The double-body strap is the system of choice wherever water heater bracing is required. Also, a step-by-step guide to strapping a storage tank heater.
UPC requires water heaters in seismic zones 3 and 4 to be anchored or strapped to resist horizontal displacement due to earthquake motion. The code specifies that strapping must be installed at two locations, within both upper third and lower third of the unit's vertical dimension. The lower strap must be at least four inches above the controls. Jose Carranva, with A. J. Foster Inc. Plumbing of El Cajon, Calif., measures the water heater to make sure the approved strapping kit will be mounted in proper locations. He notes the heights of selected upper and lower strapping positions.
