A water heater installation has to meet a handful of California rules. They exist for real reasons: a falling heater can break a gas line, and a leaking one can flood a closet.
Earthquake straps are required
California Health and Safety Code section 19211 requires new, replacement and existing residential tank water heaters to be braced, anchored or strapped to resist falling or moving in an earthquake. The plumbing code calls for straps in the upper and lower thirds of the tank, with the lower strap at least 4 inches above the controls.
Drain pans where leaks could cause damage
California Plumbing Code section 507.5 calls for a watertight, corrosion-resistant pan under the heater when it sits in an attic, over a ceiling or floor assembly, or anywhere a leak could cause damage. The pan must be at least 1.5 inches deep with a drain of at least 3/4 inch to an approved location.
Expansion tanks on closed systems
Under California Plumbing Code section 608.3, a water system with a check valve, backflow preventer or other device that stops pressure from going back to the main needs an approved device to control thermal expansion, usually an expansion tank. Many San Diego homes have a pressure regulator, which is worth asking about.
Permits
In the City of San Diego, replacing a tank water heater uses a simple "no-plan" plumbing/gas permit, which homeowners, property owners and licensed contractors can obtain. Tankless water heaters, and work on historic properties, need a plan-required permit. Other cities in the county have their own permit offices and rules.
General information, not professional or legal advice; follow your manufacturer's manual, and your installer and local permit office have the final word. Sources:California Health and Safety Code section 19211; California Plumbing Code sections 507.2, 507.5 and 608.3 (as summarized in a city water heater handout); City of San Diego, Plumbing/Gas Permit.
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