Water Heaters in Marysville, WA

Home | Service Areas | Washington Water Heater Service | Marysville, WA

Key Codes Enforced in Marysville

Expansion Tanks

• Required on closed plumbing systems (no expansion space in hot water lines) to prevent undue stress on the water heater, plumbing, and temperature & pressure (T&P) relief valve due to thermal expansion of heated water.

  • Note: Sized per UPC Table 607.3; installed on cold water supply line close to heater. Exempt if system is open (e.g., to atmospheric pressure via fixture).

Approved Location

• Gas water heaters prohibited in small, frequently used spaces (e.g., bedrooms, bathroom closets) due to carbon monoxide risks; must be in a dedicated mechanical room or garage with proper combustion air.

  • Direct vent (power vent or sealed combustion) models are exceptions if listed for indoor use.
  • Additional: In garages, ignition source ≥18 inches above floor (or FVIR-listed); steel bollard required if in vehicle path. Must be in conditioned space unless UEF ≥2.0 (per WSEC R403.5.7 for new construction/replacements).

Earthquake Straps

• Mandatory seismic straps at top third and bottom third of tank height to mitigate earthquake risks in Washington (Seismic Design Category D).

  • Note: Minimum ¾-inch x 22-gauge metal straps; 4–12 inches from tank edge, attached to wall framing or 2×4 cross-brace with ¼-inch lag screws. Perforated plumber’s tape not acceptable. 4 inches minimum above controls.

Venting

• Proper venting systems required to safely exhaust combustion products and prevent carbon monoxide exposure; use listed Type B double-wall vent pipe with 1-inch clearance to combustibles (6 inches at draft hood).

  • Note: 3 screws per joint; terminate with listed cap/roof assembly. Sediment trap and shutoff valve on gas line mandatory.

Pressure Regulating Valves

• Required on incoming water supply if static pressure ≥80 PSI to protect heater and fixtures from damage.

  • Note: Set to ≤80 PSI; includes pressure-reducing valve (PRV) with strainer. Test after installation.

Greasepack Gas Valve Replacement

• Greasepack (packed) valves non-compliant with UPC Section 605.6 and not accepted by Washington inspectors; must use ball or lever-handle valves for gas supply.

  • Note: Replace during any gas line work; accessible and rated for fuel type.

Pans and Drains

• Drip pan required under water heaters in attics, furred ceilings, or areas prone to water damage; connect to indirect waste receptor or floor drain.

  • Note: Pan must cover full footprint with ¾-inch drain line; not needed in basements/garages with concrete floors unless local flood risk.

Bonding

• Mandatory equipotential bonding of metal water piping, gas piping, and heater chassis to prevent stray currents, electrolysis, and pipe energization (per UPC 604.8 and NEC).

  • Note: Use #6 AWG copper wire or listed straps; bond to grounding electrode system. Required for all metallic components in contact with water/soil.

Sediment Traps

• Required upstream of gas control valve to protect burner/combustion chamber from pipe debris, scale, and moisture (drip leg tee with cap).

  • Note: Minimum 6-inch vertical leg; install per manufacturer instructions and UPC 908.6.

Dedicated Water Shutoff

• Dedicated shutoff valve required on cold water inlet to allow isolation of heater without shutting off whole-house supply.

  • Note: Full-port ball valve, accessible; combine with dielectric union if needed for dissimilar metals.

Pipe Insulation

• Required on hot and cold water pipes in unconditioned spaces (e.g., attics, crawlspaces) to minimize heat loss and meet energy code (WSEC R403.5).

  • Note: Minimum R-3 insulation; R-10 under electric heaters on concrete or in unconditioned areas. Maintain 6-inch clearance to combustibles.

Requirements apply to residential installations; permits required ($20 fee per unit). Always consult a licensed plumber and verify with Building Services for site-specific compliance.