Flammable Vapor Ignition Resistance (FVIR)
Flammable Vapor Ignition Resistance (FVIR) is a safety feature in gas water heaters that prevents ignition of flammable vapors from gasoline, solvents, or cleaners. FVIR designs use sealed combustion, flame arrestors, and controlled air intake to contain or extinguish vapors before they can ignite. Since the early 2000s, FVIR has been required on most residential gas water heaters.
💡 Key Takeaways
- ✓Flammable Vapor Ignition Resistance (FVIR) is a safety feature in gas water heaters that prevents ignition of flammable vapors from gasoline, solvents, or cleaners. FVIR designs use sealed combustion, flame arrestors, and controlled air intake to contain or extinguish vapors before they can ignite. Since the early 2000s, FVIR has been required on most residential gas water heaters.
- ✓FVIR applies to gas water heaters, not electric models.
- ✓Clogged flame arrestors can cause shutdowns or poor performance.
- ✓Safe storage of fuels and solvents is still essential.
Flammable Vapor Ignition Resistance (FVIR)
/ˈflæməbəl ˈveɪpər ɪɡˈnɪʃən rɪˈzɪstəns (FVIR)/
Definition
Flammable Vapor Ignition Resistance (FVIR) is a safety feature in gas water heaters that prevents ignition of flammable vapors from gasoline, solvents, or cleaners. FVIR designs use sealed combustion, flame arrestors, and controlled air intake to contain or extinguish vapors before they can ignite. Since the early 2000s, FVIR has been required on most residential gas water heaters.
What does FVIR do on a gas water heater?
It prevents flammable vapors from igniting at the burner by controlling airflow and containing flames.
Source: The Cooling Company
Quick Facts
How Flammable Vapor Ignition Resistance (FVIR) Works
FVIR protects against flammable vapor ignition.
Real-World Application
In a garage installation, FVIR technology prevents a gasoline spill from igniting at the water heater, reducing fire risk.
Pro Tip
Keep the air intake and flame arrestor clean, and never store flammable liquids near the water heater.
“Keep the air intake and flame arrestor clean, and never store flammable liquids near the water heater.”
Important Things to Keep in Mind
- FVIR applies to gas water heaters, not electric models.
- Clogged flame arrestors can cause shutdowns or poor performance.
- Safe storage of fuels and solvents is still essential.
Did You Know?
FVIR standards were adopted after a series of flammable vapor ignition incidents in garages and basements.
FAQ
Does FVIR eliminate all fire risk?
It greatly reduces ignition risk, but safe storage of flammables is still required.
Can FVIR components be cleaned?
Yes. A technician can clean the flame arrestor and intake to restore airflow.
Why did my FVIR water heater shut down?
A clogged arrestor or restricted intake can cause safety shutdowns.
Related Services
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