Gas Water Heater Exhaust Pipe Installation

Some installation might be a significant challenge or even become impossible due to a water heater height and chimney flue connection level in those cases induced draft motor equipped water heater should be considered.

Gas water heater exhaust pipe installation.

To check the venting on your existing unit close all windows and doors and turn on all gas appliances and exhaust fans and turn up the temperature on your water heater for a few minutes. Use a carpenter s level and plastic shims to level the water heater as needed. If your water system has a check valve or anti siphon valve on the supply line an expansion tank near the cold intake to the heater will likely be necessary. This type of venting system is different from what you see on most gas water heaters.

Then hold an extinguished match near the vent hood. Tie in new hot and cold water lines to the existing water lines with copper pipe and run the lines to the new water heater. Align the water heater to ensure easy access to the burner and controls. The attached installation instructions from the manufacturer of these water heaters require a minimum vertical rise in the water heater exhaust flue as well as a proper ul listed chimney cap or termination for safe venting of combustion products.

Gas water heater vent pipe connector must continuously run upward towards the chimney entrance rising not less than 1 4 per linear foot to provide proper draft. The difference is that a power vent water heater pulls in combustion air from the space around the appliance then uses a fan to propel the exhaust through the vent. Step 1 gas water heaters need proper venting for operation. There are grave liabilities and risks involved in violating basic mechanical and safety standards.

It s easier to run the vent if you install a power vented type of natural gas or propane water heater. Natural gas or propane hot water heaters are generally less expensive to operate than electric heaters but installing a standard vent in a house without an existing chimney is expensive. See the heater owner s manual for more information. Install the water heater in an area with at least 6 inches of clearance on all sides to ensure adequate ventilation.