Understanding Kansas City, KS Water Heater Codes and Fees
In Kansas City, KS, water heater installations are overseen by the Building Codes Department to ensure the safety and functionality of the system. At KC Water Heaters, we’re equipped to handle the permit process and ensure that all installations meet the specific Kansas City building codes. These key requirements include:
- The mandatory installation of a thermal expansion tank on all water heaters, due to the presence of check valves in water meters installed by BPU from the early 2000’s to about 2015, which cause thermal expansion.
- Water pressure should not exceed 80psi. However, as water pressure can fluctuate with BPU, a Pressure Reducing Valve (PRV) is typically recommended.
- Vent connectors must adhere to fuel gas chart sizing tables.
- There should be 18″ of copper from the top of the water heater. No pex or plastic within 6″ of single wall venting.
- Vent connector should be at least 6″ away from any combustibles.
- Smoke detector & Carbon Monoxide detector located near mechanical room & bedrooms.
- Adequate combustion passage to basement and mechanical room required.
In addition to adhering to these codes, it’s important to factor in certain fees when installing a new water heater in Kansas City, KS: Kansas City Kansas has some of the highest permit and occupational license fee’s in all of KC.
Kansas City KS Building Codes Division (913) 573-8620
BuildingInspection@wycokck.org
- Permit Fee: $30
- Annual Business License Fee: $252
- Contractor/Plumbing License Fee: $100
- Bond $50 per yr
Water Pressure in Kansas City, KS
Water pressure in Kansas City, KS can fluctuate, especially since the local water provider, BPU, has installed check valves in the water meters from the early 2000’s to about 2015. This has led to thermal expansion. As a result, a Pressure Reducing Valve (PRV) is typically recommended to manage this issue.
Water Quality in Kansas City, KS
Water quality in KCK isn’t always the best. Although many areas served by BPU don’t have high or excessive water pressure we seem to see a lot of tanks fail early here. This is likely due to fluctuating water pressure or sudden increases. We do not recommend installing a water softener as it will usually shorten the lifespan of the water heater.
As the original water heater specialists for the Kansas City area, KC Water Heaters is here to guide you through the process of water heater installation, ensuring adherence to local codes, and providing expert advice tailored to your unique situation.