Sonoran Property Inspections did another Scottsdale, Arizona home inspection this past week. Here are some hints to help you understand the importance of the care of water heaters and drain pans.
The 2011 water heater had an aluminum drain pan under the water heater to help contain any leakage that might occur if there is a failure. Water heater drain pans are not required by code, however they are becoming more of a standard plumbing item. The drain pan is approx 3” deep and about 1” in diameter larger than the water heater. It also has a separate drain line that is traditionally run to the outside of the building, or to a lower level of a garage floor.
The water heater that we inspected had a drain fitting, however NO drain line which renders the drain pan useless. We of course recommend finishing the pvc drain line to make this drain pan a usable pan in the event of a leak. Certainly not a deal breaker, but it is the type of item our clients appreciate knowing!
Sonoran Property Inspections can perform your Home Inspections and would be happy to discuss this with you. Please contact us for more information on pricing and scheduling.