Can a water heater be retrofitted with a drip pan after installation without removing the water heater unit?

Question

I have heard of base-surround retrofit enclosures for a water heater but have not been able to find anyone that manufacturers or installs these types of systems. Anyone have any ideas of how to retrofit a water heater with a drip pan after it has been installed without removing the unit?

Answer 1

You will have to drain the unit/ lift it2 or3 inches/slip the pan under it then set it down.As long as your preasure release valve is plumbed to the outside you shouldn't need a pan till your heater starts to leak.In which case you can put a pan in with the new one(much eaiser).

Answer 2

nope you still have to drain and lift it

Answer 3

Come on now, think about this. A 40 gallon water heater will weigh in at 320 lbs. plus the weight of the water heater.

I don't think you want to do that. A 50 gallon is even more.