How far must a water heater be installed from the front of an electrical breaker box?

The correct distance that a water heater must be installed from the front of an electrical breaker box is 3 feet. This requirement is established to ensure safety and accessibility. Maintaining this distance allows for safe operation, access to the breaker box for maintenance or emergency shutoff, and minimizes the risk of accidental contact with electrical components while servicing the water heater.

In practice, adhering to this distance is crucial not only for safety regulations but also for creating adequate working space around electrical equipment. This space is necessary for technicians to work effectively without the risk of injury or electrical hazards. Therefore, understanding the rationale behind this requirement is important for anyone involved in installation and maintenance of water heaters in accordance with electrical codes.