14 Installing the Water Heater
3.1 Choosing an Installation Location
When choosing an installation location, you must ensure that
the location provides adequate clearance for the water heater,
adequate venting and drainage options, and sufficient access to
gas, water, and electrical supplies. Carefully consider the following
factors when choosing an installation location:
About Water Quality
Proper maintenance of the water heater is required to ensure
that your water meets EPA quality standards. The following table
shows the maximum contaminant levels allowed, based on the
EPA National Secondary Drinking Water Regulations (40 CFR Part
143.3). If you suspect that your water is contaminated in any way,
discontinue use of the water heater and contact an authorized
technician or licensed professional.
Contaminant Maximum Allowable Level
Total Hardness Up to 200 mg/l (12 grains/gallon)
Aluminum 0.05 to 0.2 mg/l
Chloride Up to 250 mg/l
Copper Up to 1.0 mg/l
Iron Up to 0.3 mg/l
Manganese Up to 0.05 mg/l
pH 6.5 to 8.5
Sulfate Up to 250 mg/l
Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) Up to 500 mg/l
Zinc Up to 5 mg/l
Chlorine Up to 4 mg/l
Access to utilities
Water – the installation location should be near where the
domestic water supply enters the building.
Gas – the installation location should be near where the gas
supply enters the building.
Electricity – the installation location should be near where the
electrical supply enters the building.
Adequate drainage
The water heater produces a significant amount of condensate
Maintain proper clearances from any openings in the building.
Install the water heater with a minimum clearance of 12 in
(300 mm) above an exterior grade or as required by local codes.
Maintain a minimum clearance of 4 ft (1.2 m) from heating and
cooling vents.
Do not enclose the vent termination.
Install the exhaust vent in an area that is free from obstructions
and does not allow the exhaust to accumulate.
Do not install the water heater where moisture from the exhaust
may discolor or damage walls.
Do not install the water heater in bathrooms, bedrooms, or any
other occupied rooms that are normally kept closed or that are
not adequately ventilated.
Proximity to fixtures and appliances
Install the water heater near fixtures that deliver or use hot water,
such as bathroom, kitchen, and laundry room faucets. Select a
location that minimizes the water piping required between major
fixtures. If the distances are long or if the water heater requires
“instant“ hot water, we recommend running a recirculation line
back to the water heater from the furthest fixture. Insulate as
much of the hot water supply and recirculation lines as possible.
For more information about the water supply, refer to “3.4
Connecting the Water Supply“ on page 20.
3. Installing the Water Heater
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