If a water heater is installed in a metal pan, what is the minimum thickness of the pan?

The minimum thickness of a metal pan used to install a water heater is established to ensure durability and effectiveness in containing any potential leaks or spills from the water heater. In this case, the specification of 0.0236 inches for the thickness of the pan reflects industry standards that aim to provide sufficient strength and resistance to corrosion, guaranteeing long-term performance and safety.

Choosing this specific thickness allows the pan to adequately support the weight of the water heater and withstand the heat and humidity typically present in such an environment. Thinner materials may not offer the same level of reliability and could lead to failures over time, such as warping or rusting, which compromises the pan's ability to function as intended.

Therefore, selecting 0.0236 inches represents a balance between material cost and effective utility, ensuring compliance with plumbing codes while providing an acceptable margin of safety for homeowners and inspectors alike.