Install A Water Heater: Tips For Using A Drain Pan

Water heaters can develop leaks over time, which can lead to water damage and costly repairs. A drain pan is an important safety feature that can help catch leaks and prevent water from spreading. To get a water heater into a drain pan, first turn off the power, water, and gas supply to the water heater. Then, detach any pipes or earthquake straps connected to the heater. Next, drain the accumulated water from the water heater and lift the heater with the help of another person. As you lift the heater, place the drain pan under it, ensuring that the heater is elevated securely. Finally, gently lower the heater back down onto the drain pan.

Drain the water heater

To drain a water heater, start by turning off the power and water supply to the heater. If your heater is electric, cut the electric supply. If it runs on gas, turn off the gas supply. Next, shut off the water supply by locating the water pipe and turning it off.

Now, detach the pipes connected to the heater. Earthquake straps that are connected to the heater should also be removed, as they make it difficult to lift the heater.

The next step is to drain the accumulated water from the heater. Attach a garden hose or any other pipe to the water heater drain valve and open the valve. The hot water will then flow out through the hose.

Once the water is completely drained, get someone to help you lift the water heater and place the drain pan under it. Ensure that the heater is elevated securely.

Now, gently place the elevated heater back onto the drain pan. Look for the PVC fittings on the side of the drain pan. This is where you will attach other fittings and pipes to dispose of the water collected in the pan. Use good quality PVC cement to glue the fixtures like elbows and couplings, ensuring that the placement of the fittings facilitates the flow of water outdoors.

Finally, reattach all the pipes that were removed, and turn on the water and gas supply. Turn on the heater to test if the water drain pan has been installed correctly.

Remove attachments and earthquake straps

Removing the earthquake straps from your water heater will be necessary to get it into a drain pan. Earthquake straps are an important safety measure in areas prone to seismic activity, but they can also make it challenging to move or adjust your water heater. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to remove the attachments and earthquake straps from your water heater:

• Locate the earthquake straps: Begin by identifying the straps that secure your water heater in place. Earthquake straps are typically made of heavy-gauge metal and are wrapped around the top and bottom thirds of the water heater. They are connected to the wall studs or masonry using screws or expansion bolts.
• Disconnect the straps: Before you start, make sure you have the necessary tools, such as a screwdriver or a drill. Loosen or remove the screws or bolts that attach the earthquake straps to the wall studs or masonry. Be careful not to lose any small parts, such as washers or spacers, as you may need them again when reinstalling the straps.
• Remove the straps from the water heater: Once the straps are disconnected from the wall, carefully slide them off the water heater. You may need to loosen the straps further or adjust their position to remove them completely.
• Set aside the straps and hardware: Keep the straps and any hardware, such as screws, washers, and spacers, in a safe place. If you plan to reinstall the straps later, having all the necessary parts organized will make the process smoother.
• Check for additional attachments: Depending on your water heater setup, there may be other attachments or connections that need to be addressed. For example, flexible gas and water line connectors may need to be disconnected or adjusted to provide more flexibility when moving the water heater.
• Prepare for reinstallation: If you intend to reinstall the earthquake straps in a different configuration or location, make sure you understand the proper installation techniques. Refer to local building codes and safety standards to ensure that your water heater is securely braced for earthquake protection.

Remember that removing the earthquake straps from your water heater should be done with caution and careful planning. If you live in an area prone to earthquakes, it is crucial to reinstate the straps correctly to prevent damage, injuries, or other hazardous consequences during a seismic event. Always prioritize your safety and consult with a professional if you have any doubts or concerns about the process.

Measure and mark the floor

To install a water heater drain pan, you'll need to take several careful measurements to ensure a proper fit.

First, measure the diameter of the water heater you plan to install the pan under. The existing water heater may be smaller than the new one, so be sure to measure the new heater if you're replacing an old one. Place a tape measure on the top outside edge of the water heater and measure across to the opposite side.

Next, select a drain pan that is slightly larger than the water heater's diameter. This will allow room for a drain fitting to be installed. The pan should be at least 2 inches wider than the water heater. For example, if your water heater is 32 inches in diameter, you should purchase a drain pan that is at least 34 inches across. It's also essential to have a slight clearance around the sides of the pan so that drain fittings and adapters are accessible.

Now, place the drain pan on the floor where you intend to install it. Using a measuring tape, ensure that the pan is a few inches larger than your water heater on all sides. This extra space will allow the pan to catch any leaks effectively. Once you've measured, take a marker and trace an outline of the pan onto the floor.

Finally, you can cut a hole in the floor for drainage. Place on your safety goggles and, using a drill with a hole saw bit, carefully drill a hole at the marked centre of the pan's outline. This will be where the PVC pipe fits to divert water away from the water heater.

Cut a hole for drainage

To cut a hole for drainage, you will need to first empty your water heater of all water. If your tank is connected to the water supply pipes with flexible hoses, you can detach them. If not, you may need to drain the tank.

Once the tank is ready, you can raise it to insert the new drain pan. Depending on the size of the tank, you may need some helpers to lift it while someone else slides the pan underneath. You can use 2x4 or 4x4 blocking to support the tank and slowly remove the blocks as the pan is inserted.

If you are installing a drain pan with a detachable front, you can slide it under the water heater without having to lift the entire tank. First, slide the pan under the heater, then rotate it so that the detachable side is towards the front.

If you need to tip the water heater to insert the pan, use a ramp to help you roll the bottom of the heater onto a new stand. Make sure to determine the height of the stand beforehand, allowing for at least 1/8" per foot drop or slope of the pan's pipe to your building exit point, floor drain, or sump basin.

Level the pan

Once you've cut the hole for the drainage, it's time to level the pan. This is a crucial step as it prevents water from pooling and enhances the pan's effectiveness. Before placing your water heater on the pan, use a level to ensure that the pan is perfectly flat.

If your water heater sits on a concrete slab floor, you may need to raise the level with concrete patio blocks so that it can drain down to the shower drain. If you have a sump hole in your floor, that is also a good option for drainage.

If your water heater is located above the ground floor, you will need a drain pan to prevent leaks from seeping into the walls and ceiling, causing structural damage and potentially triggering a mold outbreak.

Frequently asked questions