Fuel-Fired Storage Tank Water Heater

Verify current plumbing infrastructure is sufficient to support the installation(s) and is leak-free

Select a system that:

is ENERGY STAR^® certified, equivalent, or better

includes a low nitrogen oxide burner

fits in the installation space with required clearances

provides sufficient hot water for the home and occupants

Install appliance where it is protected from freezing and accessible for service

Install water heater in compliance with applicable code (e.g., IRC, NFPA 31, NFPA 54) and manufacturer specifications

If conflict exists between code and manufacturer specifications, apply the more restrictive requirement

Provide a level working space not less than 30" in length and 30" in width in front of the control side of the appliance

Install appliance and plumbing to allow for inspection, maintenance, and replacement of the appliance and its components, without disturbing other installed equipment, controls, piping, and components, other than what requires repair/replacement

Ensure that anode rod is accessible for replacement

Install fuel supply components per NFPA 31 (for oil) and NFPA 54 (for gas) and manufacturer specifications

If conflict exists between code and manufacturer specifications, apply the more restrictive requirement

Install an emergency fuel cut-off switch within reach of the water heater

If appliance is installed in or above conditioned space or in a location where water damage could occur, install a drain pan according to the requirements of the IRC

Drain pan to the exterior of the building

Install a separate water cut-off valve for both the hot and cold water lines

Install an expansion tank anytime a storage water heater is supplied with cold water that passes through a check valve, pressure reducing valve or backflow preventer

Connect the tank to the cold water supply line at a point that is downstream of all check valves, pressure reducing valves and backflow preventers

Size thermal expansion tanks in accordance with the tank manufacturer's instructions and applicable code (e.g., IRC, IBC)

Install a Temperature and Pressure (TandP) relief valve per the IRC and manufacturer specifications

Pipe the valve to within 6" of the floor or drain pan or to the outdoors and must terminate in an observable location

Select piping material based on IRC requirements

Install dielectric unions when connecting copper to galvanized steel piping in accordance with the IRC and manufacturer specifications

Install heat traps on the inlet and outlet piping where not provided by manufacturer

Set discharge temperature to not exceed 120 degrees or as prescribed by local code

Permanently remove equipment from job site and recycle or dispose of removed equipment and refrigerant in accordance with local and federal law (e.g., EPA Section 608 of Clean Air Act of 1990)

Permanently decommission old equipment

Provide occupants/owners with user's manual, warranty information, installation instructions, and installer contact information