In most cases, Yes. Whether you need a drain pan under a water heater is mostly determined by the location where it is installed. If your water heater is installed in an attic or ceiling space or inside the interior living space, a drain pan is required under your water heater.

Is a drain pan necessary?

Drain pans aren’t a requirement for your washer, but they are an inexpensive and simple way of protecting your home by catching small leaks and reducing the amount of water damage from broken hoses. If your laundry room is upstairs, a drain pan is recommended to protect against leaks that can seep into the rooms below.

Should hot water heater sit on pan?





It’s usually recommended to have your water heater elevated from the ground to at least 18 inches for various reasons and mostly for safety concerns. Another thing your water heater should always have is a drain pan installed under them to drain any leakage from the tank in the drain pan and to the building’s exterior.

Why do you need a pan under water heater?

Drain pans slide under the water heater or washing machine and catch water from leaks, spillage or drips. A drain pan can also help to protect flooring from condensation. Drain pans are especially recommended for washing machines that are upstairs in a home or building.

Does a hot water heater have to be off the floor?

How high should my gas water heater be off the ground? Your gas water heater should be 18 inches off of the ground, as per the National Fuel Gas Code. This is the standard for water heater installation requirements.

What to do if water is in pan under water heater?

When you see water in the water heater drain pan, check for leaks at the water pipe fittings. Tighten the water pipe connections if necessary. Check the drain valve and temperature-pressure relief valve for leaks. Replace the drain valve or relief valve if they leak.

How far off the floor must water heaters be placed?





18 inches

According to the Uniform Plumbing Code, a natural gas tank water heater should be installed at least 18 inches from the ground. It’s also important to note that this measurement doesn’t necessarily start at the bottom of the unit.

Can electric water heater sit on garage floor?

Water heaters having an ignition source shall be elevated so that the source of ignition is not less than 18” above the garage floor. An ignition source could be many things, including an open flame, electrical switch, open resistance heating coils, or an electrical igniter unit.

Does a water tank need to be on a slab?

It is essential to have your rainwater tank on a FLAT LEVEL COMPACTED BASE. The base of your Rainwater tank must be fully supported at all times. You should inspect your base regularly to ensure the base is not being eroded and that animals or insects are not undermining the base.

Does an electric water heater have to be on a stand?



Does a Water Heater Need to Be on a Stand? If you own an electric tank-style water heater, you don’t need to place it on a stand.