Does an electric water heater require earthquake straps

[dnasser (David Nasser)]

This would be for a California residence.

David

[jpope (Jeffrey Pope, CMI, CHI, CPI, ICC)]

In CA, absolutely. Not only does it have to be strapped, but it has to be strapped in accordance to the latest standards, regardless of the age of the heater.

California Health and Safety Code Section 19211 states that all new and replacement water heaters, and all existing residential water heaters, shall be braced, anchored, or strapped to resist falling or horizontal displacement due to earthquake motion. At a minimum, any water heater shall be secured in accordance with the California Plumbing Code, or modifications made thereto by a city, county, or city and county pursuant to Section 17958.5.

[dmcmullen (David A. McMullen)]

Would this also apply to the tankless water heaters that are mounted directly to the wall?

David

[jpope (Jeffrey Pope, CMI, CHI, CPI, ICC)]

This only applies to tank-type heaters.

[dnasser (David Nasser)]

@jpope

In CA, absolutely. Not only does it have to be strapped, but it has to be strapped in accordance to the latest standards, regardless of the age of the heater.

California Health and Safety Code Section 19211 states that all new and replacement water heaters, and all existing residential water heaters, shall be braced, anchored, or strapped to resist falling or horizontal displacement due to earthquake motion. At a minimum, any water heater shall be secured in accordance with the California Plumbing Code, or modifications made thereto by a city, county, or city and county pursuant to Section 17958.5.

Thanks Jeff.