Commercially available strapping kits make this a relatively easy process. These can be found in many hardware stores on the aisle displaying the water heaters. These kits come complete with the strapping, lag screws, washers, spacers and tension bolts.

You can also choose to assemble the strapping materials yourself using heavy-gage metal straps and 3-inch lag screws.

To prevent the tank from tipping backwards, there should be very little space between it and the wall. If there is more than 1 or 2 inches, attach a wooden block to the wall with long lag screws.

Wrap the heavy-gauge metal strapping 1-1/2 times around the tank. Start by placing the strapping at the back of the tank. Bring it to the front and then take it back to the wall.

Secure this strapping to the wall studs or the wood block using several 1/4-inch x 3-inch or longer lag screws with oversized washers.

If you are securing it directly into concrete, use 1/4-inch expansion bolts in place of the screws.

Water can easily be accessed by connecting a garden hose to the drain spout, and by opening a faucet somewhere in the house.

Make sure the electricity or natural gas is off before opening the drain.