Gas water heaters benefit from a boost off the floor, and the best way to achieve this is with water heater stands. As the name suggests, water heater stands keep your water heater from resting directly on the floor by using a platform or stand to support it at an elevated level.
In this PlumbingNav review, we will cover the following:
- Top 5 best water heater stands reviewed.
- What do you look for in the water heater stand?
- What are the different types of water heater stands?
- How do water heater stands work?
- And some water heater stands related FAQs.
| Image | Product | |||
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Our Top Pick  | Our Top Pick | Everflow GWHS21 Galvanized Steel
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| View on Amazon |
Best Budget  | Best Budget | Camco Galvanized Steel
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| View on Amazon |
Best High-End  | Best High-End | Holdrite 50-SWHP Hanging QuickStand
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| View on Amazon |
Best Commercial  | Best Commercial | Holdrite 40-S-24-U QuickStand
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| View on Amazon |
Good Option  | Good Option | Eastman 86279 Galvanized Steel (Temp out of Stock)
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| View on Amazon |
Our Top 5 Water Heater Stands
- Everflow GWHS21 Galvanized Steel (Our Top Pick)
- Camco Galvanized Steel (Best Budget)
- Holdrite 50-SWHP Hanging QuickStand (Best High-End)
- Holdrite 40-S-24-U QuickStand (Best Commercial)
- Eastman 86279 Galvanized Steel (Temp out of Stock) (Good Option)
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Best Water Heater Stands Reviewed
See our picks for the top 5 water heater stands and what makes them a great accessory. These products will work for standard 50-gallon water heaters, but some are rated to hold larger commercial units as well.
Our #1 Rated Pick: Everflow GWHS21 Galvanized Steel
Measurements: 21” x 21” x 18”
Raise a 52-gallon water heater up to 650 lbs. 18 inches up from the ground with this 18-gauge galvanized steel water heater stand. This product comes with two seismic clips to secure it to the ground. You can trust the product to last without fear of corrosion or damage.
Pros
- Made with 18-gauge galvanized steel
- 18” height meets regulations
- Multiple acceptable uses
Cons
- Assembly required
- No warranty
- Can only mount to floor
| Color | Chrome |
| Material | Steel |
| Installation Method | Countertop |
| Capacity | 52 Gallons |
| Durability | 18-gauge heavy-duty galvanized steel for reliable heater support |
| Cost Efficiency | Protects property from damage, saving thousands of dollars |
| Height | Idea height that complies with codes is perfect for property protection and easy to reach. |
Our #2 Rated Pick: Camco Galvanized Steel
Measurements: 21” x 21” x 18”
This Camco 18-gauge stainless steel water heater stand supports a 50-gallon water heater less than 21” in diameter 18” above the ground. This product doesn’t bolt to the floor, but most homeowners find it easy to install. It comes with a one-year limited warranty.
Pros
- Made of 18-gauge stainless steel
- Meets UPC Standards
- Zinc coating prevents corrosion
Cons
- Cannot bolt the stand to the floor
- Not rated for larger water heaters
- Not easy to paint
| Color | silver |
| Material | Steel |
| Item Weight | 7.5 Pounds |
| Capacity | 50 Gallons |
| Assemble Requirement | Minimal |
| Uses | Can be used for most residential water heaters. |
| Height | Idea height that complies with codes is perfect for property protection and easy to reach. |
Our #3 Rated Pick: Holdrite 50-SWHP Hanging QuickStand
Measurements: 26.5” x 26.5” x 2.5”
This ceiling platform water heater stand can hold a 50-gallon water heater up to 600 lbs, and it comes with a drain pan that drips water from the bottom. You can hang the product from either concrete or framed ceilings with either the ⅜” or ½” hanging rod.
This product comes pre-assembled, so you don’t need to build anything, and it comes with a lifetime warranty.
Pros
- Drip pan included
- Pre-assembled
- Large base can accommodate multiple shapes
Cons
- Requires a lot of space
- Expensive
- Heavy (almost 35 lbs.)
| Color | Aluminum |
| Material | Steel |
| Warranty | lifetime |
| Capacity | Up to 50 Gallons or 600-pound load |
| Product Weight | 35 pounds |
| Adaptability | Can be installed on concrete or framed walls |
| Versatility | Can easily support other equipment such as tanks, washers, boilers |
Our #4 Rated Pick: Holdrite 40-S-24-U QuickStand
Measurements: 24” x 24” x 16”
Hold up a 100-gallon water heater tank that weighs as much as 1200 pounds with this galvanized steel water heater stand. Homeowners can bolt the stand to the floor with two safety clips, and it works with concrete walls.
Consumers can rely on the Holdrite name and the lifetime warranty that the product will last and work as expected.
Pros
- Made in USA
- Lifetime warranty
- Supports 100-gallon water heaters up to 1200 pounds
Cons
- Expensive
- Heavy (26 lbs.)
- Screws that come with the product are weak
| Color | Steel |
| Material | Alloy Steel |
| Item Weight | 26.5 pounds |
| Capacity | 100 Gallons |
| Warranty | Lifetime |
| Adaptability | Can be installed on concrete or framed walls |
| Versatility | Can easily support other equipment such as tanks, washers, boilers |
Our #5 Rated Pick: Eastman 86279 Galvanized Steel (Temp out of Stock)
Measurement: 24” x 24” x 18”
100-gallon water heaters up to 1200 pounds can safely fit onto this stainless steel water heater stand that is 18 inches tall. You can secure the stand to either the floor or the wall, depending on your preference.
Pros
- Holds up to 100-gallon water heaters
- Connect water heater to floor or wall
- Made in USA
Cons
- Accessories scattered in the box
- No warranty
- Not suitable for outdoor use
| Color | Silver |
| Material | High-quality galvanized steel |
| Item Weight | 0.48 ounces |
| Capacity | Up to 100 Gallons or 1,200 pounds |
| Safety | Comes with safety clips to secure the stand to the wall or the floor for stability. |
What Are Hot Water Heater Stands?
Water heater stands refer to elevated platforms that lift water heaters off of the floor, usually at a height of 18 inches. Most people use water heater stands to prevent fire hazards as well as damage to the water heater.
If gas or another flammable liquid spills onto the floor near a gas water heater, it can create an explosion if the flammable liquid comes into contact with the flame from the pilot light.
Additionally, if the room that houses the water heater experiences flooding, the water can put out the pilot light and damage the components in the unit.
Water Heater Stand Requirements
According to the Uniform Plumbing Code, any water heater with a flame must rest 18” above the ground, especially in garages or basements. Local regulations may have even stricter standards, so research local building codes in your area to learn more.
If you’re in California, check height requirements before buying earthquake straps to better prep your installation.
Special Note: You should still use a water heater drain pan, and this will rest on top of the stand itself.
What to Consider When Buying a Water Heater Stand?
The finest water heater stands are made from durable materials. They have a rating that indicates they can support the size of your specific water heater.
Materials
The most common water heater stand materials include galvanized steel or aluminum. Steel costs more but tends to support more weight and last longer. Aluminum, however, provides a low-cost option that will work as expected.
Some people will attempt to place water heaters on wooden stands or bricks. Still, steel makes a much more reliable option and resists moisture/fire much better.
Size/Shape
Water heater stands need to properly support the water heater evenly to prevent the water heater from falling.
Start by learning the exact measurements of your water heater to ensure that it sits in the middle of your stand without one part of the water heater getting more support than others. It also means getting the proper shape.
How Much Do Water Heaters Weigh?
To calculate the weight of a water heater, you need to determine the weight of the water heater itself and the water inside of it.
Water heaters tend to weigh about 2.5 lbs per gallon they hold, but that varies based on the product. A 50-gallon water heater tends to weigh roughly 125 lbs. A 100-gallon tank, on the other hand, weighs an average of 250 lbs.
The water inside of the tank accounts for a large portion of the weight. Water weighs just under 8.5 lbs per gallon. The water in a full 50-gallon tank weighs 425 lbs. A full 100-gallon tank weighs 850 lbs.
Of course, you need to add the water heater’s weight to the water’s weight. A full 50-gallon tank weighs 550 lbs. A full 100-gallon tank weighs 1100 pounds.
What Are the Different Types Of Water Heater Stand Platforms?
The main difference you will notice among different water heater stand platforms involves how it attaches to your home.
Most stands resemble small tables, with some of them able to attach to the floor. Naturally, you want as much support as possible, so attaching the stand to the floor will increase the product’s strength.
Some products attach to the wall or ceiling. While this setup may appear precarious, you can trust its ability to support your water heater properly as long as you adhere to the recommended size requirements.
FAQs for Hot Water Heater Stands
How Do Water Heater Stands Work?
A water heater stand supports your water heater so that it doesn’t need to rest on the ground. Of course, for the water heater stand to work correctly, it needs to handle the weight of the water heater.
Should your water heater be on a stand or platform?
The Uniform Plumbing Code mandates that a natural gas tank water heater needs to be placed at least 18 inches off the ground. It is because if you set gas heaters on the ground, they will be more prone to blowing up. After all, the pilot flame will come into contact with the ground.
So, you can use any of our water mentioned above heater shelves or platforms to abide by the code and get stylish and reliable support.
Can an electric water heater sit directly on the floor?
It is not a problem for an electric water heater to be placed on the ground, but you should make sure it is not covered in dust or dirt. You should also make use of a drain pan which will help safeguard your floor against leaks.
Additionally, make sure your floor is level. However, some local code enforcement authorities may demand you elevate your water regardless. So it’s better to check with them.
Nevertheless, whether the local ordinances require it or not, using a water heater stand is usually a good idea to prevent any water heater from coming into contact with moisture. Excess moisture on the outside of the tank can accelerate the corrosion process, and result in your water heater leaking from the bottom.
Can a water heater sit on wood?
Yes, you can install a gas water heater on the wood. However, it isn’t advisable. If the tank leaks, water will run down the wood and weaken it.
Even if no leaks occur, your wood floor will eventually rot due to the natural process of absorbing moisture from the bottom of the tank. The tank’s weight will then become too much for the wood floor to support.
Therefore, it’s not a good idea for your water heater—especially a gas water heater—to sit on the wood. Be sure to use a water heater drain pan if you don’t have overhead clearance to make use of a stand.
Conclusion
Water heater stands are great accessories that can protect your gas water heater from corrosive water damage to the tank. They can be seen as safety products to also help prevent possible explosions due to flammable vapors in the ignition area.
They involve easy assembly to also help homeowners meet the elevation requirements due to the Uniform Plumbing Code in areas that require them.
All the best water heater stands use galvanized steel in their construction to properly support the weight of your water heater tank while full.
Consider our top 5 water heater stand suggestions and find the one that best suits you.
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