How a gas heater vents
Most older tank heaters in Brea are atmospherically vented. Hot exhaust rises from the burner, through a draft hood on top of the tank and up a metal vent pipe to the outside. This only works if the vent is the right size, sealed at the joints, sloped upward and not blocked. If any of that fails, exhaust containing carbon monoxide can spill into the garage or house.
Power-vented and condensing heaters use a fan to push exhaust out, often through plastic pipe in a side wall. They need electricity to run and have their own rules on vent materials and where the termination can be. All gas heaters also need enough combustion air, which is why closets holding them often have louvered doors or vents.
Warning signs of a venting problem
What to do
- IfYou smell gasThenLeave and call 911 or SoCalGas from outside.
- IfA carbon monoxide alarm sounds or people feel unwellThenGet everyone into fresh air and call 911.
- IfYou see soot, scorching or a disconnected ventThenTurn the heater off and call a licensed plumber before using it again.
- IfThe closet door was replaced with a solid oneThenAsk a plumber whether the heater still has enough combustion air.
Safety basics
- Gas service
- SoCalGas provides natural gas in Brea and responds to gas leak reports
- CO alarms
- Install carbon monoxide alarms as required for California homes with gas appliances
- Clearances
- Keep stored items, paint and solvents away from the heater
- Straps
- Seismic straps help keep the vent and gas line from pulling apart in an earthquake
What a plumber should check
- Is the vent the correct size and material for this heater?
- Are all vent joints secure and sloped correctly?
- Does the heater have enough combustion air where it sits?
- Is the gas connection leak-free with a shutoff valve and a flexible connector?
- Does the heater draft properly when it fires?
Common questions
Who do I call about a gas smell in Brea?
Leave the home and call 911 or SoCalGas from outside. Do not try to find the leak yourself.
Can a water heater cause carbon monoxide?
Yes, if it burns poorly or its exhaust spills because the vent is blocked, disconnected or undersized. Working CO alarms and a correctly vented heater are the defenses.
Can I store things next to my water heater?
Keep the area clear, especially of anything flammable. Clutter can block combustion air and the low air intake on newer gas heaters.
General information for Brea, not a quote or professional advice. In an emergency, call 911.