In California, legislation states that all water heaters must be anchored (at minimum) according to Section 507.2 of the Uniform Plumbing Code
Uniform Plumbing Code
Designated as an American National Standard, the Uniform Plumbing Code is a model code developed by the International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials to govern the installation and inspection of plumbing systems as a means of promoting the public's health, safety and welfare.
Do water heaters have to be strapped?
Yes, if you have an FHA loan, the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) requires all water heaters to be strapped. How much does the typical water heater weigh? A residential water heater weighs between 450 to 500 pounds when it is full.
How much clearance do you need for a water heater strap?
At the lowest point, there should be a minimum of four inches clearance from the strapping to the controls. If you live in California and have a larger tank water heater, the state’s Architect’s Office requires that you have a third or even a fourth strap.
What is a water heater strap code?
The water heater strap code varies by state and is a set of mandates regarding how or if a water heater needs to be secured to a wall. The code dictates whether or not you need a strap, how it must be installed, and other specific guidelines. There are several states where you are not required to have a strap on your water heater.
What are the installation requirements for an unlisted water heater?
Listed water heaters shall be installed in accordance with their listings and the manufacturer's installation instructions. Unlisted water heaters shall be installed with a clearance of 12 inches (305 mm) on all sides and rear. Combustible floors under unlisted water heaters shall be protected in an approved manner.
Are water heater straps required in California?
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.).
What states is require hot water heater straps?
In addition to California and Alaska, areas of Nevada, Idaho, Wyoming, Montana, Oregon, Washington and Hawaii also fall under the Uniform Codes' seismic zones 3 and 4, where water heaters are specifically required to be anchored.
Do electric water heaters need to be double strapped?
(1) All water heaters must be strapped, whether gas or electric. (2) Two straps are needed, one in the upper one-third and one in the lower one-third of the fixture. (3) Straps may consist of either plumber's tape (at least 24 gauge) or half-inch-diameter metal conduit.
Does my water heater need straps?
According to California law, all new water heater installations must have these straps as well as all existing ones at the time of property sale. The code specifically requires that water heaters be strapped or anchored to resist horizontal displacement from earthquake motion.
How many straps are required on a water heater in California?
Two metalCalifornia 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.
Can I use plumbers tape to strap water heater?
Use heavy-gauge metal strapping rather than plumbers' tape. 3. Replace all copper and metal piping with flexible natural gas and water line connectors. This is PLUMBERS' TAPE – it is not strong enough to stop water heaters from tipping over.
How many straps are required on a 75 gallon water heater?
3 strapsUse of plumbers tape or EMT conduit is allowed, as long as it is installed per the Guidelines for Earthquake Bracing of Residential Water Heaters, published by the Division of the State Architect. 75 gallon water heaters shall have 3 straps. 100 gallon water heaters shall have 4 straps.
Where does the water heater strap go?
3:035:02How to Strap a Water Heater by GGASHI - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipThe lower strap must be high enough to be over the top of the water heater controls measure the tankMoreThe lower strap must be high enough to be over the top of the water heater controls measure the tank first to position the straps.
How do you secure a hot water heater?
Water Heaters (How to secure them)Secure both the top and the bottom, rather than just the top or just the middle, of the tank.Use heavy-gauge metal strapping rather than plumbers' tape.Replace all copper and metal piping with flexible natural gas and water line connectors.
What states require earthquake straps?
Which States Require Water Heater Seismic Straps?U.S. StateDo You Need Water Heater Seismic Straps?ArkansasAt least two 22-gauge metal straps. One strap on the top 1/3 of the unit and one on the bottom 1/3.CaliforniaAt least two 22-gauge metal straps. One strap on the top 1/3 of the unit and one on the bottom 1/3.48 more rows•Nov 23, 2021
What type of fastener is used for strapping a hot water heater?
Use metal tubing or heavy metal strapping and lag screws and washers to secure the water heater to the wall studs.
How deep should a water heater be?
closet) where leaking could cause damage to underlying wood framing, the water heater must be set in a pan constructed of water tight corrosion resistant material and a minimum of 1-1/2” deep.
What is the minimum energy factor for a water heater?
Electric water heaters are allowed as long as they are an electric heat pump type and have a minimum Energy Factor of 2.80. Documentation from the manufacturer showing the Energy Factor rating shall be provided at the final inspection. Tankless Water Heaters.
How big should a water heater be in the attic?
When located in an attic, the water heater shall be accessible through an opening and passageway at least large as the largest component of the appliance, and not less than 22” by 30”.
Where is the water heater located in a bedroom?
Located in a Bedroom, Bathroom, or Bedroom Closet (CPC 504.1) If located in a bedroom, bathroom, or bedroom closet, the water heater shall be located in a closet provided with a listed self-closing, gasketed door and all combustion air shall be obtained from outdoors. The water heater closet shall not be used for any other purpose.
Where are seismic straps located?
Seismic Straps (CPC 507.2) Water heaters require two seismic straps; one located within the top 1/3 of the water heater unit and one at the bottom 1/3. The bottom strap must be located at least 4" away from the water heater controls. Several seismic strap kits are available commercially; however, metal plumbers tape can be used if it completely ...
Can you use plumbers tape on a water heater?
Several seismic strap kits are available commercially; however, metal plumbers tape can be used if it completely encircles the water heater and is then attached to a structural framing member at each end. Any platform supporting the water heater must be secured to the structure or the slab.
Do I need a permit to replace a water heater?
A plumbing permit is required for the replacement of an existing water heater . Permits are required prior to installation or replacement of water heaters. Following are general requirements for water heater replacements based on the 2019 California Plumbing Code and the 2019 California Energy Efficiency Standards.
Can a water heater fall off during an earthquake?
As you can see, it will have little, to no side-to-side movement in the event of an earthquake. It will also not fall off it’s platform. After an earthquake the water heater also holds available cooking and drinking water in the event of an extended power outage.
Is a water heater strapped?
In the first water heater photo, the water heater is NOT properly strapped and in the event of an earthquake will freely move / shake from side to side. However in the second water heater photo, this water heater, on the other hand, is properly strapped.
Is a water heater safe in California?
Is Your California Water Heater Safe from Earthquakes. Earthquake strapping a water heater is critical in California, where earthquakes are a regular occurrence. From Los Angeles and San Diego, to San Francisco and Sacramento, earthquake damage in homes and businesses can happen without warning, and most of us don’t think about our water heater’s ...
Do electric water heaters need to be attached to a wall?
In California, the law requires that your gas or electric water heater must be properly attached to a wall, so that it will not fall or tilt to mush during an earthquake event and lead to a fire or a flood of your home.
How do You Strap Down a Free Standing Water Heater?
You can buy commercial strapping kits that take the work out of looking for lag screws, spacers, washers, and other components.
Does Your Water Heater Need Seismic Straps?
There are many reasons why the government mandates seismic straps for water heaters in many areas. Before 1991, there was a lot of confusion about the seismic straps and whether water heaters needed them.
Who Needs Seismic Straps on Their Water Heaters?
The American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) is the authority on seismic protection of non-structural components. You can find the ASCE standard under the Minimum Design Loads for Buildings and Other Structures, also known as the ASCE 7.
What is the Code for Strapping a Water Heater?
The code governing the strapping of water heaters is the Uniform Plumbing Code (UPC). According to the UPC, bracing or strapping water heaters is advisable in some locations.
Does FHA Require Water Heater Straps?
The Federal Housing Administration (FHA) provides loans to lenders to help them purchase homes. And to get the loan, the property you intend to buy must meet the FHA requirements, which cover
Conclusion
Seismic braces limit horizontal shaking of non-structural equipment during an earthquake.
Sources
I've been conducting home inspections for 17 years. I'm a licensed Home Inspector, Certified Master Inspector (CMI), and FHA 203k Consultant. I started HomeInspectionInsider.com to help people better understand the home inspection process and answer questions about homeownership and home maintenance.
Strapping Requirements Depend on Location
The IRC mentions seismic bracing for a water heater in Section P2801.8. The regulations are different for the different seismic design categories.
How to Strap an Electric Water Heater
In order to secure your water heater, you will need to install two heavy-gauge metal straps. The lower strap must maintain a distance of 4” from the controls, while the upper strap should sit 9” below the top of the heater.
Risks of Not Strapping as per Code
If your heater is not strapped there are risks for fires, electric shocks, broken water lines, and flooding in the event of an earthquake.
How much clearance do you need for an unlisted water heater?
Unlisted water heaters shall be installed with a clearance of 12 inches (305 mm) on all sides and rear. Combustible floors under unlisted water heaters shall be protected in an approved manner. [NFPA 54:10.27.2.2]
What is the standard for water heaters?
Water heaters deriving heat from fuels or types of energy other than gas shall comply with the standards referenced in Table 501.1 (1), Section 505.3, or Section 505.4. Vents or chimneys for such appliances shall be of approved types. An adequate supply of air for combustion and for adequate ventilation of heater rooms or compartments shall be provided. Each such appliance shall be installed in a location approved by the Authority Having Jurisdiction and local and state fire-prevention agencies.
What is indirect fire water heater?
Indirect-fired water heaters shall be in accordance with the applicable sections of the ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code or shall comply with one of the other applicable standards shown in Table 501.1 (1). Each water heater shall bear a label in accordance with ASME requirements, or an approved testing agency, certifying and attesting that such an appliance has been tested, inspected and meets the requirements of the applicable standards or code.
How high should an appliance be on a roof?
At least 6 feet (1829 mm) of clearance shall be available between any part of the appliance, and the edge of a roof or similar hazard, or rigidly fixed rails, guards, parapets, or other building structures at least 42 inches (1067 mm) in height shall be provided on the exposed side. [NFPA 54:9.4.2.2]
How are appliances guarded against mechanical damage?
Appliances installed in garages, warehouses, or other areas subject to mechanical damage shall be guarded against such damage by being installed behind protective barriers or by being elevated or located out of the normal path of vehicles.
What is a storage type water heater?
Storage-type water heaters and hot water boilers deriving heat from fuels or types of energy other than gas , shall be provided with, in addition to the primary temperature controls, an over-temperature safety protection device that complies with and is installed in accordance with nationally recognized applicable standards for such devices and a combination temperature and pressure-relief valve.
When additional appliances are being connected to a gas piping system, the existing piping shall be checked to determine whether
When additional appliances are being connected to a gas piping system, the existing piping shall be checked to determine whether it has adequate capacity. Where the capacity is inadequate, the existing system shall be enlarged as necessary, or separate gas piping of adequate capacity shall be run from the point of delivery to the appliance. [NFPA 54:9.1.16]
Where do you strap a water heater?
Strapping must take place in the upper 1/3 and lower 1/3 of a tank-type water heater (not a tankless water heater). At the lowest point, there should be a minimum of four inches clearance from the strapping to the controls.
What happens if a water heater moves too much?
If the unit moves too much, cracked or broken water lines can leak, which will result in damage to floors and walls. There’s are even greater damage possibilities that many don’t consider. It’s been discovered that, where water heaters have been near broken water lines, the resulting drop in water pressure in the surrounding area has hindered ...
What zone are earthquake straps required in?
Section 510.5 of the Uniform Plumbing Code requires that earthquake straps be installed in seismic zones 3 and 4. California, Oregon, and Washington are all located in either seismic zones 3 or 4.
How many fires were there in the San Fernando Valley in 1994?
There were as many as 110 fires in the wake of the 6.7-magnitude Northridge earthquake that impacted the San Fernando Valley in 1994. Officials traced the cause of many of these fires to ignited gas resulting from tipped over water heaters.
Can a water heater cause a gas line to rupture?
In addition to these hazards, a shifting or tumbling water heater could cause a gas line to rupture. This creates additional fire concerns. If the water heater is electric, live wires could be exposed if the conduit is separated.
Can an earthquake damage a water heater?
A number of states not only recommend that you have earthquake straps installed on your water heater, but this might be required depending on where you live. An earthquake can cause a water heater ...
How much clearance do you need for an unlisted water heater?
Unlisted water heaters shall be installed with a clearance of 12 inches (305 mm) on all sides and rear. Combustible floors under unlisted water heaters shall be protected in an approved manner. [NFPA 54:10.28.2.2]
What is a storage type water heater?
Storage-type water heaters and hot water boilers deriving heat from fuels or types of energy other than gas , shall be provided with, in addition to the primary temperature controls, an overtemperature safety protection device constructed, listed, and installed in accordance with nationally recognized applicable standards for such devices and a combination temperature and pressure-relief valve.
How are appliances guarded against mechanical damage?
Appliances installed in garages, warehouses, or other areas subject to mechanical damage shall be guarded against such damage by being installed behind protective barriers or by being elevated or located out of the normal path of vehicles.
What is an effective backpressure regulator?
Where air or oxygen under pressure is used in connection with the gas supply, effective means such as a backpressure regulator and relief valve shall be provided to prevent air or oxygen from passing back into the gas piping. Where oxygen is used, installation shall be in accordance with NFPA 51. [NFPA 54:9.1.5]
Where are appliances installed in a garage?
Where appliances are installed within a garage and are enclosed in a separate enclosed space having access only from outside of the garage, such appliances shall be permitted to be installed at floor level, provided the required combustion air is taken from the exterior of the garage. [NFPA 54:9.1.10.3]
How deep should a water heater pan be?
Such pan shall be not less than 1 1 / 2 inches (38 mm) in depth.
When additional appliances are being connected to a gas piping system, the existing piping shall be checked to determine where
Where additional appliances are being connected to a gas piping system, the existing piping shall be checked to determine where it has adequate capacity. Where inadequate, the existing system shall be enlarged as necessary, or separate gas piping of adequate capacity shall be run from the point of delivery to the appliance. [NFPA 54:9.1.16]
