Section 510.5 of the Uniform Plumbing Code requires that earthquake straps be installed in seismic zones 3 and 4. California, Oregon, and Washington are all located in either seismic zones 3 or 4. According to California law, all new water heater installations must have these straps as well as all existing ones at the time of property sale.
The code specifically requires that water heaters be strapped or anchored to resist horizontal displacement from earthquake motion. Strapping must take place in the upper 1/3 and lower 1/3 of a tank-type water heater (not a tankless water heater). At the lowest point, there should be a minimum of four inches clearance from the strapping to the controls.
If you live in California and have a larger tank water heater, the state’s Architect’s Office requires that you have a third or even a fourth strap. There may be additional requirements imposed by state, city, or county regulators, so you’ll need to check with your building department or water heater expert to ensure you’re compliant.
No one likes to think that the “big one” is going to happen in their area, but it sure doesn’t hurt to be prepared. Not only do you want to protect your property, but taking these precautions might be required by law.
If you’d like to learn more about earthquake straps for your home’s water heater, contact Fast Water Heater. We’ll answer your questions and provide you with a fast estimate to get the work done by one of our friendly and qualified technicians.