Gas water heater

[Joe]

I have a gas water heater in an unfinished basement with a washer/dryer near by. I am always worried about clothing getting too near the water heater and catching on fire. Is this a real concern ? Does the code address this by requiring a wall around the water heater ?
Thanks, Joe

[Joe]

any responses

[mdshunk]

I have a gas water heater in an unfinished basement with a washer/dryer near by. I am always worried about clothing getting too near the water heater and catching on fire. Is this a real concern ? Does the code address this by requiring a wall around the water heater ?
Thanks, Joe
Nope, the code does not address this issue. Common sense should dictate that laundry not be piled up against any fuel burning appliance. The bigger 'hazard' with respect to gas appliances in laundry areas is caused by the chlorine laden air (from wash water) being burned in the gas burning appliance. This rots out heat exchangers a lot quicker than usual. There is no code with respect to this concern either, it's just an observation.

[DUNBAR PLUMBER]

Another good reason why they mandated the FVIR type water heaters.


Worst case scenarios are becoming all too common where the seriousness of the water heater is often ignored.


F Flammable
V Vapor
I Ignition
R Resistant


Meaning, sealed combustion chamber, internal sensors to detect higher heat, spark arrestor at air intake of burner housing.