Slide 11 of 15
Notes:
- This figure shows an approved pre-packaged system
- Securing water heaters
- In typical details for smaller water heaters:
- Plumber’s tape is commonly wrapped around the top and base area of the water heater.
- Struts are attached to the plumber’s tape and then anchored into the wall framing using lag screws.
- EMT conduit works well as a strut. The ends can be flattened and drilled to attach the lag screw or bolt.
- Note to instructor: Sample details in the Appendix.
- Critical strapping measures
- Plumber’s tape or strap is wrapped all the way around the water heater.
- Lag screws are anchored into a stud. The stud must be one that is continuous from the sill plate to the top plate.
- Struts are used to brace the water heater to straight sections of walls. Plumber’s tape only works in tension and has no strength to resist compression.
- Lastly, gas and water connectors must be replaced with flexible connectors and the flue should be braced. Flexible connections allow the water heater to move several inches without breaking.
- Brace Limitations
- Braced water heater still make some movements during an earthquake because of the slack and stretching of the straps.
- Even if the water heater moves only a small distance, the connectors may break if the connections into the water heater are rigid.
- Break can cause the water to flood the area or cause a gas leak.
