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While your water heater is crucial for your home’s plumbing, it can also be an eyesore in your living space.
Fortunately, many creative and practical hot water heater enclosure ideas can help you conceal and protect this necessary appliance while enhancing the aesthetic appeal of your home.
Whether you want to maximize your space or simply keep your water heater out of sight, we have an idea that will work for you. So, let’s dive into our collection and find the perfect solution for your home.
14 Hot Water Heater Enclosure Ideas
1. Square metal grill
A square metal grill is an affordable and straightforward way to conceal your water heater. This solution allows for proper ventilation and airflow while still covering the unit.
You can paint the grill to match your decor or leave it with its natural industrial appearance. It is easy to install and can be removed effortlessly for maintenance.
This is your ideal solution to keep your water heater out of sight without breaking the bank.
2. Hanging storage unit
If you’re short on floor space, consider this practical idea. It’s a great way to utilize vertical space while keeping your heater hidden.
You can store cleaning supplies, extra towels, or other household items in the unit. Ensure the unit’s weight is properly supported and won’t damage the enclosure.
3. Bifold doors
Bifold doors have gained popularity as an option for water heater enclosures due to their ease of use and quick access to the unit.
These doors come in various materials, such as wood or metal; however, wood is commonly preferred. You can customize the bi-fold doors to match the decor and theme of your space.
Moreover, bifold doors can be locked for enhanced security and safety, ensuring that children or pets don’t accidentally come into contact with the water heater.
4. Horizontal slat wood cabinets
If you prefer a more seamless look, a cabinet made from horizontal slat wood can be installed around your water heater to create a built-in look. They provide ample storage space and can be painted to match your cabinetry.
5. Curtains
Consider hanging curtains around your water heater for a simple and affordable solution. It’s an excellent option for renters or those on a budget.
You can choose curtains in any color or pattern to match your decor, and they can be easily removed for maintenance.
However, be sure to choose flame-retardant curtains that won’t easily melt away when they come into direct contact with the water heater.
6. Screen
With a little creativity, you can transform dull necessities in your home into beautiful and functional additions.
Using horizontal wooden slats provides ventilation and airflow and adds an eye-catching visual interest.
You can add small planter boxes on the sides to spice things up and make the enclosure more functional.
7. Pallets
Pallets are a creative and budget-friendly option for those running on a budget. They can be stacked and secured around the unit to create a rustic and charming look.
You can paint the pallets to match your existing decor or leave them with their natural appearance.
8. Closet
This is a great option for those who want to keep their water heater out of sight and have additional storage space. You can install shelves or racks to store cleaning supplies or other household items.
9. Faux cabinet
A faux cabinet is a clever way to conceal your water heater without actually installing a cabinet.
It involves creating a frame around the water heater and attaching doors matching your cabinetry. The faux cabinet is a cost-effective and stylish solution that can add value to your home.
10. Aluminum cabinet
Aluminum cabinets are a lightweight and durable option for water heater enclosures and can easily be customized to fit the dimensions of your water heater.
Additionally, they are resistant to rust and corrosion, making them an ideal choice for outdoor installations. Ensuring the aluminum cabinet is adequately ventilated is vital to prevent safety hazards.
11. Plant some flowers on it
Another beautiful and practical way to conceal your unit is to be environmentally aware. The enclosure features a wooden frame with horizontal slats that provide ventilation and airflow to the water heater while hiding it from view.
The use of wood gives the enclosure a warm and natural feel that blends seamlessly with the surrounding environment.
A potted plant on top of the enclosure adds a touch of greenery and further integrates the unit into the outdoor space.
12. Blend it with the house.
If you want your water heater to blend in seamlessly with your home, you can opt for an enclosure that matches the exterior of your house.
And this can be achieved using the same siding or paint color on the enclosure as the rest of your home.
Thus creating a cohesive and polished look that won’t detract from the overall aesthetic of your home.
13. Frame shade
If you’re looking for a simple, cost-effective way to hide your water heater, a frame shade may be the perfect solution.
This option is especially ideal for outdoor installations, as it provides a shaded area around the unit while allowing for proper ventilation and airflow.
The frame shade is a wooden frame with an open design on the sides, covered by a roof to create a shaded area.
Additionally, frame shades require minimal materials and are easy to install, making them an excellent option for those on a budget. Plus, they can be easily removed for maintenance purposes.
14. Cylindrical enclosure
Is your water heater cylindrical in shape? If so, here is a design that best works in your space.
The unit can be constructed from material, such as particleboard or MDF, and is curved, ensuring efficient use of space, allowing it to be placed in a corner or other out-of-the-way location without taking up too much floor space.
The enclosure should be approximately the same diameter as the hot water tank to provide a snug fit that keeps the tank securely in place.
Safety First: Avoiding Flammable Items Near Heating Appliances
It is essential to exercise caution and be aware of potential hazards when dealing with household appliances, especially those that generate heat.
One such device that requires careful handling is the burner access of a water heater. These access points are crucial for the proper functioning of the heating system but can pose a significant fire risk if handled incorrectly.
Avoiding objects near the burner access point is crucial to prevent potential accidents. This is especially true for flammable items such as combustible materials like blankets or linen.
Any combustible item left near the burner access point can quickly catch fire and cause extensive damage to your property.
Furthermore, avoiding storing items susceptible to moisture damage in the water heater closet is important.
Books, papers, and other such materials can easily become damp and damaged in a moist environment.
Factors to Consider When Building a Hot Water Heater Enclosure
What important things must you remember while constructing your water heater cover? To make sure that the unit is secure and practical, you must take into account the following;
Size
The water heater’s size must be considered while constructing the hiding unit. To achieve a tight fit inside the enclosure, measuring the heater’s height, breadth, and depth is essential.
A too-small enclosure puts undue stress on the heater, which is not good, while a too-large unit can take up unnecessary space.
Ventilation
With proper ventilation, air circulation will be at maximum, preventing overheating, which can be a fire hazard.
The enclosure should have openings or vents allowing airflow to ensure proper ventilation. The size of the unit and the location of the water heater determines the placement of the vents.
It is important to consult with a professional if you are unsure about the ventilation requirements for your heater unit.
Accessibility
When selecting a cover for your water heater, ensure it allows for effortless maintenance and repair. A hinged or detachable top is often the preferred choice as it grants easy access to the tank.
However, it’s crucial to consider the top’s dimensions and weight to ensure it can be lifted or removed by a single person without any hassle.
A simple option involves an enclosure with a door that will allow you to lock it, especially if you have kids.
Location of the heater
Depending on the design of your house, you could have your water heater on the inside or outside of the house. And this somewhat determines the type of material and design of your water heater cover unit.
Indoor enclosures should be made of materials resistant to moisture and humidity, such as treated wood. These materials are less prone to warping or rotting, which can compromise the enclosure’s structural integrity.
On the other hand, outdoor enclosures should be weather-resistant and durable to protect the heater from the elements.
Materials like metal or plastic are often used for outdoor enclosures, as they can withstand rain, wind, and extreme temperatures.
Material
The material you use in making the enclosing unit affects the durability and overall appearance. Commonly used materials include wood, metal, and plastic.
Wood is favored for its natural beauty but requires regular upkeep to prevent damage from moisture and pests.
While durable and weather-resistant, metal enclosures may rust or corrode over time. Plastic and composite materials are popular low-maintenance options that resist moisture well, but they may not match wood or metal’s durability or aesthetic appeal.
Ultimately, the choice of material will depend on your priorities and needs for your water heater enclosure.
Conclusion
Any home can benefit from adding water heater enclosure ideas because they offer both aesthetic appeal and practical advantages.
An enclosure can help enhance the area’s appearance by concealing an unsightly water heater and allowing easy access for maintenance and repair. This keeps the hot water supply operating efficiently.
It is essential to consider elements like size, accessibility, ventilation, and material when constructing an enclosure.
With the right water heater enclosure, you can enjoy the benefits of a functional and stylish addition to your home.
