Hi-efficient water heater exhaust @ A/C compressor

[msteger]

At yesterday morning's inspection, I found the PVC vent for exhausting the gas fired hi-efficient direct vented water heater blowing on the A/C compressor. There was approx. a 12" gap between the two. I know there is an issue with a dryer vent doing something similar (due to lint build-up), but what about the heat the water heater exhaust is blowing onto the A/C compressor? I would some acidic gases could corrode the unit over time, but I see nothing in Code Check or IRC about not venting water heaters near A/C units.

[Terence McCann]

Not very smart for sure.

From your post you know what the problem is - just explain it to your client.

[Eric B]

That installation is a problem down the road. The problem with always depending what a code says is that they're minimalistic and do not necessarily represent best practice for the long term. Remember in school? You only needed to get a D- to pass.

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[msteger]

Thanks guys. Guess I just wanted confirmation of my thoughts. I delivered the report yesterday to the client and noted about the vent being nearby the A/C compressor and potential issues down the road.