Marianne Martinez
Tankless water heaters are efficient but run the risk of leaking and causing water damage. While some plumbers believe that a drip pan is unnecessary and that regular manufacturer maintenance is sufficient, others recommend installing a drain pan to prevent leaks. Drain pans are designed to be wall-mounted under a tankless water heater to catch leaks, with some products offering a watertight seal. The Camco 11470 Tankless Water Heater Drain Pan with PVC Fitting is one such product available on Amazon, although some customers have expressed concerns about its durability and supply chain issues.
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What You'll Learn
Tankless water heaters don't explode but can leak
Tankless water heaters are designed to heat water on demand, rather than continuously heating a stored supply of water. While they are generally reliable, they are not immune to leaks. High water pressure, for instance, can cause wear and tear over time, leading to potential leaks. Similarly, pipes with loose connections can also result in leaks, which may require tightening or replacement.
Hard water, which is prevalent across the US, is another common culprit. Hard water contains high levels of minerals like calcium and magnesium, which can leave behind a white scale that blocks and corrodes pipes. To prevent this, annual flushing with a cleaning solution is recommended to remove scale buildup. Additionally, devices like water softeners can be used to reduce or eliminate the hardness of the water, preventing pipe damage and leaks.
Water dripping from a condensate line is another issue that may be misinterpreted as a leak. This is typical of condensing tankless water heaters, which produce acidic water. While this is generally safe, it can be hazardous, and a neutralizer can be installed to address this concern.
To mitigate potential water damage, it is advisable to install a drain pan under the heater. These pans are designed to catch leaks, protecting your property from water damage. While custom pans can be made, ready-made options are also available, such as the Camco 11470 Tankless Water Heater Drain Pan, which can be mounted to a wall.
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Drain pans can prevent leaks and water damage
While tankless water heaters do not "explode" when they fail, they can still leak and cause water damage. Drain pans can prevent leaks and water damage by collecting and draining leakage. Wall-mounted drain pans, for example, can be installed under a tankless water heater to catch any leaks and protect your floors and home from water damage.
There are various drain pans available for tankless water heaters, such as the Camco 11470 Tankless Water Heater Drain Pan, which comes with a PVC fitting and is easy to install. This product has received mixed reviews, with some customers finding it good value for money and effective at preventing leaks, while others have criticised its quality and the supply chain. Another option is the Killarney Metals Wall Mounted Tankless Water Heater Drain Pan, made from sturdy metal that won't chip or crack and comes with a drain fitting to ensure a watertight seal.
Some plumbers and homeowners believe that a drip pan is unnecessary for a tankless water heater and that regular maintenance by the manufacturer is sufficient. However, others argue that a leak sensor or a bucket placed under the T&P valve pipe is a cheaper alternative to catch small or large amounts of water in the rare case of a leak. Ultimately, the decision to install a drain pan under a tankless water heater depends on personal preference and the level of protection desired.
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Drain pans are easy to install
Drain pans are an essential component of tankless water heaters, preventing leaks and ensuring efficient operation. They are easy to install and come in various types, such as traditional, unvented, and low-profile pans, catering to different needs and setups.
Traditional drain pans, made of plastic or metal, are available in various sizes and are easy to install. They collect and drain water from tankless heaters, requiring a drain line for disposal. Low-profile drain pans, on the other hand, are designed for tight spaces and may be installed under a tankless water heater or other appliances. These pans are shallower and made of durable plastic. Unvented drain pans are specifically created for ventless tankless heaters and do not need a vent pipe.
When installing a drain pan, it is crucial to consider factors like size, material, installation requirements, and compatibility with your existing water heater setup. The size of the pan should match your heater, and the material should be durable and corrosion-resistant. Installation requirements include ensuring the pan is compatible with your water heater's capacity and provides sufficient space underneath for effective water collection.
For a successful installation, follow these steps:
- Drain the water heater completely and detach it from plumbing, electricity, and vents.
- Use a jack to lift the water heater slightly (about 3 inches) off its stand.
- Slide the drain pan underneath, positioning it correctly with the drain opening oriented where you want it.
- Lower the water heater into the pan and remove the jack.
- Re-attach the water heater and connect the pan's piping. Shark-Bite type fittings work well for this.
Some users have shared their experiences with installing drain pans, highlighting the ease of installation. One user of the Camco 11470 Tankless Water Heater Drain Pan with PVC Fitting mentioned that installation only required drilling 3-4 holes in the top and mounting it to the wall under the water heater. Another user of the same product praised its ease of installation, functionality, and value for money.
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Drain pans are available in plastic, aluminium and galvanised metal
While some people argue that a drip pan is unnecessary for a tankless water heater, it is always better to be safe than sorry. Drain pans are available in plastic, aluminium, and galvanised metal, each with its own set of advantages and disadvantages.
Plastic drain pans, such as those offered by Camco, are readily available at stores like Amazon and Lowe's. They are easy to install, provide good value for money, and effectively prevent leaks. However, some customers have expressed concerns about the quality of the plastic used, describing it as "too thin and brittle."
Aluminium drain pans, like the Camco Wall Saver, are another option for tankless water heaters. Aluminium offers a sturdy and durable solution, but it may not be as widely available as plastic options.
Galvanised metal drain pans, such as those offered by Killarney Metals, provide a robust solution to leak protection. These pans are designed to be wall-mounted and can cover the footprint of the heater and its piping, ensuring effective water damage prevention. The metal construction ensures that the pan won't chip or crack, providing long-lasting performance.
Ultimately, the choice of material depends on your specific needs, budget, and availability in your region. While plastic options may be more affordable and accessible, aluminium and galvanised metal pans offer increased durability and a longer lifespan. Remember to consider factors such as ease of installation, leak prevention effectiveness, and customer reviews when making your decision.
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Alternatives to drain pans include leak sensors and buckets
Tankless water heaters do require a drain pan to prevent leaks and water damage. While a drain pan is an effective way to protect against leaks, there are other alternatives to consider.
Leak sensors are a popular alternative to drain pans. These puck-shaped devices are placed on the floor and will set off an alarm or send a smartphone notification when they detect water. Some models, like the D-Link DCH-S1621KT, have quick response times and can detect leaks on uneven surfaces. They can also be placed in a plastic pan to ensure that a sufficient amount of water collects to trigger the sensor.
Another alternative is to use a bucket with drainage holes. While this may not be as effective as a drain pan, it can still collect leaking water and prevent it from spreading. Additionally, buckets can be easily sourced for free from restaurants or bulk ingredient suppliers.
It is important to note that while these alternatives can help, a drain pan specifically designed for tankless water heaters is still the most effective way to prevent leaks and water damage.
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Frequently asked questions
Tankless water heaters do not require a pan. However, some people choose to install a drip pan to catch any leaks and prevent water damage.
A suitable drip pan for a tankless water heater should be wall-mountable and made of sturdy material, such as metal or plastic.
Drip pans for tankless water heaters are available at various retailers, including Amazon, Lowe's, Killarney Metals, and PlumbingSupply.com.
