How close can you install a cadet wall heater to a bathtub?

[mtlogcabin]

The recommended distance is 24 inches within the installation instructions. Contractors are claiming it is just a recommendation therefore, it is not required by the manufacturer to maintain that distance. The bathrooms are quite small and this results in the heaters being 19" away from the tubs.
What do you think?
Does the electrical code have any input on the placement of the heater or requirements that would address this issue?

 

[Paul Sweet]

Does the UL (or other) listing specify a minimum distance?

 

[BN4537]

Does the electrical code have any input on the placement of the heater or requirements that would address this issue?

Not if it is hardwired.

New to the 2020 NEC, there is a horizontal clearance requirement of 3' between any receptacle and the tub or shower. (406.9(C)), so as long as it is hardwired or plugged into a receptacle that is at least 3' horizontally from the tub, it would be legal per NEC as long as it is not directly over the tub.

 

[Gregg Harris]

Cadet Engineer Dragos Craciun said. In other words, if you follow our clearance requirements, hook up your heater to the proper power source and use them in conjunction with the correct parts as intended, your heater meets the UL safety standards.

I believe the verbiage in the instructions was reworded by whom ever wrote it for the MFG. it speaks as a third party in stating" the MFG recommends"
the beginning verbiage starting with "Do not install" is the same as NEC 406.9c