Question

The required lower strapping for a water heater in Seismic Design Categories D∘, D1, and D2 Shall be located a minimum of ________________ inches above the controls

Answer 1

The solution that i am giving is based on california plumping code 2016. It states that:

Water heaters shall be anchored or strapped to resist horizontal displacement due to earthquake motion. Strapping shall be at points within the upper one third (1/3) and lower one-third (1/3) of its vertical dimensions. At the lower point, a minimum distance of four (4) inches (102 mm) shall be maintained above the controls with the strapping.

Therefore you may provde a minimum of 4 inches above the controls.

WHY?

If not properly braced, water heaters can topple during an earthquake and may cause:

• Broken gas lines and gas leaks
• Fires causing major damage to homes
• Broken water lines and flooding

Hope this helps.