Water Heater Enclosure?

[timindp]

I am doing an FHA appraisal for a purchase in Santa Ana, CA. The water heater is located outside the subject dwelling which is common in So.Cal. Though the water heater is not enclosed which is not common. I am assuming that this would have to be called out correct?? I have never seen a water heater that was not enclosed when located outside the dwelling with no protection from the weather and elements. It also appears that the venting is not to code after reading some literature on water heaters.

 

[bnmappraisal]

good question. I have similar water heaters in my market, but as you say, they're always covered/protected from the elements.

 

[glenn walker]

Well being outside venting should not be an issue , it's double strapped , I personally don't have a problem with it but others may. Is it a health and safety issue ? I don't know I guess if it blows up there will be hot water going everywhere LOL

 

[KHS445]

For full disclosure I do not do FHA or AMC work but in looking at these pictures two things jump out at me. First is what appears to be an electrical wire running from the light above the door (and across a portion of the door) to the water softener. Even if not an electrical wire, by crossing over a portion of the doorway it creates a potential safety hazard. Second is while this type of installation may be typical in some markets, the gas value for the water heater is exposed and not protected from accidental contact. If contacted this value could be damaged to the point of causing a gas leak and a possible explosion.

Another item I would not be comfortable with is the exhausting system. As stated above it is an exterior installation, but both the vent at the top of the water heater and the top of the makeshift exhaust system are within about three feet of the door and window which under the correct circumstances (wind and/or pressure) could cause the exhaust gases to enter the home. Taking it a step further the top of the water heater exhaust vent does not extend above the peak of the roof which may prevent a proper draft being created.

 

[VegasWayne]

Doesn't the pilot go out whenever the wind blows?

 

[Mike Garrett RAA]

Never run into that in 35+ years of appraising. I would comment on it and let the lender make the decision.

 

[RSW]

Nice watch dogs on the back porch.

 

[Mr Rex]

Thats a regular run of the mill water heater NOT designed or intended to be installed outside with no protection. If you question yourself, go to the manufacturers install page...