapped?
Answer: Since 1982, the Uniform Plumbing Code has mandated seismic safety straps for most water heaters. The purpose of this requirement is to prevent fire, explosion or water damage if a water heater should topple during an earthquake.
Do small water heaters need to be strapped?
The State of California requires that all water heaters must be strapped to resist motion during an earthquake. This may be accomplished by installing an over the counter “water heater restraint” kit approved by the Office of State Architect (O.S.A.).
Can you shower without a water heater?
A kettle bath is an easy way to get yourself washed without having to brave a cold shower. You should start by filling the bath with a few inches of cold water and then top it up with a kettle full of boiling water to take the edge off the cold.
Can a water heater touch the wall?
water heater can sit against wall, but this can restrict air flow so keep stuff away from gas water heater.
How is a water heater supposed to be strapped?
Wrap the heavy-gauge metal strapping 1-1/2 times around the tank. Start by placing the strapping at the back of the tank. Bring it to the front and then take it back to the wall. Secure this strapping to the wall studs or the wood block using several 1/4-inch x 3-inch or longer lag screws with oversized washers.
What is the code for water heater straps?
UPC requires water heaters in seismic zones 3 and 4 to be anchored or strapped to resist horizontal displacement due to earthquake motion. The code specifies that strapping must be installed at two locations, within both upper third and lower third of the unit’s vertical dimension.
How much clearance do you need around a water heater?
Water heaters must be surrounded by a certain amount of clearance, or air space, to function properly and safely. A clearance area of 12 inches is required on all sides of a hot water heater. A certain amount of airflow is also required for proper combustion and ventilation.
How do you anchor a water heater?
Place tape around tank and place bolt with washer through the nearest hole in the end of the tape, place a washer and nut on the bolt and tighten. The tape should be tight. If the tape is not tight, remove the bolt, place it through the next adjacent 1/4” hole and tighten.
Can a water heater sit on wood?
Yes, a gas water heater can sit on the wood. but it’s not advisable to sit on it. Should the tank develop a leak, the water will run down the wood, and if this goes for a prolonged period, it will weaken the wood.
