The electrical domestic hot water production system can essentially work like any other electrical appliance in your home. However, having a different power source does not make them immune to municipal codes and regulations. If you live in Chicago, there are some aspects of the Chicago plumbing code that you should definitely consider.
As far as current construction practices are concerned, obtaining hot water is under the umbrella of MEP engineering rather than the purview of local administration. And with that, the operation of such a system becomes the responsibility of the owners.
Why do you prefer the electric system to the gas?
Electrical systems are inherently easier to operate as they only require the push of a button. Furthermore, they also do not cause pollution, unlike systems powered by oil or gas. An efficient electric hot water generation system will not only help you save energy but also reduce energy bills.
There are certain places, such as bathrooms or attics, where it is prohibited to keep a fuel-powered water heater; Fortunately, such a restriction does not apply to electric heating systems. However, if certain spaces must be avoided according to the manufacturer's instructions, then in accordance with clause 18-29-502.1 you must comply with them.
Choose the right location for installation
Although most Chicago plumbing code rules and regulations still apply only to oil- or gas-fired water heaters, some instructions still need to be followed, even for an electrical home hot water generating system.
According to the Chicago Municipal Code, before installing a domestic electric hot water generation system, it is necessary to ensure that the installation location has a clear and unobstructed passage large enough for the heater to pass through. Additionally, the walkway must be at least 30 centimeters high, 22 centimeters wide and a maximum of 6 meters long. After the heater is installed, a 30-by-30-inch service space must also be provided along its front or service side.
Do you need to install a hot water generation system?
Make connections carefully
According to the Chicago Plumbing Code, no extension or installation of a home plumbing system will interfere with the home's general water supply. At the same time, they also emphasize the need to prevent any potential damage related to domestic equipment, such as hot water tanks or water heaters.
For this reason, according to clause 18-29-503.1 of the plumbing code, a valve needs to be installed on each water heating device. This valve must be accessible close to the heater, or at least on the same floor where the heater is installed. Remember that one valve should only serve one water heater or space heater.
To ensure greater control, clause 18-29-503.1.1 also states that the shut-off valve must be installed only on the inlet side of the heater, not on the outlet side.
Don't forget safety devices
Maintaining safety and an uninterrupted main supply are the main concerns Chicago engineers need to address on water projects. Many electrical hot water generation systems on the market today come with preset safety devices. But it's best for homeowners to also have a working understanding of security requirements.
Local codes require that you prevent supply water from siphoning into the water heater through the use of vacuum relief valves or a hole in the top of the pipe that connects the water supply to the heater. A vacuum relief valve is also required if the heater is at a higher level than the taps, or generally operating at a higher atmospheric level.
Relief valves must be installed inside the casing of the electric heating device. The valve can be external if the tank and heater are separate, but remember not to place it between the tank and heater. Set the temperature valve so that it responds to the water in the top six inches of the tank's depth. Temperature and pressure relief valves should be limited to 200 degrees Fahrenheit and 150 psi, respectively.
Most importantly, your electrical heat-generating device must have a power shutoff device that cuts off power to the heater before the water reaches a temperature of 200 degrees Fahrenheit. Additionally, it should come with a separate switch that turns off the entire system. These provisions will play a key role in containing any potential accidents.
Do you need to have an inspection?
Yes of course. For those who don't know, adding an electric water heater system to your home plumbing system constitutes an additional installation to the existing system. Chicago's plumbing code states that such projects may be subject to inspections before or after the project is completed.
All inspections will be performed by representatives of the Chicago Water Works System, during which equipment and quality of craftsmanship are inspected to determine whether the project meets local standards. The code also establishes that if the project is considered not approved, the owner must comply within 10 days, after which the concessionaire is authorized to restrict the water supply.
The main purpose of these inspections is to ensure safety at all times. Therefore, inspections should be a welcome part of the process, as they will not only save you the trouble of having to dismantle or replace equipment, but more importantly, they will give you the peace of mind of living in a safe home.
Conclusion
A domestic hot water generation system should be a basic element in every home. The annual minimum temperatures recorded in Chicago are around 4 degrees Celsius. At the same time, Chicago's water supply does not take water temperature into account. As a result, most of the time, the water available in the main supply is much colder than you would prefer.
Installing an electrical hot water generation system for your home can be a great decision in terms of efficiency and usability, especially if it is a tankless water heater. These devices make our lives much more convenient, but they can also be potentially harmful if they are not installed and operated responsibly.
