Installing Water Heater Straps

Manufacturers of water heater straps are obligated to provide clear instructions regarding strapping instructions with seismic straps included in every sold unit.

Installing water heater straps. The bottom strap must be at least 4 inches above the water heater s controls. Massachusetts uniform state plumbing code. The state s architects need to come up with overall installation and strapping instructions which include basic details exhibiting the minimum standards for the proper application of water heater strapping. Locate the wall studs closest to the strap measurement and drill pilot holes.

Literally can be done in minutes. But the method should be meet with the water heater code with the procedures completely depend to individual to complete the installation. 1 close the drain valve. However there are no installation standards for water heater straps method.

Entire water heater type should be strapped whether it is electric or gas. 2 turn the water back on at the main shutoff and open the cold water valve to the water heater leave it open. Install bracing between the water heater and the wall if tightening the restraint straps will cause the water heater to lean. Locate the wall studs closest to the strap measurement and drill pilot holes.

Install the metal bracket supplied with the kit or a length of 2 by 4. The title is self explanatory. One strap within the top 1 3 of the unit and the second strap within the bottom 1 3. Earthquake straps areas prone to earthquakes and some that are not will require the water heater to be strapped in place to prevent damage during a quake.

3 turn on a nearby hot water faucet until water. There are basic effective water heater straps such as. The straps must be secured with screws at least 1 4 x 3 long and penetrate at least 1 5 into the wall studs.