Can Schedule 40 PVC pipe be used to vent gas power vent hot water heater?
In short, Yes.
Power vented gas water heaters are equipped with an electric blower fan that is installed on top of the water heater, which requires an electrical outlet to be close to the water heater. The blower pushes the exhaust and excess heat through the exhaust venting. The venting can run either vertically or horizontally with a longer line to help with space and sizing issues within your home, which makes power vent water heaters more flexible to install.
Power vents are a more efficient option, as they are designed to utilize heat from the exhaust to heat water for energy savings. Thanks to lower exhaust temperatures they allow for PVC piping, which is a less expensive solution than a standard atmospheric vent metal piping and easier to assemble. We recommend that you consult a professional plumbing contractor for installation.
Power vented water heater location:
You should carefully choose an indoor location for the new water heater, because the placement is a very important consideration for the safety of the occupants in the building and for the most economical use of the appliance.
Power vented water heater exhaust clearances:
• 0″ clearance for 3″ (or optional 2″ and 4″) PVC, ABS, or CPVC
Schedule 40 piping from combustible surfaces.
• 18″ minimum in all directions from any obstruction that may
interfere.
• 12″ minimum from the ground, 9″ ceiling overhangs. Figure 2.
• The Power Vent outlet terminal shall terminate at least 36″
above any forced air inlet into the building located within 10
feet. Figure 3a.
• The Power Vent outlet terminal shall terminate at least 4 feet
below, 4 feet horizontally from or 1 foot above any door, window or gravity air inlet into the building. Figure 3a.
• 18″ minimum from other natural draft (gravity) direct vent, power vent or power direct vent appliance inlet and/or outlet vent(s) when directly above or 135° to either side of center line. Figure 3c.
• 24″ minimum from any appliance inlet and/or outlet vents when directly below or 45° to either side of center line. Figure 3c.
• The location selection must provide clearances for servicing and proper operation of the water heater. Figure 4.
• Vent termination must not be within 4 feet of any items such as gas meters, gas valves or other gas regulating equipment.
• The venting system must be installed in a manner which allows inspection of the installation of the venting pipes and joints as well as periodic inspection after installation as required by ANSI Standards.
Water Heater Manufacturers
This reference guide is designed to help both homeowners and professionals determine the manufactured date of the installed water heater.
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Last Updated on 4 years ago
