Water heater jackets...Question

[David Nasser]

Are they an acceptable item for residential construction? Or should
we recommend that the client remove them?

David

[Jeffrey R. Jonas]

Lately, I have been reading more and more that they should be removed. Modern WH's dont need them anyway.

[Michael R. Boyett]

My standard comment says:

The water heater casing was not visible due to an insulation blanket. There is the possibility that problems or defects with the casing were concealed and concealed defects are not within the scope of the home inspection. Modern water heaters typically are double-walled and insulation blankets generally serve no useful purpose, particularly in an enclosed space. Additionally, some manufacturers may void their warranties when important operation and safety information is not visible. I recommend further evaluation once the insulation blanket has been removed.

[Tim Spargo]

Most of them that I see installed seem to be covering 15-20 year old water heaters, I may mention something about the WH jacket, but I also generally "pull away" jacket and confirm date. If they are as old as I think they are- they usually don't have a smitty pan, are well beyond service life, may or may not be connected with rigid pipes as well.... Meaning I'm usually going to mention to the client they should consider replacement prior to the current unit's failing and likely making a "mess".

This is not always a popular comment, but most of are there to inform our customers.

If I saw a Jacket on a newer WH, I'd make mention that it doesn't or even shouldn't be there as many manu's have indicated their units don't need them. If I wasn't sure, it's usually fairly easy to download a .pdf for a particular manu.

[Joe Funderburk, CMI]

http://www.energysavers.gov/your_hom.../mytopic=13070

[David Nasser]

Thanks everybody

[Chuck Lambert]

When you find them, which you will, they should be installed AFTER the seismic strapping has been installed. In other words (in California) they are to be installed on top of the straps.

They are useless here anyways.

Chuck