H. Unsecured Water Heater
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III. Structural Problems and Strengthening
Methods H. Unsecured Water Heater |
Water heaters should be braced to the wall studs to prevent
overturning. When a water heater is located near a wall, it can
be strapped to the studs by using electrical conduit tubing. The
tubing is connected to the "plumber's tape" straps that
encircle the water heater.
Typical Cost: $75 per water heater
When a water heater is not near a wall, structural studs must be
added around it. The new studs need to be attached to structural
members above and below. Be sure to follow the local building
code and maintain the required fire safety clearance between the
water heater and the wood studs (usually about 6").