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PWR2LZ
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Things to consider regarding latest code updates.

(NOTE: Ai generated from google): EXPANSION TANKS: Based on 2026 guidelines, expansion tanks are mandatory on gas water heaters within closed-loop systems—typically featuring check valves, pressure-reducing valves, or backflow preventers—to prevent thermal expansion damage. DIRECT VENT Direct vent gas water heaters are specifically designed to draw all combustion air directly from the outside, meaning they are not required to be installed in a ventilated enclosure and do not pull air from the living space. Plumbing codes, such as the International Fuel Gas Code (IFGC) and Uniform Plumbing Code (UPC), require that the intake and exhaust be properly installed according to the manufacturer’s instructions and specific termination clearances. ** Edited by PWR2LZ at 5/4/2026, 12:28:07 PM
Posted: 05/04/2026 at 12:26 PM ET
(In response to this post by chemhokie)

Thread Replies (19)

Full Thread →
How much for new water heater installed?
chemhokie • 05/04/26 11:47 AM ET
I replaced mine (I'm in the NRV) a few months ago. I did the work myself.
Tafkam Hokie • 05/04/26 04:20 PM ET
I did mine 5 or 6 months ago. 50 Gallon, Gas, Power Vented. My initial
Late 80s Hokie • 05/04/26 03:15 PM ET
$2k? (Robbery)**
ColoVT82 • 05/04/26 03:02 PM ET
Had one done here in Blacksburg a couple years ago for $1100.00. **
santafe • 05/04/26 12:55 PM ET
@santafe - so you're in Blacksburg, not Sante Fe ?**
Chesapeake_Hokie • 05/04/26 04:32 PM ET
Yep**
santafe • 05/04/26 08:03 PM ET
A couple of years ago, with another couple, we bought a townhouse (more)
Chesapeake_Hokie • 05/05/26 08:12 AM ET
I support @santafe post ! :-)**
laphroaig • 05/05/26 10:07 AM ET
Sounds good. We get together about once a month at Bull and Bones to talk
santafe • 05/05/26 08:39 AM ET
Go tankless!**
HOKIE • 05/04/26 12:55 PM ET
I REALLY REALLY would have liked to do that. This is the 3rd water heater
Late 80s Hokie • 05/04/26 03:19 PM ET
Things to consider regarding latest code updates. ◄
PWR2LZ • 05/04/26 12:26 PM ET
Looks like the expansion tank will be required, but for the 40 gal size,
chemhokie • 05/04/26 01:10 PM ET
You are correct re: the tankless. BUT here is something else to consider if
PWR2LZ • 05/04/26 02:00 PM ET
Tankless also takes a bit longer to get hot water to your destination. Mine
DonHo-kieHi • 05/05/26 10:58 AM ET
What a PITA! A tankless unit is supposed to be very energy efficient, but
PWR2LZ • 05/05/26 12:53 PM ET
Yep, don’t get me started on Nat gas pool and spa heating and I could go
DonHo-kieHi • 05/05/26 01:30 PM ET
here in the NRV that would probably be $1200-$1400**
JoesterVT • 05/04/26 12:04 PM ET
Gas will run more than an electric. Ballpark around $2000.**
Stork • 05/04/26 11:53 AM ET