Appliances can take up a lot of space. Wouldn’t it be nice to change their orientation to maximize the room you have at home?
One of the biggest space offenders is the water heater. A vertical model takes up an entire corner of a closet, room, or garage.
If you could install it horizontally with mounting brackets higher on the wall, you’d gain more floor area to use.
Is it possible to install a water heater on its side?
Can You Install a Water Heater on Its Side?
Water heaters must be installed or mounted in an orientation befitting their design. Most products are meant for vertical installation, but some are built for horizontal installation. Anyone attempting to install a vertical water heater horizontally could fail inspection or violate building codes.
The International Residential Code (IRC) states in Section M2005.1 that “water heaters shall be installed in accordance with Chapter 28, the manufacturer’s instructions, and the requirements of this code.”
That means the manufacturer’s instructions must allow for horizontal installation. If you do not have that paperwork available or it isn’t offered, you cannot install a water heater on its side.
Some water heater manufacturers expressly prohibit horizontal installation. You would be unable to install that appliance without breaking the IRC.
Even if you had a successful hookup and passed inspection, your product warranty might be voided, and any insurance claims involving the appliance might be rejected.
Why Would the Warranty Be Invalidated?
The manufacturer warranty typically specifies that it is only valid if the product gets installed according to the instructions offered. That includes having the installation be compliant with the current IRC and any other local stipulations.
As for your home insurance, the policy provider bases their willingness to compensate for potential claims based on the water heater following the IRC.
If you’ve changed its orientation after it was inspected and cleared, you could be liable for any costs associated with a claim.
This issue includes any related damage that started because the water heater was not installed according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
If water leaks into your foundation, causes it to buckle, and your home requires extensive repairs, you’d potentially be responsible for all the costs.
Horizontal Relief Valve Problems
When tanks allow for horizontal installation, the pressure relief valve gets positioned in an appropriate location. You won’t get this result if you flip a vertical appliance so that it’s on its side.
IRC Section P2804.3 states that pressure relief valves must have a rating adequate to meet the conditions of the appliance or equipment protected.
If equipped with a tank, they must be installed directly into a tank tapping or in a water line close to the tank.
Section P2804.4 goes on to say that temperature relief valves must have a rating compatible with the conditions of the equipment or appliances protected.
They must be installed in such a way that the sensing element monitors the water within the top six inches of the tank.
That means almost all vertical water heaters would be in violation of the IRC standard if they were installed horizontally.
Can I Move a Water Heater on Its Side?
Moving a water heater on its side is different than installing one that way. Some manufacturers and salespeople suggest that the internal components of the appliance could be damaged if it is transported horizontally, which is often a pitch to have you pay an extra delivery charge.
Carefully transporting a new water heater on its side doesn’t void the warranty unless the manufacturer expressly states that it does.
The reason why there is concern about moving a water heater on its side has to do with the glass lining. Great care must be taken in whatever orientation is used for transport to ensure nothing breaks.
Some internal parts, such as the dip tube, are not supported in the horizontal position. Another component, the anode rod, is usually mounted vertically and could be damaged during transport.
How to Move a New Water Heater Safely
If you’re getting ready to install a vertical or a horizontal water heater, these are the steps to follow to ensure you can transport it safely to its intended home.
1. Measure the Box
You’ll need to know that the water heater fits in the vehicle you’re using to transport it. If you order one online, don’t forget to measure your doorways and halls if you need to move the appliance through the home.
You should try to move the water heater in its factory box to ensure the vital components remain secure during the move.
Most manufacturers provide the box dimensions on their product listing or description, allowing you to double-check that everything is good before proceeding with the purchase.
2. Move the Water Heater
If you need to transport your new water heater, it helps to have a dolly or a hand truck and an extra set of hands.
Move it to the vehicle, securing the load to ensure it won’t move. If you’re transporting it horizontally, make sure the unit is completely flat.
That means you might need to take seats out of the vehicle or consider alternative transportation.
You can use moving boards or blankets to help support the tank. Choose the way home that has the fewest number of bumps, potholes, or other issues that could jostle the parts.
Follow the steps in reverse once you get home to ensure safe delivery. Buying your water heater online allows you to skip this step.
3. Inspect the Water Heater for Damage
Once you have the water heater at home in your possession, it’s time to give it a thorough inspection. Look for any signs of obvious damage before trying to move the appliance into your home.
If you see problems with the box or the appliance, you’ll need to contact the information provided with the unit to initiate a return.
4. Place the Water Heater
After moving the box inside, you’re ready to unpack the appliance. Some manufacturers have specific instructions for you to follow at this time, so you’ll want to read through the paperwork before starting this step.
Most water heater boxes come with signs that designate one side should stay up. Treat that information seriously to avoid inadvertently damaging the water heater.
Once you have it placed in its location, you can begin the installation work. If you need to remove a used water heater first, don’t forget to have it drained, electricity or fuel shut off, and follow all safe practices when working with any energy type.
5. Call the Pros
You might be required to have a professional plumber install your water heater. Local rules are highly variable, even if you have permission to work as a general contractor by statute on a property you own.
Since there’s a heat pump involved, some local regulations require an installation permit before proceeding with the installation. You might need to secure this documentation before purchasing your water heater.
This appliance requires some plumbing, some electrical, and sometimes a little carpentry to have a successful result. If you’re unsure of your skills in any of those areas, it’s better to hire a professional to complete the work for you.
What Water Heater Should I Purchase?
The Bosch Thermotechnology 50-Gallon standard electric water heater is today’s best option for most families. It has enough capacity to handle daily needs while allowing more than one person to shower. The size is perfect for a crawl space, maintenance closet, or a spot under the stairs.
When you have the Bosch Thermotechnology 50-Gallon standard electric water heater installed at home, you receive a product with factory-installed electric cold and hot water connections.
You also get heat traps that reduce energy loss from within the tank. It uses HFO foam to insulate for further protection and to reduce fuel costs.
This Bosch design uses two magnesium anode rods to deliver extra tank protection. The heavy-gauge steel tank is built to provide several years of service without causing any trouble, while the glass lining helps to prevent corrosion.
You’ll receive a ten-year warranty on the tank and parts with some limitations.
Unlike other water heaters, this model is relatively silent when operating. You can have it installed in a room without having it interfere with your other daily living activities. It might serve as an upgrade if you have a smaller unit.
You can pair this water heater with a recirculation pump for even faster access to hot water at any sink.
Although you won’t get the extra capacity of a light commercial water heater with this 50-gallon model, it’s still an excellent appliance for a family of up to four.
Whether you need to replace an old one or have a project to complete, don’t forget to install the unit according to the manufacturer’s instructions for the best results.