How to Install Water Heater Venting

You should install natural gas water heaters with proper venting to prevent a disaster in your home. Improperly venting your water heater can cause damage to your property or yourself. You can cause a fire or even carbon monoxide poisoning with incorrect venting.

Instructions

1. Insert the water heater draft hood by the legs into the holes in the top of the water heater. When you replace the entire water heater, replace the draft hood with a new one even if you find the old hood in good working order.

2. Ensure that you use the correct size vent pipe on your water heater. Use a pipe with a diameter at least as big as the draft hood collar. When you replace the entire heater, look at the vent pipe and be sure it isn't corroded. If you notice damage, replace the pipe too.

3. Install the vent pipe straight up over the top of your water heater as far as you can. When you lay the pipe horizontally, angle it up 1/4 inch for every foot of pipe you use. Attach the pipe with sheet metal screws.

Tips & Warnings

• Make no alterations to your draft hood when you install it.

• Refer to the "National Fuel Gas Code" for installation guidelines.

• Keep your water heater venting pipe clear of obstructions.