You may be wondering, “Do I need a permit to replace my water heater in Olympia?”
Currently, Olympia does requires 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, Olympia water heater codes change to adopt new installation and safety measures. While intended 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.
You may be wondering, “Do I need a permit to replace my water heater in Half Moon Bay?”
Currently, Half Moon Bay does require a permit for water heater installations. The good news is we can pull it for you, and it will not slow down any work on our end.
Every few years, Half Moon Bay water heater codes change to adopt new installation and safety measures. While intended 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 Half Moon Bay installer will be able to answer any specific question you may have.
Earthquake Straps: Given that Washington is a known earthquake zone, it is imperative that water heaters are tied down with approved earthquake straps, with one strap on the upper 1/3 of the water heater and 2nd strap on the lower 1/3 of the tank. Inspectors of Olympia definitely aim to enforce this regulation.
Approved Location: It is definitely not permitted to install gas water heaters inside bedrooms, closets or bathrooms unless they are direct vent or power-direct vent water heaters. Folks tend to spend a majority of time in these areas and therefore are at risk of potential carbon monoxide poisoning. In Olympia, this item is rigorously enforced.
Bonding: Gas and water pipes have to be bound with wire and clamps and thus grounded. When pipes are next to electrical wires, it is possible that the pipes can be become dangerously energized as a result of failing to ground your pipes. This is outlined in the Electrical Code and is generally enforced in Olympia.
Expansion Tanks: An expansion tank is required if a plumbing system is closed. This means the backflow, which normally runs between the house and the main water supply, is blocked. However, when water is heated, it expands, causing a rise in water pressure. The increased pressure must dissipate. If there is nowhere for the pressure to go, it places undue stress and strain on your water heater and your home’s plumbing system. Increased pressure will shorten the life of your water heater. However, expansion tanks provide relief from this excess water pressure and, therefore, Olympia’s inspectors do tend to enforce their installation.
Venting: Carbon monoxide is one of the by-products of the functioning of most water heaters. Thus, heaters must be sufficiently vented, with vents comprised of non-flammable materials, to avoid health risks to homeowners.
Pans and Drains: It is sometimes the case that water heaters are installed on platforms or in internal areas, where spills can potentially cause damage to the home. In these situations, it is compulsory, according to the Code, that pans, with drain lines, are put underneath the heaters.
Pressure Regulating Valves: Extreme water pressure, measured by a PSI higher than 80, is hazardous to the successful and prolonged functioning of your plumbing and water heater. Thus, the Code maintains that pressure regulating valves must be installed in such cases where the pressure is greater than 80 PSI. We will measure your PSI and inform you of the appropriate action to take.
Greasepack Gas Valve Replacement: Given the tendency of gas valves of the greasepack kind to function incorrectly, we will have to replace any that you have.
Sediment Traps: Olympia’s inspectors usually check to make sure that you have a sediment trap installed on your gas line in order to stop sediment from reaching the combustion chamber.
Dedicated Water Shutoff: Installing a shutoff, dedicated only to the water heater, means that you can turn off your heater and simultaneously access your home’s normal supply of water. This part of the Plumbing Code is usually enforced in Olympia.
Pipe Insulation: It is mandatory that pipes in unconditioned spaces be covered with pipe insulation.
With more than two decades experience, we have installed countless water heaters in single-family homes, condos, apartments, mobile homes and townhouses all over Olympia. All our skilled-technicians are background-checked, thoroughly experienced and trained to efficiently and safely install your new water heater.
Whether you’re replacing a broken, old unit, being proactive and installing a new model, or switching to a tankless water heater, our skilled technicians can answer any of your questions and, if you call by noon, get your hot water heater installed the same day you call us.
Most importantly, our technicians are local to the area, which means they are up-to-date on all local plumbing codes, safety regulations and regional installation trends.
We install Rheem water heaters, and are an official service provider for Olympia, Washington.
We look forward to helping you. Please keep in mind, while we can quote you a starting price over the phone, we are not able to give a final price until a technician is at your home and can see your unique setup. If you’re happy with the final price, your technician will get to work immediately. But due to this uncertainty, our appointments are no cost and no obligation.
Call us or fill out the form below to receive more information about a water heater replacement or installation in Olympia.
Water heaters are one of the hardest-working appliances in your home, heating and storing hot water for your use. They’re built to last, but if yours starts leaking or stops producing hot water, your water heater may need repairs or service.
Typically, a water heater comes with a warranty anywhere from 5-15 years on parts. For this reason, if you start experiencing issues, you should find the model & serial numbers of your water heater to find out if it is still under warranty. Our service technicians are local to Olympia and are familiar with most regional heater applications, brands and models.
It’s important to note, if your existing model is more than 10 years old, it’s probably nearing its last legs. Considering the cost of labor, it might be cheaper in the long run to just replace the water heater.
In Olympia, common repairs and maintenance our technicians experience with residential water heaters include:
Fast Water Heater Company frequently partners with utility companies around Olympia to offer savings on more energy efficient water heating solutions, in the form of rebates.
These rebates are great because the water heaters utilize energy more efficiently, and save you money as a result.
Customers in Southern Washington may also be eligible for Energy Trust of Oregon rebates. Ask your customer service representative if you qualify for the rebates in your area.
