While installing a water heater may be something you can do on your own, there are multiple reasons to hire a professional plumber. For one thing, an experienced technician can make sure everything is handled correctly and put in place in a way that is safe and increases energy efficiency in your home. Another reason is that a professional will be able to ensure everything is up to city code, so you don’t end up violating municipality rules on accident. Keep reading to learn how All Pro Plumbing, Heating, Air & Electrical can help you stay out of trouble and install a water heater up to city code, and contact our San Bernardino HVAC and plumbing experts for water heater repair and installation today.

Reasons to Call a Plumbing & HVAC Pro to Install Your Water Heater Up to City Code

  1. Seismic Strapping: In San Bernardino and throughout much of California, it is important to install your water heater with certified seismic straps, which help keep your water in place in case of an earthquake. These straps are generally located at the bottom and the top of the heater, and are used to protect not only your system but you in case your water heater is damaged during an earthquake.
  2. Temperature & Pressure Relief Valves: Your pressure and temperature, or “T&P” relief drains must run from the exterior of your water heater, per California Plumbing Code. If this component is not in place, people can be scalded by hot water during pressure and temperature discharge.
  3. Water Heater Venting: It is extremely important that the gas from your water heater vents in the right place and in the right direction. If gas is not vented correctly, deadly carbon monoxide could leak into your home or yard, causing major harm and forcing you to face serious consequences from the city.
  4. Location: You can’t just install a water heater anywhere. Water heaters that are installed in unsafe places can lead to accidents. For instance, while it may seem obvious that water heaters cannot go in bedrooms or bathrooms, did you know they also cannot be put in a closet, unless it is a closet designed specifically for a water heater? In many parts of the country, it is common for water heaters to go in the basement. In California, however, most homeowners don’t have basements. While garages are an extremely common place for water heaters, there are still restrictions you must follow under San Bernardino code. For instance, your water heater’s burners and burner-ignition devices must be located at least 18 inches off the ground when located in your garage.
  5. Combustion Air Openings: Every water heater in San Bernardino County must have 2 combustion openings at the top and the bottom of the heater. These openings work together, often with ducts in your home, to make sure gas is being exhausted outside. In San Bernardino, you must make sure these openings are at least 100 sq. inches.
  6. Expansion Tanks: Water heaters must prevent building pressure in the water main, either through an expansion tank or other approved device in San Bernardino County. County code also states that these devices must be installed according to the manufacturer’s instructions, so it’s important to hire a skilled technician who knows exactly what they’re doing when putting one in.
  7. Sediment Traps: Sediment traps are installed downstream of your water heater’s shutoff valve, where they can catch leaks and other spillage. Once again, this component is mandatory in San Bernardino County.

Get the Installation Services You Need, With All Pro

With over 25 years of experience, All Pro has all the plumbing skills you need. Whether you are installing a water heater for the first time or just making sure your current one is up to city code, our experts have the knowledge necessary to make sure your equipment is in tip-top shape. Call All Pro Plumbing, Heating, Air & Electrical today for quality repairs and installations in Ontario and across San Bernardino County.

We are available by phone at (909) 500-8193 or you can click to schedule an appointment online.