Professional consultant and writer on structural, electrical, plumbing, code and other building defects with over 40 years experience as a general contractor, inspector and instructor. A house can be over a hundred years old and still be beautiful and charming. New wate. Humming, popping, cracking, sizzling, ticking, gurgling and hissing noises occur for different reasons. The Uniform Plumbing Code is the national standard, but its also important to follow all state and local codes. Be assured the reliable Wobble Wedges can hold up to 2,000 pounds of weight. Airstream Trailer & Motorhome Owners Community, Currently Active Users Viewing This Thread: 1. Leaning Water Heaters Can Be A Safety Concern: Check The Platform. Having a properly plumbed pan under the water heater generally reduces damage to a water heater platform. RV Propane Tank Covers: Do You Really Need Them? You could pour a small pad of concrete in a form, it would be fairly easy to make one 4" tall on the downhill side and 3" tall on the uphill side. If you'd like to support the site, please allow ads. Can I just shim the downhill side, or should I make some sort of low platform? If I cycle the vacuum hose on and off the motor several time I can get it to light the burner. I'm looking for advice on purchasing a new water heater. It is Rheem that is about ten years old. Website operating Airstream trademark used under license to Social Knowledge LLC. Camping Chair From Trippy Outdoor Is Rugged, Innov What Does An RV Propane Gas Leak Smell Like? We get it, but (1) terrylove.com can't live without ads, and (2) ad blockers can cause issues with videos and comments. Since moisture damage to the water heater platform is one of the primary reasons for a leaning water heater, it just makes good sense to check for evidence of mold and mildew in the area. According to the Uniform Plumbing Code, a natural gas tank water heater should be installed at least 18 inches from the ground. There only a fewdollars. DoItYourself.com, founded in 1995, is the leading independent Copyright How To Keep Your Dog Cool While RVing This Summer, Powered by vBulletin Version 3.8.8 Beta 1, Furnaces, Heaters, Fireplaces & Air Conditioning, Airstream Restoration, Repair & Parts Forums, Tank Level Sensor - Just Learned Something. I was wondering what most guys use to level their heaters. I'm installing a new water heater on a floor sloped significantly toward a nearby floor drain. If I pull the vacuum hose off of the motor and put it back on the pilot light ignites and I can hear it still try to spark it (normal?). suggestions. ***SHIPPING NOTICE: I recently installed a new 40 gallon water heater. And holding it up crooked? Is there any height adjustment on the feet? So dont let your hot water heater issues get the best of you, save time and money by selecting the Wobble Wedge today. If no, then it's possible that when you add the weight of the water to it, it will level out. Any thoughts? Each gallon of water in the tank weighs 8 pounds.it is done all the time in dirt cellars . That is enough to stabilize and support any hot water heater tank at total capacity. I was more sloped in my parking space. This website is not affiliated with or endorsed by the Airstream, Inc. or any of its affiliates. If any particular ad is your REASON for blocking ads, please let us know. All rights reserved. By logging into your account, you agree to our. Airstream is a registered trademark of Airstream Inc. All rights reserved. The Fora platform includes forum software by XenForo, VerticalScope Inc., 111 Peter Street, Suite 600, Toronto, Ontario, M5V 2H1, Canada. Go look at your water heater and see if it is set at a safe temperature. The stand it's on it sturdy and level, and it's exactly where the old one was. I recently had to replace our gas water heater since the bottom rusted out. When the water heater is just a little out of plumb, many owners will just monitor the water heater and if the situation gets worse, then they fix it. So depending on the type of hot water heater you have, from a 6-gallon tank that weighs 76 pounds up to a 115-gallon tank that weighs 1,183 pounds, there is no job the Wobble Wedge cant support. Made proudly in the United States, the patented Wobble Wedge comes in all shapes, sizes, materials, colors, and numerous customizable options that make it perfect for any job. Otherwise the burner could heat the heat exchanger or whatever unevenly. What's the best way to level the water heater? When it comes to refrigerators, being level has everything to do with how the cooling functions. You should also place a drip tray under the unit to catch any water that leaks out of the tank, including from the pressure release valve. Currently about 4 degree incline wondering if that could prevent it from lighting?? It stays lit until the water is completely heated so I wouldn't think it's the themocoupler. Composite door shims worth just fine. Contractor Talk - Professional Construction and Remodeling Forum. These requirements can be complicated and difficult to understand for many homeowners. problems contact webmaster@doityourself.com. Is yours correct? 2022 Pratt Plumbing. New water heater - Vent pipe seems not to be plumb ? It may not display this or other websites correctly. When installing an indoor water heater, its still a good idea to raise it off the floor if the area floods (especially in a basement). Another warning sign may be a musty or moldy odor. for the water, equals about 570 lbs. Have them look at it, it is a warranty issue. Does Insurance cover it? You need to do some exploring to find out why it's not level when the platform and pan are. No need to complicate it any further. To keep it "high and dry", my water heater is sitting on bricks on the concrete basement floor, and not too far from a sump and pump. If the connections are hard-piped, then leaning water heater may put undue stress on the water pipes. I think that most gas water heaters have feet that hold the bottom off the floor. Our #1 goal is to provide accurate and thourough information about home condition, home safety, real estate transactions and more. Then you have a big mess. If you are replacing the water heater or rebuilding the platform, remember to put a pan under the water heater. A $15 to $40 valve can prevent an explosion of the water heater. Any suggestions? Plus, if you decide to install a new tank water heater at your home (which we dont generally recommend), you should be aware of codes for ground clearance. Simple rules to follow when strapping your water heater. All information is provided "AS IS." Concrete floors are designed to slope toward a drain to prevent flooding in your building. Our superior quality and outstanding customer service guarantee we stand by our product every step of the way. David Jones - Consultant, General Contractor, Inspector. You must log in or register to reply here. Its also important to note that this measurement doesnt necessarily start at the bottom of the unit. FREE SHIPPING WITHIN THE CONTINENTAL US ON ORDERS OF $50 OR MORE*** Dismiss. Questions of a Do It Yourself nature should be It was perfectly level before I filled it up, but now it's way off (you can notice it by just looking at it). I'm sure he has scrap copper pipe for free. Doug, I would say not to shim it, I feel it could cause the glass lining to break or cause you a problem. Use as many as necessary. The pilot light comes on, but the burner won't. For a better experience, please enable JavaScript in your browser before proceeding. I know gas/propane etc. Or a stone. This could stress the plumbing joints and ultimately cause a leak. The power vent runs most of the time. You are using an out of date browser. The clearance is to prevent fires or explosions if a flammable liquid (such as gasoline or motor oil) spills on the garage floor. I just use a few nailing plates myself. There are no legs on the heaterjust a flat metal base. Mice and a few structural engineers might. In some of our articles we provide links to products that may be beneficial given the subject matter of the content. The water heater begins running but no glow from the ignitor. Did you fill it with water yet? The weight of a 50 gallonwater heater; approximately 150 lbs. to this site, and use it for non-commercial use subject to our terms of use. You can stack and combine Wobble Wedges to get the perfect height. There has to be something wrong or dented or junk stuck to the bottom to be throwing it off by ten degrees. Should mold or mildew be suspected and its in the wall, then it may also have penetrated any insulation in the wall. They will not swell or rot, like wooden shims, when placed under a hot water heater tank and exposed to excess moisture or flooding. I'm not sure how it got this way after filling it up. Would this affect the pilot light? Instead, the requirement is 18 inches of clearance between the pilot light or lighting mechanism. I need a way to prevent the 400 pounds of water pushing down over time from damaging the base of the heater. Again, be sure to follow all applicable codes, including state and local, and the manufacturers installation instructions. It only has to be about an inch or so thick. Whether you own an under-the-sink, tank, or tankless, also known as on demand hot water heater, we have you covered. If he's stuck in his ways, I guess it doesn't matter what you show him. With just one gallon of water weighing eight pounds, its easy to see why these appliances need to be stabilized. for the tank and 420 lbs. The 18-inch ground clearance is just one of many important codes and best practices for water heater installation. If the wall area has possible mold evidence, then if possible, check on the other side of the wall for similar evidence and if the water heater is on the second floor, then check the ceiling area under it. Boy, I don't think so. you could sell the copper and still have money left over for shim. I moved the rv to dump and when I settled in again I couldn't get the pilot to stay lit for the water heater. Its not to avoid impact by a garage or other items, as some people may think. Currently parked in my sisters driveway, hot water heater wont light. JavaScript is disabled. Materials like wood or composite are easily penetrated by water and not only warp over time but can affect the stability of your structure. Flatten the ears of course. Thank you for all of your suggestions. Was fine last week before i moved it. Maybe he doesn't want to spend money on shims. Something else is wrong. Plumbing/water heater- spots recently on ceiling downstairs, 2 story house. I have an existing Electric water heater that needs replaced. as the water is quite heavy and can cause the heater to topple over. A leaning water heater is not a tourist attraction, but can be a safety concern. Plumbing Forum, Professional & DIY Advice. The easiest way to do this is by purchasing a water heater stand, which should be strong enough to hold the tank when its filled with water. If the water heater supply lines / connections are flexible tubing, then there is probably less stress. View our Privacy Policy here. Going strong since 1985, weve been helping professionals and business owners ensure their projects are done right and on time. Proud to be one of Amarillos Oldest Plumbing Service Companies. For the best gas water heater installation in the Amarillo, TX area, trust the team at Pratt Plumbing. I need a way to prevent the 400 pounds of water pushing down over time from damaging the base of the heater. Does your health insurance travel with you? Come join the discussion about the industry, trades, safety, projects, finishing, tools, machinery, styles, scales, reviews, accessories, classifieds, and more! A forum community dedicated to professional construction and remodeling contractors. Have you ever walked into someones garage and noticed their water heater was raised high off the ground? (Read more on mold and mildew). In addition, plumbing issues with hot water heaters can lead to mold and mildew, which can become costly problems. We might be able to do something about it. Articles for every homeowner, buyer or agent who wants to know whats major, whats minor and what is just normal when it comes to your home. Why does the water heater need to be 18 inches off the ground? When the water cools (either from time or use) to where it should ignite, it doesn't. Condensation??? There won't be any heat there ,you just want something strong. Most hot water heaters are installed in basements, garages, kitchens, and restaurants with intentionally unlevel flooring. I am a master plumber for a living and shim every water heater I install in basements with composite shims. When a water heater leaks and the water penetrates the wooden platform, the wood weakens, especially if this condition goes on for a long period of time. While checking the water heater, remember to look at the water connections. We receive a small commission if you choose to purchase a product or service after following one of our affiliate links but the price is the same for you. Can you get rid of mold yourself? Home Plumbing Water Heater Leaning Water Heaters Can Be A Safety Concern: Check The Platform. All Rights Reserved. What is considered a safe temperature for your water heater to be set at. Durable Wobble Wedge plastic shims are not susceptible to water damage. For safety purposes be sure to Hardly anyone notices a gap at the bottom of a garage door. Homeowners often correct and repair small mold and mildew areas themselves, but at times will hire a professional to investigate and correct any problems. Moisture stains and dark discolorations on the wall or platform may be a possible warning sign. I was out 2 weeks ago with my 1987 345. When its not, Wobble Wedge plastic shims can ensure your hot water heater works properly and help you avoid costly repairs long term. Are there legal considerations? Plumbing, Piping, Water Heating, Wells, Air & Water Filtration and Conditioning, Gas Water Heater - residential vs comercial, Slow bathroom faucet with nozzle that can't be removed and cleaned, How to go about the diagnosis of partial partial power outage, Reinforcing porch for 3 person porch swing, Surface ignitor won't light automatically. No problem leveling, you can use some sheet metal pieces to level, or even large flat washers . Any suggestions would be greatly appreciatedThanks. Incorrect installation can lead to the water heater malfunctioning or causing a hazard such as a fire. If it is leaning then probably one of the feet has collapsed. JavaScript is disabled. If I turn the ignitor off and then back on manually, it DOES beginning glowing, and it fires up. They are engineered to sit flat. Water heater pans provide protection for the floor but need to have a proper drain hooked to them. For a better experience, please enable JavaScript in your browser before proceeding. Wobble Wedge plastic shims are a highly versatile tool with superior functionality that helps you get the job done faster. Water Heater Calcium Deposits -- What to do? I use smashed copper..i smash it into a wedgeit has never collapsed when the heater fills up.I don't smash multiple pieces and stack them.that would take too much timeI spend probably 3 minutes leveling it.1/3 of the time its just fine w/o any shims. If you install an electric water heater or a gas water heater with a sealed combustion chamber, this requirement may not apply to you. Basically the two main causes for water heaters to lean, is that the platform had water damage and is no longer as strong as it was, or a larger water heater was put on a platform built for a smaller water heater. BuyersAsk is owned by an Engineer, Doctor and Home Inspector/Contractor. I would definitely try to straighten it up if it off noticeable. I have a Richmond Powervent gas water heater. To schedule an appointment, call us today at (806) 373-7866. You are using an out of date browser. Dust Storm Safety: What To Do If You're Camping Or Review: Jackery Explorer 2000 Pro - Portable Power Auburn RV Park at Leisure Time Campground. It won't break the lining, shove something under it, all that stuff on the bottom is simple sheet metal. For a better experience, please enable JavaScript in your browser before proceeding. The first two days the pilot for the water heater lit and heated my water. are supposed to. Then you wouldn't ahve to worry about it ever getting wet and rotting. To level the heater, the "downhill" edge needs to be raised about 1". However, leaning hot water heaters can be a safety concern and do long-term damage to your property. You can buy stepped wedges at most hardware stores designed just for that purpose. 1995-2022 MH Sub I, LLC dba Internet Brands. If the platform is badly damaged, then rebuilding the platform is best. In addition, Wobble Wedge interlocking ridges wont slip apart once underweight. Put a black iron nipple under the low spot. Do You Need A Permit To Install Or Replace An Existing Water Heater? It has a hot surface ignitor. If the platform is level and the pan is level then the big question is why isn't the water heater level? Gas tank water heaters installed indoors do not need to be 18 inches off the ground, at least according to national codes. Try disconnecting the supply lines and see if it sits level then. submitted to our "DoItYourself.com Community Forums". For your hot water heater to work correctly, you dont want it rocking, leaning, or wobbling. It looks like you're using an ad blocker. I have never heard it would affect the lighting of the pilot light. Make a square or round frame and pour it full of self leveling compound and sit the water heater on top of that. Are you flexible lines too stiff? I don't think that most electric water heaters have feet. Thanks. Whether youre a professional plumber or capable DIYer, installing a hot water heater takes patience and craftsmanship. You may freely link maybe he don't know what a composite shim is..have you ever shown him? home improvement and repair website. You could shim it and then squirt a little sprayfoam under it to stabilize it. Try a piece of 3/4" plywood cut to the shape of the tank and shim the plywood. Use Wobble Wedges to solve unlevel flooring below your hot water heater tank and ease needless stress on plumbing and joints. Water Heater Noises: Which Ones Are Serious? We welcome your comments and JavaScript is disabled. Thats why its better to leave water heater installation to qualified professionals. It might look strange, but its actually a safety precaution. I am going to use composite shims. And with it being gas, well do I need to say more. First, use a carpenters level to check the sides of the hot water heater and ensure its straight. No matter what type of building, floors are rarely perfectly level. And to deal with your sloping floor, just try different combinations of bricks or patio blocks of various dimensions turned one way or another at three points under your heater until it is standing straight! Tall Texan RV Park Is A Must-Visit In Colorado. I don't think your water heater requires level to light. How do you recognize mold and get rid of it? Affordable RVing Solutions That Can Save You Money. Generally they are always on a basement floor that has some pitch. If the basic platform structure appears sound and only the plywood sheeting has sagged, then laying a stronger (thicker piece) of new plywood over the old may provide the needed support for the water heater. It may not display this or other websites correctly. Add a piece of plywood on top of existing platform? With all this weight, the platform may sag or the legs of the water heater sinks into the wood or drywall, and the water heater is no longer plumb, it leans. You must log in or register to reply here. Vent Connections / Carbon Monoxide Poison, Water Heater Vent Clearance to Wood or Combustionable Materials: 1 inch or 6 inches, Mold In A Home: Getting Rid Of It, Insurance and Key Facts, Strapping of Water Heaters for Earthquakes, How To Get Rid Of Mold In A House, Plus Legal Requirements, T & P Valve Missing On a Water Heater is Major Safety Hazard, Gaps At Bottom of Garage Door, Causes and When Serious, The "Painted Ladies" Are Over 100 Years Old and Still Beautiful.
does an electric water heater need to be level