Location of gas shut off valve for appliances - InspectionNews

Len Couey · #1 (**permalink**) 09-06-2009, 01:44 PM

As stated in IRC 2006 2420.5 equipment shut off valve, I would like to know what is considered accessiable, is it just where the appliance(stove) can be moved out then the valve is accessable.??
Thanks
Len Couey

A.D. Miller · #2 (**permalink**) 09-06-2009, 02:51 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Len Couey

As stated in IRC 2006 2420.5 equipment shut off valve, I would like to know what is considered accessiable, is it just where the appliance(stove) can be moved out then the valve is accessable.??
Thanks
Len Couey

LC: Yes. As long as you can reach the valve by moving the appliance it is considered accessible.

Len Couey · #3 (**permalink**) 09-06-2009, 03:19 PM

Thanks, AD I have had a running battle with the client that has become pretty heated on their part. I have my code certs but have not been able to convince them of the code.
Thanks
Len C

Matt Fellman · #4 (**permalink**) 09-06-2009, 03:35 PM

One of the many things I've learned here is that those shut-offs are for service and not for emergencies. That usually clears it up in people's minds. I've had the same topic come up with clients in the past.

Jerry Peck · #5 (**permalink**) 09-06-2009, 03:35 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Len Couey

I would like to know what is considered accessiable,

G2420.1.3 (409.1.3) Access to shutoff valves. Shutoff valves shall be located in places so as to provide access for operation and shall be installed so as to be protected from damage.

ACCESSIBLE. Signifies access that requires the removal of an access panel or similar removable obstruction.

An "appliance" is a "similar removable obstruction" in that an access panel may screwed and secured in place, whereas the appliance can be slid in and out.

Philip Ngai · #6 (**permalink**) 09-23-2009, 02:21 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Len Couey

Thanks, AD I have had a running battle with the client that has become pretty heated on their part. I have my code certs but have not been able to convince them of the code.

Hi, Len. Could you describe what the client is thinking?

Personally, I like my clothes dryer's gas valve above the dryer just like the washer's hot and cold water valves. I don't claim that this is required by code but as long as cost is not an issue, it seems clearly superior to me, don't you agree?

Jerry Peck · #7 (**permalink**) 09-23-2009, 02:33 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Philip Ngai

Personally, I like my clothes dryer's gas valve above the dryer just like the washer's hot and cold water valves. I don't claim that this is required by code but as long as cost is not an issue, it seems clearly superior to me, don't you agree?

No Len, but I disagree.

That would make the valve, the gas line, and / or the gas connector susceptible to physical damage. As long as it is below the top of the clothes dryer, then somewhat higher up on the wall than near the floor would be okay, as long as the valve was not stubbed straight out from the wall and allowed the gas connector to connect to the valve parallel with the wall and not have to make a 90 degree bend in the gas connector.

But I'm not even sure I would want it up there.

What is the difference between a clothes dryer and a range, where would you like to see the valve for the gas range? Up above the gas range? Why or why not?

Same reasoning and logic should apply to those two appliances.

Philip Ngai · #8 (**permalink**) 09-23-2009, 02:45 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Jerry Peck

What is the difference between a clothes dryer and a range, where would you like to see the valve for the gas range? Up above the gas range? Why or why not?

The better analogy is between the washer and dryer, as the top of the dryer does not get hot and greasy like a range.

Would you put your washer's water supply valves low on the floor, behind the washer where they are impossible to access without moving the appliance?

I understand that moving the appliance is allowed by code, but isn't it better to not have to if you have a choice?

Jerry Peck · #9 (**permalink**) 09-23-2009, 02:50 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Philip Ngai

The better analogy is between the washer and dryer, as the top of the dryer does not get hot and greasy like a range.

I've never seen a gas washer, so that analogy does not make sense to me.

With the washer you are talking about WATER, with the dryer you are talking about GAS, two really different things with really different requirements, and really different outcomes should there be a leak.

John Kogel · #10 (**permalink**) 09-27-2009, 08:54 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Jerry Peck

I've never seen a gas washer, so that analogy does not make sense to me.

With the washer you are talking about WATER, with the dryer you are talking about GAS, two really different things with really different requirements, and really different outcomes should there be a leak.

I tell clients the valve is for service techs. "If you smell gas, don't touch anything, leave the house, call the fire dept. and they will turn off the main valve outside."

Rob Omstead · #11 (**permalink**) 09-28-2009, 02:21 AM

I agree with John and make your client aware of the location of the main shutoff outside.