Uncontrolled rust in the water heater’s bottom can be quite a devastating issue to deal with. There are also worries about fire hazards from water heaters.
Why people put water heaters on bricks?
Putting a water heater on brick is usually done to protect the bottom from rust. It safeguards the metal body from moisture but that’s not all. Heaters without FVIR can’t be placed directly on the floor. Bricklayers are used for protecting heaters from creating fire hazards.
That was just a tiny portion of what we have on the table for you. We’ve explained the reasons and methods of using them in a step-by-step procedure.
What’s the wait for? Let’s jump in!
Why Put a Water Heater On Bricks?
Water heaters are usually installed a few meters above the ground. Although a lot of people think that it is a must, it’s not.
Misconceptions generate every day when it comes to the water heater adjustment level. Let’s clear up some confusion about them.
FVIR certified gas water heaters have no issue sitting directly on the floor. But that’s not the case for gas heaters that are not FVIR certified.
They must be sited at least 18 inches above the ground. Because heaters without FVIR can cause grave fire hazards if left on the ground.
Electric water heaters can also be placed on the ground. But when installing the heaters, some homeowners prefer them installed above the ground.
It’s not a required adjustment. But some still think it’s better to be installed above. This is where the question of brick comes in.
Brick is used to adjust the water heater above the ground. It also protects the heater’s metal bottom from inhibiting rust. Before deciding to use bricks, let’s take a quick look at the chart below.
See which heaters can be placed on the ground-
| Types Of Water Heater | Adjustment Level |
| FVIR certified Water heaters | Can be placed on the ground |
| Water heaters without FVIR | Can not be placed on the ground |
| Electric water heater | Can be placed on the ground |
Using Bricks To Raise heater Off The Ground
Let’s assume that you want to put bricks under the heater. There are two ways you can effectively use bricks to adjust the height level.
Both methods are effective for water heaters that are installed on it’s side. It’ll be sturdy and there’ll be no worries about the heater falling off.
Method-1: Using Straps To Secure The Heater
This process is easy and cheap to secure your water heater’s position. You’ll be needing a few tools such as-
- 3-4 bricks
- Dremel
- Screw gun
- Pilers
- Wrenches
- Water heater strap kit
Got all you need? Let’s get down to the business.
Step-1: Lay Down The Bricks
Arrange the bricks side by side in a single layer. Now, put the water heater on the bricklayer. Place a stud behind the heater and stick it with the wall. You can use duct boards or metal sheets as substitutes.
Step-2: Attaching Straps
Most heaters need two straps to hold them on the wall. If you’re looking for a good strap kit, this is what we suggest-
| Product 1 | |
| Product 2 |
If you’ve got the straps, let’s attach them to the studs.
Some straps have screws and bolts that can be directly driven into the studs. For others, you’ve to drill a pilot hole first then attach the bolts.
The straps should be in the top and lower 3rd of the bottom tank. The lower half should be above the heater control.
Step-3: Binding The Straps
Wrap the straps around the heater tightly & make sure it’s not loose. If the strap needs length adjustment, cut it with a Dremel. You can use the same Dremel that cuts ductwork. Because the strap is made from a similar material.
At the end of the strap, there’s a hardware kit. It binds the straps together like a belt. There’s a bolt-on which you’ve to tighten properly. Do this for the other strap as well.
And that’s how you use straps to secure the heater’s position using brick underneath.
Method-2: Mortaring The Bricks
Rather than keeping a bunch of unstable layers of bricks, you can mortar them. It’s more stable and safer to put the water heater on the mortared brick.
Step-1: Measurement
Measure and stake out the area size that’s gonna be needed for laying bricks. Mark out the area with a pencil.
Step-2: Making Foundation For Mortaring Bricks
You can use a wooden frame around the first layer of brick. However, it’s totally optional. Apply a 1-1.5 inch layer of concrete on the marked area.
Pour and level the concrete mixture properly. Let the concrete dry completely before laying bricks.
Step-3: Mortaring Bricks
Take a brick and apply some mortar under it with a chisel. Place it onto the dried concrete floor. Repeat this process with every brick.
4 bricklayers is enough for your water heater. If you wish to level it even higher you can add more bricks.
Step-4: Placing The Heater
Simply place the heater on the mortared bricklayer. Since now the base is sturdy you can place it with ease. If you want more safety you can always add straps around your heater.
Also, choose the right size for the supply line for the water heater.
Hopefully, you’ll benefit from these methods!
FAQs
Question: Can an electric water heater be placed on a concrete wall?
Answer: Electric water heaters shouldn’t be sited on concrete floors directly. But if the floor stays dry all the time you can keep the heater on it.
Question: Is it necessary to use a stand for gas water heaters?
Answer: Gas water heaters don’t need a stand normally. But it shouldn’t be placed directly on the floor either. It’s best to place it 18 inches above the floor.
Question: How many straps are needed for a 75-gallon water heater?
Answer: You would need three straps for a 75-gallon water heater. Measure the length of the heater and divide it equally into three parts. Install them in the middle area of each part.
EndNote
We’ve reached our conclusion about the water heater on bricks. Hopefully, this piece was informative enough for you to solve your issue.
Good luck placing bricks on your heater!