Trapeze.

[ICE]

When inspecting a furnace in an attic, do you ask for mechanical restraints that will limit movement, both vertical and horizontal. The appliance in the picture is not secured in any direction. So why would this matter? If the unit gains motion during an earthquake, there is the potential for damage. An inch or two or feet, something gets broken.
I don't recall any contractor disputing the correction... plenty of them complained out loud but how could there be an argument.

 

[Yankee Chronicler]

Heck, California requires water heaters sitting on the floor to be strapped to a wall. How could any licensed mechanic install that unit without lateral restraints?

Am I assuming a fact not in evidence in suggesting that the installer was licensed?

 

[ICE]

Heck, California requires water heaters sitting on the floor to be strapped to a wall. How could any licensed mechanic install that unit without lateral restraints?

Am I assuming a fact not in evidence in suggesting that the installer was licensed?

The assumption that a contractor’s license makes a difference is incorrect. Knowing that the majority of the HVAC replacements are accomplished without any permits, I can’t say for sure, but I doubt that there are many unlicensed mechanical contractors out there. It’s mostly licensed guys that bid the job both ways and leave it up to the customer regarding whether or not permits are obtained.

The correction to secure the unit was almost a given with every furnace that was hung from the rafters.