The Physics of Earthquake-Induced Tank Failure
In California, seismic ground acceleration poses an acute threat to water heaters. An unbraced 50-gallon tank weighing over 500 pounds can easily topple during a moderate tremor, snapping rigid copper water supply lines and severing black iron gas pipes. California Health and Safety Code Section 19211 mandates that all new and replacement water heaters must be securely braced, anchored, or strapped to resist falling or horizontal displacement.
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