Water Heater chimney diameter per code 3" or 4"?
Hello, our local plumbers.
I've a question: when replacing a water heater (here in Hackettstown), what is the code for the chimney? Presently it's 3" in diameter, but I was told it's supposed to be 4" per "new" code in order to pass a home inspection.
So, is it 3" or for 4"?
Pyc We had our water heater replaced a few years ago. We were told that if we replace broken unit for the unit with the same capacity we (or plumber) don't need to obtain a permit from municipality and no inspection required but if we change for the larger unit then a permit is required and there will be approval inspection after work is done and a sticker is put on the unit. If work is done without permit and following inspection then it might be a problem in the future while trying to sell the house. Bottom line - if you are replacing for yourself and know what you are doing then your safety is up to you. If you are changing water heater and planning to sell a house then water heater and entire plumbing system should pass home inspection. BTW, plumber told us that we already have proper size chimney and there is no need to change it for the larger water heater.
lena Call the Hackettstown construction office. They will inform inform you what is required.
https://www.hackettstown.net/construction
(908) 850 0660.
Greg I had my water heater replaced in Washington last week. We needed to change from 3 to 4
Jimt1058The vent opening on top of new water heaters has been 4 inches for quite a few years now. A 3 inch flu pipe over a 4 inch opening wouldn’t vent properly.
GreatMeadows My house doesn't have a chimney so I need a power vent natural gas water heater. I replaced it for the second time a couple months ago... 1st time was in 2011.
50-gallon heater was $2,200 at Ferguson's... I'm pretty sure I paid less than a grand in 2011.
ianimal Pyc, You're welcome. Shannon or whoever you get on the phone will be able to let you know what the deal is. I'm fairly certain it's 4 in. In addition, don't forget you'll need an expansion tank as well now.
update:
3" pipe is for water heaters under 35,000 BTU (and under 50 gals), 4" - for 35,000 BTU and up.
Regarding an expansion tank - I have the mixed information: it's either expansion tank or a "thermal expansion relief" valve. However it's called, it must be installed on the larger capacity tanks (50 gallons and up) coupled with the water pipe pressure (something like 75 of "whatever pressure units are used", pounds/in2?).
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