Wiktor Wise
Whether or not electric heaters need to be strapped depends on where you live. In California, for example, electric heaters need to be strapped to resist motion during an earthquake. This is also the case in Alaska and Nevada. However, in Florida, for example, it is not a requirement because electric heaters sit on the floor, so they are unlikely to tip over. If your heater is not strapped, there are risks of fires, electric shocks, broken water lines, and flooding in the event of an earthquake.
Do electric heaters have to be strapped?
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Safety | Prevent fires, electric shocks, broken water lines, flooding, and health risks in the event of an earthquake |
| Installation | Requires lag screws, oversized and flat washers, and straps |
| Cost | $18-$100 for materials and tools; $700-$1,500 for a licensed plumber |
| Location | Required in areas with a high risk of seismic activity, such as California, Alaska, and Nevada |
| Maintenance | Regular inspection and upgrading to ensure compliance with local codes and safety standards |
| Alternatives | Space heaters, but require careful placement and should not be left unattended |
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What You'll Learn
Earthquake safety
Water heaters, if not properly secured, can pose significant risks during an earthquake. The ground movements can cause the water heater to shift, tip over, or slide off its platform, leading to hazardous situations. Earthquake straps are designed to securely anchor your water heater to the wall, preventing it from moving during an earthquake. This simple yet effective measure helps maintain the safety of your home and its inhabitants by reducing the risk of water damage, electrical hazards, and hindrances to firefighting efforts.
In California, where earthquakes are a frequent occurrence, the law mandates that all water heaters, electric or gas, must be properly strapped to resist motion and prevent tilting or falling during an earthquake. This requirement extends to all homes, multi-family properties, offices, apartments, and public buildings. The state has specific standards for strapping, including the use of two straps, one in the upper one-third and the other in the lower one-third of the fixture, with proper connectors and attachments.
To ensure compliance with local regulations, it is advisable to consult with professionals who are familiar with plumbing codes and regulations in your area. They can guide you in installing or upgrading your water heater straps to meet the necessary safety standards. Additionally, it is recommended to have your water heater inspected regularly, especially if it is older, to ensure that it adheres to current safety protocols.
By taking these proactive measures, you can significantly reduce the potential damage caused by an earthquake and enhance the safety of your home, family, and neighborhood.
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Health and safety
In California, where earthquakes are a regular occurrence, the law requires that all water heaters, including electric ones, be strapped with one strap in the upper third of the unit and one strap in the lower third of the tank. This is to prevent the heater from falling or tilting during an earthquake, which could lead to fires or floods. Other states with similar requirements include Alaska and Nevada.
To ensure the safety of your electric heater, it is recommended to use a double strap system, with straps placed in the top and bottom thirds of the heater. This will prevent the heater from rocking and tipping. It is also important to use the correct hardware, such as lag screws with a minimum 1/4" diameter and a flat washer for reinforcement.
In addition to the risks associated with earthquakes, electric heaters also pose other health and safety risks. For example, the Consumer Product Safety Commission reports that space heaters are involved in more than a thousand home fires every year. To prevent fires, it is important to never leave a space heater unattended and to keep children and pets away from the heater. Manufacturers also advise against plugging space heaters into surge protectors, extension cords, or plug timers, as this can increase the risk of overloading the circuit or creating additional resistance that could lead to a fire.
Overall, while electric heaters may not have the same gas-related risks as natural gas heaters, it is important to take health and safety precautions to prevent injuries and accidents associated with their use.
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Installation and maintenance
The installation and maintenance of electric heaters is a crucial yet straightforward process, especially in areas prone to natural disasters like earthquakes. While the specific requirements may vary based on your location, the overall goal is to ensure safety and prevent potential hazards. Here are the essential steps and considerations for installing and maintaining electric heaters:
Installation:
- Check Local Codes: Before installing an electric heater, it is crucial to consult your local codes and regulations. Some states, such as California, Alaska, and Nevada, have specific requirements for strapping water heaters due to their high risk of seismic activity.
- Hire a Licensed Professional: While it may be tempting to install the heater yourself to save costs, hiring a licensed plumber ensures that the installation complies with local codes. They will have the expertise to handle any complexities and recommend the best practices for your specific heater.
- Strapping Requirements: In areas prone to earthquakes, strapping your electric heater is essential. The latest codes typically require double strapping, with straps placed in the upper one-third and lower one-third of the unit. This helps to secure the heater and prevent it from falling or tilting during a seismic event.
- Materials and Tools: Use high-quality materials and tools that meet the required standards. Metal bands are often the preferred choice for durability and stability. Ensure you have the correct connectors, lines, and attachment hardware.
- Wall Attachments: Properly attach the electric heater to a wall to prevent it from falling or tilting. This is especially important in earthquake-prone areas to minimize the risk of fire or flooding due to broken water lines.
Maintenance:
- Regular Inspections: It is essential to have your electric heater inspected regularly by a professional, especially if it is an older model. They can ensure that the strapping, connectors, and lines are up to date and comply with current safety standards.
- Clean Water Tank: Maintain a clean water tank to prevent bacteria growth. After a natural disaster, check for water contamination and ensure the water is safe for drinking or cooking.
- Fire Safety: Be cautious of potential fire hazards associated with electric heaters. Regularly check for any gas leaks or damaged electrical connections that could spark a fire. Keep the area around the heater clear of flammable materials, and always unplug the heater when not in use.
- User Guidelines: Follow the manufacturer's instructions and user guidelines for your electric heater. This includes placement instructions, such as keeping the heater on a flat surface and maintaining a safe distance from walls and flammable objects.
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Regulations and requirements
The regulations and requirements for strapping electric heaters vary depending on your location. In California, for example, legislation requires that all water heaters, including electric ones, be anchored or strapped to prevent fires, electric shocks, broken water lines, and flooding in the event of an earthquake. This is because California experiences frequent earthquakes, which can cause significant damage to homes and businesses.
The California Building Standards Code (CBSC) has specific requirements for strapping water heaters, including the use of specific straps, such as metal bands, and the placement of the straps in the upper and lower thirds of the unit. It is also important to use the correct connectors and lines and to ensure that the wall attachments are upgraded and able to withstand the weight of the heater.
In Los Angeles, the use of P-tape on installations over 40 gallons is prohibited, and the city requires the use of metal bands for price, durability, and stability.
Other states with similar seismic activity, such as Alaska and Nevada, have also amended their local codes beyond the International Residential Code (IRC) requirements. For example, Alaska and Nevada's Uniform Plumbing Code requires that all water heaters in areas with significant seismic activity be strapped down.
While there may be no specific laws or regulations requiring the strapping of electric heaters in areas not prone to earthquakes, it is still important to consider the safety risks associated with unstrapped heaters. These heaters can pose a health and safety risk to your family and pets, as they may fall over and cause injuries or damage to your property.
To ensure compliance with local codes and regulations, it is recommended that you consult with a licensed professional or refer to your local building codes and regulations. They can guide you in determining the specific requirements and standards for your area, including the type of straps, connectors, and wall attachments needed to secure your electric heater properly.
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Cost of installation
Electric heaters do not always have to be strapped to the wall. However, if you live in an earthquake-prone region or have loose flooring, it is recommended to strap them to the wall with special straps. Small tanks can also be hung up to keep them off the floor.
The cost of installing an electric heater varies depending on the type of heater, the location, and the complexity of the installation. Here are some estimates for different types of electric heaters:
Electric Water Heaters
The national average cost for an electric water heater with installation is $800 to $1,500. However, the cost can be as low as $595 for a direct replacement of a 40-gallon electric tank water heater or as high as $3,000 for a whole-house electric tankless heater. The cost of the unit itself ranges from $350 to $2,500, and the installed cost is $620 to $3,500, depending on the location and size.
Electric Baseboard Heaters
The average cost of installing an electric baseboard heater is $725, but it can range from $200 for simple installations to $4,000 for complex installations that require electrical upgrades. The cost of the heater unit itself ranges from $50 to $250 for electric-only models and $200 to $400 for hydronic models. The installation cost can vary from $400 to $650, with the average homeowner spending around $550 on installing a 72-inch, 1500-watt, 240-volt electric baseboard heater for a 100 sq. ft. room.
Electric Wall Heaters
In January 2025, the estimated cost to install an electric wall heater ranged from $1,237 to $1,475 per heater. The cost depends on factors such as location, size, and specific options of the project.
Electric Heat Pump Water Heaters
The cost of installing an electric heat pump water heater is generally more expensive than standard alternatives, ranging from $1,500 to $3,000 per unit (not including tax credits, rebates, and incentives). However, they offer superior efficiency, energy savings, and greenhouse gas reduction potential.
It is important to note that the cost of installation may also include additional factors such as labor charges, electrical permits, and removal or modification of existing systems.
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Frequently asked questions
Electric heaters do not always need to be strapped. However, in areas prone to earthquakes, it is a standard regulation to strap heaters to prevent fires, electric shocks, broken water lines, and flooding in the event of an earthquake.
In the US, states like California, Alaska, and Nevada require electric heaters to be strapped.
The process involves using a kit with straps, screws, and washers to secure the heater to a wall. The straps are placed around the heater, and the screws and washers are used to attach the straps to the wall.
Not strapping an electric heater can pose safety risks, especially in areas prone to natural disasters like earthquakes. An unstrapped heater can fall over, causing injuries, and also damage gas and water lines, leading to fires or flooding.
