A water heater tank should be installed inside a pan in locations in a dwelling where a leak from the tank could cause damage to the structure or property. The pan is intended to catch water leaks from the tank or associated connections, or condensate from the tank. The pan should be made of galvanized steel or other material approved for that use. Pre-fabricated aluminum and plastic pans are common and widely used. Aluminum and plastic pans may not be allowed by every authority having jurisdiction (AHJ) or code official because they are not made of galvanized steel, and some tank manufacturers require the use of a metal pan only.

Plumbing Vents

Depending on location, there are primarily two different types of plumbing vent flashing. The most common in northern climates is the neoprene or metal boot. In Florida and in many other southern states, a lead flashing, which also protects the plastic vent pipe from ultraviolet damage, is more common. The stack vent is provided for the waste stack. The stack vent is the extension of a soil or waste stack above the highest horizontal drain that is connected to the stack. This is the main commonly-observed pipe that is observed penetrating the sloped roof surface, and it may also be visible in the unfinished attic space. This is an inspection image of a stack vent pipe penetrating the roof covering surface.