My electric water heater is in a corner of my home's garage in Dallas, TX. Code requires it to be raised 18" off the floor, so it creates this odd shaped nook in the corner. It currently sits on a framed out box that is built into the walls of the garage.
I'd like to buy a lowboy water heater (35" tall) and build a ~5' tall platform for it to set on to give the garage more unobstructed storage on the floor.
Is there a problem with this? I know the platform would have to support at least 600lbs, but would it violate any code? The T/P valve drains to the outside via a pipe and it still could. The supply and electrical come from the top, so they would essentially not have to move at all.
How close can the top of the heater be to the ceiling? I know I'll need room for the water connections but is there some "minimum ventilation" type distance?
This all seems like a good solution but I've never seen anything like it so I feel like I'm missing something.
Best Answer
The Uniform Plumbing Code has some language regarding placement, the spirit of which seems to require access for "cleaning... lubrication... adjustment" and other types of service.
It doesn't say easy access (in fact you are allowed to place water heaters in attics, but if you do "the passageway... and area adjacent to the appliance must be floored"). I am thinking that if you built a fixed ladder (maybe against the wall to save the space you are elevating it to gain) up to the platform you would be OK. Final word would rest with your AHJ. Always ensure clearances and other installation requirements in the manufacturer's instructions are adhered to, that is all over the code.
UPC 504.3.1- The clearances shall not be such as to interfere with... accessibility for servicing.
UPC 505.1- Each such appliance shall be installed in a location approved by the Authority Having Jurisdiction...
UPC 507.26 Accessibility For Service- Appliance shall be located... so as to permit access to the appliance.