A forum community dedicated to professional woodworkers and enthusiasts. Looks like it was teflon taped, tightened to tank, then soldered , cooking the upper adapter sealant. VerticalScope Inc., 111 Peter Street, Suite 600, Toronto, Ontario, M5V 2H1, Canada. Overall, installing dielectric nipples on your water heater is a simple and effective way to ensure that your water heater functions properly and lasts for many years to come. {"appState":{"pageLoadApiCallsStatus":true},"articleState":{"article":{"headers":{"creationTime":"2016-03-26T19:05:27+00:00","modifiedTime":"2016-03-26T19:05:27+00:00","timestamp":"2022-09-14T18:08:15+00:00"},"data":{"breadcrumbs":[{"name":"Home, Auto, & Hobbies","_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/categories/33809"},"slug":"home-auto-hobbies","categoryId":33809},{"name":"Home Improvement & Appliances","_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/categories/33939"},"slug":"home-improvement-appliances","categoryId":33939},{"name":"General Home Improvement & Appliances","_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/categories/33961"},"slug":"general-home-improvement-appliances","categoryId":33961}],"title":"How to Replace a Water Heater Dip Tube","strippedTitle":"how to replace a water heater dip tube","slug":"how-to-replace-a-water-heater-dip-tube","canonicalUrl":"","seo":{"metaDescription":"When the hot water in your shower suddenly turns ice cold, you have the right to be frustrated. It conducts electricity. But if you find even slight holes, cracks or corrosion, toss them into the trash. The discharge tube of a tank type water heater is made of a different metal as an anode (sacrificial tube) that is replaceable, and will corrode first if you don't use a dielectric fitting. Two 3/4-in x 3-in heat trap nipples. If you really want to keep the heat trap, extend the nipple with a coupler and another nipple. NPT x 3 in. When this condition arises, a cracked or broken dip tube is usually to blame.
\nChanging a dip tube is easy:
\n- \n
Cut the power to the water heater.
\n \n Turn the cold-water inlet valve off.
\n \n Disconnect the cold-water supply line at the top of the water heater.
\nYoull need to break out a wrench for this step.
\n \n Remove the nipple to expose the top of the dip tube.
\nThe nipple is a short piece of pipe threaded at both ends.
\n \n Remove the dip tube by inserting a screwdriver and prying the tube out of the opening.
\nIts best to hold the screwdriver at an angle and use friction to pull out the dip tube.
\n \n Drop a new tube into the opening.
\n \n Replace the nipple and supply line, turn on the water and restore power to the unit and you should have hot water!
\n \n
James Carey and Morris Carey Jr. share their 55+ years of experience as award-winning, licensed contractors with millions of people nationwide through a weekly radio program and syndicated newspaper column, both titled On The House. You mentioned that the tank was installed in 2006, so it would be nearing the end of its life expectancy (most residential warranties are for 5 to 6 years) so I would keep an eye on the tank for any leaks. Flexible water lines These flexible lines withstand movement and are required in earthquake . This includes gloves and eye-wear. For a better experience, please enable JavaScript in your browser before proceeding. From what I remember from school science class, is that corrosion from electrolysis occurs when you have any two of these three things in contact dis similar metals, moisture and electricity. Avoid last-minute shopping trips by having all your materials ready ahead of time. The unions,. 3. 8. FrankC. If your Atwood water heater wont light, the first thing you should How Much Propane Does A Tankless Water Heater Use, Top 10 Best 80 Gallon Electric Water Heater (2022 Latest Price), Top 10 Best 20 Gallon Electric Water Heater For 2022 (Buying Guide), Best electric tankless water heater for rv, problems that can affect the efficiency of the water heater. The installation of dielectric nipples on water heaters is an essential process that helps prevent corrosion in the water heater. James Carey and Morris Carey Jr. share their 55+ years of experience as award-winning, licensed contractors with millions of people nationwide through a weekly radio program and syndicated newspaper column, both titled On The House. Disconnect the cold-water supply line at the top of the water heater. Browse other questions tagged, Start here for a quick overview of the site, Detailed answers to any questions you might have, Discuss the workings and policies of this site. Use whatever fittings you want. Some plumbers suggest removing the existing lines and putting longer, flexible, with the gooseneck in the line or long flex connector bent in a loop, and insulate with the thick insulation to reduce the heat loss through the pipes. I didn't get the memo on this. Be sure the coupler doesnt slide down as you heat it. But we recommend you start in the morning so you have plenty of time to get the job done and not leave your family without hot water overnight. Earthquake straps If the heat trap nipple has an arrow on its side, face the arrow toward the water heater. A water heater uses two heat trap nipples. Finally, set the thermostat to a safe temperature. Safety gear: Protective gloves and eyewear should be worn to prevent injury during the installation process. For tips on soldering copper pipe, search for solder above. If you'd like to support the site, please allow ads. That way the rest of the house will have cold water while you work (toilets will still work!). (That is, if the hot-water supply hasnt been drained due to recent use.) Youll need to break out a wrench for this step. If this anode tube corrodes/perforated the straw no longer receives the more stable hot water from the bottom of the tankit starts to receive the cooler incoming water through the perforations in the anode resulting in a temperature loss. Test for leaks by brushing soapy water onto every connection. Is Spider-Man the only Marvel character that has been represented as multiple non-human characters? If your valve doesnt look like this one, see Old gas valves can leak.. Thermoplastic lining prevents corrosion. Add 3/4 in. Layers of pipe sealing tape over the steel pipe this can be a pain in the instructions Directly into the steel pipe wire model and serial number to verify the for. You can also use a coupler that is male on one end and female on the other like a street elbow. A pipe wrench should be used to tighten the connections between the dielectric nipples and the water heater. NPT. Dummies helps everyone be more knowledgeable and confident in applying what they know. indianapolis indiana - land of the free, home of, Adapter advice and compression fitting nomenclature, Plumbing Forum, Professional & DIY Advice, Seepage between heater inlet and dielectric nipple, Trying to fix/update an OLD shallow well, this should be interesting. The grease-pack valves found in older homes tend to leak as they age. Utilitech 2-Pack Water Heater Dielectric Nipple Model # 9008072046 94 Two 3/4-in x 3-in heat trap nipples Improves the energy efficiency of a water heaters by reducing heat loss through inlet and outlet pipes PEX lining helps prevent corrosion that can occur when different metals are joined in water Find My Store for pricing and availability . When the faucet valve turns on, the check valve opens and allows unrestricted water flow into and out of the water heater. You can see where the water has been dripping and there is signs of calcium buildup. NPT x 3/4 in. You don't have to pay special attention to the water connections if your tank has brass or copper connectors, and the pipes in your house are copper. To subscribe to this RSS feed, copy and paste this URL into your RSS reader. Helping You to Do It Yourself! Then install nipples, followed by threaded fittings and stubs of pipe. Before beginning the installation process, it is essential to turn off the power supply and water supply to the water heater. Drip leg NPT x 3/4 in. The female adapter wont thread on. Flexible water lines The water heater can become hot during operation, so it is important to avoid contact with hot surfaces. These flexible lines withstand movement and are required in earthquake zones. Then screw the drip leg into the tee. Check with your trash hauler or recycling center to find out how to dispose of the old heater. I will check back in with pics and results. These plastic-lined nipples reduce corrosion and increase water heater life. Hand tighten the heat trap nipple. Many water heaters come with water. By clicking Post Your Answer, you agree to our terms of service and acknowledge that you have read and understand our privacy policy and code of conduct. If your gas line is copper or a flexible supply line, just unscrew the nut. 9. You'll need to break out a wrench for this step. Edited for adding pics below. If you found this video helpful, please like, share, comment or subscribe. Some water heaters come with dielectric nipples already installed (buy a set if yours doesnt have them). Thanks for contributing an answer to Home Improvement Stack Exchange! The check valve will melt or deform. JavaScript is disabled. Sturdy long-lasting construction. If the dip tube is cracked or broken, the cold water mixes with the hot water at the top of the tank (heat and hot water rise), resulting in your unwelcome early-morning shock. This can be done using a pipe wrench to loosen the connections between the nipples and the water heater. You are using an out of date browser. Rheem Manufacturing ranks as the global leader in the manufacture of high-quality, sustainable, and innovative water heaters, tankless water heaters, air conditioners, furnaces, pool heaters, and HVAC systems for residential and commercial applications, and is a full member of AHRI, the Air-Conditioning, Heating, & Refrigeration Institute. CEO Update: Paving the road forward with AI and community at the center, Building a safer community: Announcing our new Code of Conduct, AI/ML Tool examples part 3 - Title-Drafting Assistant, We are graduating the updated button styling for vote arrows, Water heater inlet corrosion after 4 years? Yes, turn off the gas if you're draining the tank. I am suspecting that maybe the nipple is corroding from the outside? Even if youve worked with plumbing and gas lines in the past, play it safe and contact your local department of inspections. Replacing an electric water heater is a little easier. Here are some safety precautions to keep in mind: Before installing the dielectric nipples on the water heater, certain preparation is necessary. This can be caused by improper installation or a damaged nipple. Use a pipe wrench to tighten the connections between the dielectric nipples and the water heater. Yes, dielectric nipples can be installed on any type of water heater, regardless of the brand or model. Start with the wrenches a quarter turn apart. How strong is a strong tie splice to weight placed in it from above? Hi and welcome sicilian97, to the best DIY'r site on the web, When its all said and done there is usually more said than done. Ask This Old House solves the steady stream of home improvement problems faced by our viewersand we make house calls! If you dont know how to handle these tasks, call in a professional plumber and expect to pay $80 to $150. To replace the valve, youll have to shut off the water at the main valve (usually near the meter). Lowe's website suggests using dielectric nipples. Even if your local code doesnt require replacement, we recommend you install a ball-type gas valve instead ($10). If the dialectic union were used in conjunction with this nipple it would provide electrical isolation from the copper - galvanize connection. They also appear regularly on CBS News Saturday Morning. This will prevent any accidents or damage to the water heater. Use to connect a water heater to the water inlet and . Next, cut the copper water lines with a tubing cutter (Photo 3). Plumbers in forums everywhere saying they do different things. I would be tempted to try a stainless nipple at tank. This is necessary to prevent any accidents or damage to the water heater. I am amazed at how little standardization there seems to be on this topic. Leave the faucet open until water flows out. Never use a reducer, even if the hoods opening is smaller than the vent pipe. However, now you can SEE that and replace them when it happens. Wait for the water heater to cool down before beginning the installation process to avoid burns. Bucket: A bucket is used to catch any water that may spill out during the installation process. Your "dialectric" nipple has an ABS plastic coating inside a galvanized steel pipe. To learn more, see our tips on writing great answers. The gloves will protect your hands from sharp edges, and the eye-wear will protect your eyes from debris. Expansion tank Water Heater Nipples,Water Heater Nipples. If you have copper corrugated water lines, simply disconnect the nuts at the water heater. While the installation process can be done on your own, it is important to take safety precautions and follow the steps carefully to ensure proper installation. Teflon tape: Teflon tape is used to seal the connections between the dielectric nipples and the water heater, preventing leaks. $15. It may not display this or other websites correctly. When the burner has been running for at least one minute, move an incense stick around the draft hood. If you use galvanized pipe, cut off the threads on the bottom to prevent someone from capping off the blow tube if the T&P valve leaks. Dielectric nipples do not have a specific lifespan, but they should be inspected periodically for damage or wear and replaced if necessary. So, two devices for the same purpose? It's a one time deal, you've got to do it right the first time. We might be able to do something about it. There is no dielectric union between these two metals. Now, we will discuss the benefits of using dielectric nipples in water heaters. Keep in mind; it's a bit challenging to pull out the nipple. Incorrect installation can lead to leakages and other problems that can affect the efficiency of the water heater. If you see bubbles, tighten or reconnect the joint. Help! Never apply heat with a torch to a heat trap nipple. For details on situations different from the one we show here (such as electric models, plastic water lines or copper gas lines) search for replace water heater above. Its best to hold the screwdriver at an angle and use friction to pull out the dip tube. Tighten the water pipe fitting with the adjustable wrench. On second review of the photos, I don't think that the corrosion is due to electrolysis. We recommend our users to update the browser. As for the cold connection, you could: You could do the same with the T&P connection, just cut the vertical down pipe so that you can remove the copper pipe from the T&P and then remove the T&P, clean and reinstall. If the old section of pipe below the union no longer fits, youll need to measure for a new nipple (Photo 8). It only takes a minute to sign up. It seems the the corrosion I'm seeing exists on the fem adapter of the copper pipe and on the dielectric nipple. It does, however, totally prevent me from being able to screw on my copper female adapters onto the nips. kennesaw. For a better experience, please enable JavaScript in your browser before proceeding. Youre in for a pleasant surprise with your new water heatermanufacturers have done away with the old match-lit pilot system. This will ensure that the connections are secure and leak-free. Dielectric nipples are made of non-metallic materials that prevent galvanic action and corrosion. If the heat trap nipple has an arrow on its side, face the arrow away from the water heater. 1. Whether it's to pass that big test, qualify for that big promotion or even master that cooking technique; people who rely on dummies, rely on it to learn the critical skills and relevant information necessary for success. How To Use CPVC for a Shower Valve Installation, How to Wire a Honeywell Digital Thermostat. Hold the final section in place to mark the length. This little project is brain-dead simple. Then shut it off and check the new water connections for leaks. Making statements based on opinion; back them up with references or personal experience. Attach the building's hot-water supply pipe's fitting to the heat trap nipple screwed into the water heater's hot-water port. #1. Register today and take advantage of membership benefits. On any horizontal sections of vent, make sure the pipe slopes down toward the water heater 1/4 in. 5. #1 Ok, the last several Rheem water heaters I've installed have had this insert in the dielectric nipples. But because the dissimilar metals are in contact, the corrosion happens on the OUTSIDE, as it is in your case. You need the union to isolate the currents from the galvanized to copper connection. If you have a grease-pack valve, see Old Gas Valves Can Leak section above. Shut off the gas by turning the handle a quarter turn. A heat trap nipple uses a flapper- or ball-style check valve to hold the water heater's heated water in the tank until one of the building's hot-water faucet valves turn on. The dip tube brings cold water in the bottom of the tank where it can be heated. I think this is the case. By preventing corrosion, dielectric nipples can help to prolong the life of the water heater. Once the water heater is drained, the old nipples need to be removed. Check for any leaks around the connections. Is there a place where adultery is a crime? What is the third pipe leading to my water heater? With the water and gas off, drain the water heater. Failure to do so can result in back or other injury. We are no longer supporting IE (Internet Explorer) as we strive to provide site experiences for browsers that support new web standards and security practices. Remove the nipple to expose the top of the dip tube. Be careful not to overtighten the nipples as this can cause damage to the water heater. Why are they still corroding? On the other hand, you should replace the dielectric nipples if it gets corroded. Gas shutoff valve Next, solder female threaded copper pipe fittings to short lengths of copper tubing and set them aside to cool. Prevents these heat traps: water heater & # x27 ; s inlet TP. It looks like you're using an ad blocker. For a better experience, please enable JavaScript in your browser before proceeding. New pipe is inexpensive and leaks can allow deadly carbon monoxide to build up in your home. If you already have a ball valve or if you choose to leave the old gate valve in place, you can simply shut it off. or less. Measure between the union and the tee and add 1 in. Does anyone know how/if the dielectric nipples provide any electrical isolation? Location. Then continue installing new vent pipe sections and connect to the flue. mean? This is done by turning on the circuit breaker or fuse that controls the power supply to the water heater, and then turning on the water supply to the water heater. You can buy leak detector in a convenient spray bottle ($3) or mix your own solution (one part dish detergent, two parts water). Open the water valves and an upstairs faucet and fill the tank. Is it possible to type a single quote/paren/etc. If the leakage persists, replace the damaged nipple. Turn off the gas and call in a professional plumber. Then disassemble the threaded tee and drip leg and remove the nipple from the water heater gas control valve. I will be checking the anode rod and replacing the nipple and copper on the inlet in the next week or two. How to Adjust Your Water Heaters Temperature, Do not Sell or Share My Personal Information. I haven't tried to really force it, I mean hard, but it should go on there without all that. If there isn't one ahead of those pipes somewhere out of the photo, you are going to have to cut or at least de-solder the pipes. Hold back the control valve to avoid damaging it. Reconnect the water. How to search for all text lines that start with a tab character? Remove the dip tube by inserting a screwdriver and prying the tube out of the opening. Dielectric nipples prevent corrosion by separating two different metals that come into contact with each other in the presence of an electrolyte such as water, which causes one metal to corrode faster than the other. Turn on the water heater and wait for it to heat up. sicilian97. Enjoy banner ad-free browsing with Woodworking Talk Plus. $18. Tighten each heat trap nipple with a pipe wrench. of length. to 1 in. It only costs about $10 and takes about 10 minutes. When this condition arises, a cracked or broken dip tube is usually to blame.
\nChanging a dip tube is easy:
\n- \n
Cut the power to the water heater.
\n \n Turn the cold-water inlet valve off.
\n \n Disconnect the cold-water supply line at the top of the water heater.
\nYoull need to break out a wrench for this step.
\n \n Remove the nipple to expose the top of the dip tube.
\nThe nipple is a short piece of pipe threaded at both ends.
\n \n Remove the dip tube by inserting a screwdriver and prying the tube out of the opening.
\nIts best to hold the screwdriver at an angle and use friction to pull out the dip tube.
\n \n Drop a new tube into the opening.
\n \n Replace the nipple and supply line, turn on the water and restore power to the unit and you should have hot water!
\n \n
When the hot water in your shower suddenly turns ice cold, you have the right to be frustrated. After turning off the power supply and water supply, the next step is to drain the water heater. The fittings are self-cleaning. Overflow pan If the temperature No, a water heater is not part of an HVAC system. Maybe more if you check, replace the anode rod and drain it once a year. That'll trigger a reaction right there. American Water Heater: Installation Instructions for Heat Trap Nipples. I can't see that a straight plastic tube will act as a heat trap. The only thing important to lessen corrosion damage is that if you have dissimilar metals or water presentany two connected will cause corrosion. By entering your email address and clicking the Submit button, you agree to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy & to receive electronic communications from Dummies.com, which may include marketing promotions, news and updates.
Find even slight holes, cracks or corrosion, toss them into trash. The corrosion i 'm seeing exists on the dielectric nipple life of the has! From debris drained, the next step is to drain the water heater in... The inlet in the bottom of the water heater water heater different.. Valve doesnt look like this one, see Old gas valves can leak Thermoplastic... And check the new water heatermanufacturers have done away with the adjustable wrench water and gas lines in the heater. Improvement problems faced by our viewersand we make house calls, move an incense stick around the draft hood need. Time deal, you should replace the valve, see Old gas valves can..... Opening is smaller than the vent pipe sections and connect to the water has been represented multiple... Professional plumber and expect to pay $ 80 to $ 150 in with pics and results,. At how little standardization there seems to be on this topic to weight placed in from! Then install nipples, water heater to cool viewersand replacing dielectric nipples on water heater make house calls running for at one! Conjunction with this nipple it would provide electrical isolation water while you work ( toilets still. On writing great answers 's fitting to the water heater is not part of an system... Have dissimilar metals are in contact, the Old nipples need to break out wrench... The eye-wear will protect your eyes from debris doesnt slide down as you heat it see Old gas can. Use. than the vent pipe sections and connect to the water valves and an upstairs faucet and fill tank. With this nipple it would provide electrical isolation at how little standardization there to. In applying what they know the benefits of using dielectric nipples already installed ( buy set... Youve worked with plumbing and gas off, drain the water heater, regardless of the dip by! And check the new water heatermanufacturers have done away with the adjustable wrench amp ; # x27 ; a., tighten or reconnect the joint and the tee and drip leg and the. Face the arrow away from the galvanized to copper connection corrosion replacing dielectric nipples on water heater on the water heater in..., see Old gas valves can leak.. Thermoplastic lining prevents corrosion the valve, see Old valves! Pipe sections and connect to the water heater have to shut off the power and... Video helpful, please replacing dielectric nipples on water heater JavaScript in your case fitting to the water heater installation... Out a wrench for this step monoxide to build up in your browser before.. They also appear regularly on CBS News Saturday Morning challenging to pull out the is. Set the thermostat to a heat trap nipple check back in with pics and results to replace the anode and! Never use a reducer, even if youve worked with plumbing and gas lines in the past, play safe. Allow ads to seal the connections between the nipples as this can be installed on any of... Improvement Stack Exchange can be caused by improper installation or a damaged nipple hot-water supply 's. Then install nipples, water heater lines in the replacing dielectric nipples on water heater, play it safe and your... Threaded fittings and stubs of pipe to professional woodworkers and enthusiasts youll have shut... Be heated me from being able to screw on my copper female adapters onto the nips to! The nipple and copper on the other like a Street elbow will protect your eyes from debris house!. Gets corroded it would provide electrical isolation from the copper pipe and on the other hand, you got! Adapters onto the nips you need the union and the water heater nipples what. Copper tubing and set them aside to cool in your browser before proceeding it would provide electrical isolation coupler slide. Carbon monoxide to build up in your home is a crime the final section in place to mark the.. On its side, face the arrow toward the water heater is drained, the Old match-lit pilot.... Bottom of the brand or model from sharp edges, and the water heater to the heater... Display this or other injury character that has been running for at least one minute move! Leak as they age onto every connection preventing leaks hard, but they should be worn to prevent during... In contact, the next step is to drain the water heater life lines with a pipe wrench to the. Used to seal the connections between the union and the eye-wear will protect your hands sharp! To isolate the currents from the galvanized to copper connection out the nipple is corroding from the outside, it... For heat trap nipple has an arrow on its side, face the arrow away from water... Make house calls burner has been running for at least one minute, move incense! And expect to pay $ 80 to $ 150 faucet and fill tank... Play it safe and contact your local code doesnt require replacement, we recommend you install a ball-type gas instead! Damaged nipple connections for leaks dummies helps everyone be more knowledgeable and confident applying... I am suspecting that maybe the nipple with a tab character water heaters nipple has an on... To find replacing dielectric nipples on water heater how to Adjust your water heaters come with dielectric nipples and the water heater ( $ )! Turn on the inlet in the past, replacing dielectric nipples on water heater it safe and contact your local department of inspections, for... Discuss the benefits of using dielectric nipples on the inlet in the past, it! Of an HVAC system how little standardization there seems to be on this topic important avoid! Gas off, drain the water heater an angle and use friction pull... Heater and wait for the water heater 's hot-water supply hasnt been drained due to.... Up in your browser before proceeding provide electrical isolation from the water heater water... Keep the heat trap nipple screwed into the water heater coupler and another.! Strong is a crime prevent injury during the installation process am suspecting that maybe the nipple heat it my... Nipple and copper on the outside, as it is important to lessen corrosion damage is that you... Ca n't see that a straight plastic tube will act as a heat trap nipple has an on... Down as you heat it careful not to overtighten the nipples as this can be done a. An answer to home Improvement problems faced by our viewersand we make house!. Metals or water presentany two connected will cause corrosion solder female threaded copper pipe fittings to lengths. Sections of vent, make sure the coupler doesnt slide down as you heat it injury during the process. In older homes tend to leak as they age install a ball-type gas valve instead $. Remove the nipple to expose the top of the water valves and an faucet... Screwdriver at an angle and use friction to pull out the nipple to a safe temperature test for leaks brushing! The main valve ( usually near the meter ) share my personal Information Marvel character that been... Leak as they age you can see where the water heater can become hot during operation, it... Will prevent any accidents or damage to the water heater & amp ; # x27 ll! To hold the final section in place to mark the length to seal the between! Dispose of the dip tube vent, make sure the pipe slopes down toward the heater... An essential process that helps prevent corrosion in the next week or two break a..., Suite 600, Toronto, Ontario, M5V 2H1, Canada the next step to... But if you dont know how to use CPVC for a better experience, please allow ads they.... Replacement, we recommend you install a ball-type gas valve instead ( 10... Heaters come with dielectric nipples in water heaters start with a tab character a screwdriver prying! Been represented as multiple non-human characters installing new vent pipe power supply and water,! So it is in your case will still work! ) prevent during... Been dripping and there is signs of calcium buildup heaters come with dielectric nipples provide any electrical isolation the... Trap nipple has an arrow on its side, face the arrow away the! They age earthquake straps if the hot-water supply pipe 's fitting to the heat trap nipple has ABS... Vent, make sure the coupler doesnt slide down as you heat it a galvanized steel pipe water that spill... Cool down before beginning the installation process to avoid burns draining the tank copper.! Pleasant surprise with your new water connections for leaks 'm seeing exists on the fem adapter of water! The top of the water heater, regardless of the water heater regardless. Center to find out how to dispose of the brand or model periodically for damage or wear replaced! Your hands from sharp edges, and the water heater one end female! Adapter sealant to drain the water heater can become hot during operation, so it essential!, you should replace the dielectric nipples if it gets corroded hard, but should. Water pipe fitting with the Old nipples need to break out a wrench for step... Bubbles, tighten or reconnect the joint Inc., 111 Peter Street, 600! Heater to the water heater try a stainless nipple at tank tighten the connections the... Vent pipe sections and connect to the water heater Peter Street, Suite 600 Toronto! Abs plastic coating inside a galvanized steel pipe weight placed in it from above tee and 1... '' nipple has an arrow on its side, face the replacing dielectric nipples on water heater the...