Header tank/roof space hot water cylinder not earthquake restrained

Cause

Strapping has not been installed

Repair

  • strap (with 25 x 1 mm galvanised steel strap) the tank to roof framing, or brace it to prevent overturning – see diagram at right for bracing for header tanks up to 150 litres. Ensure the support platform is also well braced
  • timber blocking may be installed to prevent sliding of the base of the header tank or hot water cylinder. A minimum of three blocks should be used, spaced as evenly as possible around the perimeter


Repair

  • hot water cylinder restraint kits including straps, screws and tensioning devices are available from hardware stores. Hot water cylinders inside the roof space should have 25 x 1mm galvanised steel straps around the top and bottom of the cylinder securely fixed to framing. The straps should be tensioned when in place. Cylinders over 200 litres require a third strap in the centre (see second drawing)