PROP.
LINE
12"
Width “W”
Width “W”
12"
Width “W
Footing Option “A” Footing Option “B”
10"
10"
Height “h”
(from top of
footing)
The State of California requires that all water heaters in our area be anchored or strapped to resist move-
ment during an earthquake. This can be accomplished by installing any of the over-the-counter products
especially made for restraining water heaters (example 1) or you can make your own out of a heavy-duty
metal strap material (Example 2).
It is required that at least two restraints are used, with one in the upper one-third and one in the lower
one-third of the water heater. Fasten the anchor or strap to the structure, use a screw not less than 1/4 “
diameter with a minimum penetration of 1 1/2 “ into a wood stud of the wall, with a washer between the
head of the screw and the restraint.
Below are examples of acceptable methods for restraining a water heater.
Example 1
These types of restraints are over-the-
counter products sold at your local
hardware store.
Drill pilots on center line of stud, insert
screws through punched holes in strap.
Use washers.
The lower strap must be a minimum
of 4" above the control unit.
This 18" stand is required for heaters
installed in a garage location.
4" Minimum
Control Unit
Wall
Stud
Wall
Stud
4" Minimum
Control Unit
Example 2
Minimum 22 Gauge metal strap materiall
installed within the top
1 / 3 of the heater
and the bottom 1 / 3 of the heater.
Drill pilots on center line of stud,insert
screws through punched holes in strap.
Use minimum
1 / 4" screws with minimum
1 1 / 2" penetration. Use washers.
The lower strap must be a minimum of
4" above the control unit.
This 18" stand is required for heaters
installed in a garage location.
Note: A permit is required any time a water heater is replaced.
1 Town Square-24601 Jefferson Ave., Murrieta, CA. 92562
STRAPPING REQUIREMENTS
FOR
WATER HEATERS
