You may be wondering, “Do I need a permit to replace my water heater in San Clemente?”
Currently, San Clemente does require a permit for a water heater installation. The good news is we can pull the permit for you, and it will not slow down any work on our end.
Every few years, San Clemente water heater codes change to adopt new installation and safety measures. While designed to increase your overall home safety, these code requirements can result in extra installation charges.
Some customers scoff at the idea of paying for a permit for a water heater replacement, but the fact of the matter is water heaters can be dangerous if not installed correctly. In fact, water heaters cause more property damage than any other home appliance. And if the unit is not installed to code by a licensed professional and causes damage, your home insurance could reject any claims. That’s why we put a premium on safety and doing everything by the book.
Your expert technician will go over an item-by-item checklist of all applicable safety codes needed for your installation prior to any work being completed, or cost to you.
We try to keep this information as up-to-date as possible, but your local installer will be able to answer any specific question you may have.
Local Water Heater & Plumbing Permits – San Clemente, CA
Water Heater Codes Currently Enforced in San Clemente
Approved Location – The CA Plumbing Code Regulations prevent most gas water heaters from being located in bedrooms, bathrooms, or closets (unless sole use). This regulation prevents human contact with the trace amounts of Carbon Monoxide (CO) released from gas water heater vents and the possibility of inhalation accidents. This is presently enforced by San Clemente.
Earthquake Straps – California is in an earthquake zone, and accordingly, there are specific safety regulations in place. Hot water heaters are required to have certified earthquake straps on the top and bottom thirds of the tank. Most inspectors in San Clemente enforce this regulation.
Venting – As gas water heaters warm water, they emit dangerous CO which requires venting for safety. The size of the vent is dependent on the size of the hot water heater. Depending on the venting material, the inspector will require ample clearance from the vent near any flammable or combustible surfaces. Currently San Clemente is enforcing this.
Pans and Drains – For hot water heaters on a built-in platform or an inside location, a water leakage could cause damage to your residence. As a preventive measure, the California Plumbing Code requires a pan under the tank with a drain to the exterior.
Pressure and Temperature Relief Drain (P&T Drain) to the Exterior – The CA Plumbing Code requires the Pressure and Temperature relief drain to be run to the exterior. This is to prevent accidental scalding when the P&T relief is discharging. Presently, it is being enforced by San Clemente.
Dedicated Water Shutoff – This shutoff is required for use with a hot water heater. The shutoff allows you to turn off the water supply to the storage tank, if necessary, while maintaining water supply in the rest of the house. This is enforced by San Clemente.
Grease pack Gas Valve Replacement – Grease pack valves were once common features of water heaters. However, due to a high failure rate, the California Plumbing Code no longer approves their use. We check for this valve when inspecting your hot water heater and advise you to have it changed if we find one. This item is enforced by San Clemente.
Expansion Tanks – For years now, the California Plumbing Code has required require expansion tanks for a ‘closed plumbing system.’ This system has a backflow preventer between the house and water main. Heated water increases by about 2% causing pressure build-up, with a rapid drop in pressure when a faucet is turned on, causing deterioration of the plumbing, fixtures and water heater.
Eventually this can lead to failure of the hot water heater. Expansion tanks are required on closed systems and it is strongly recommended that you install one if you have a closed system. San Clemente does enforce this code.