HTP indirect water heater leak from cold water inlet

mmvpp

Hi, my HTP indirect water heater is dripping water slowly at the cold water inlet. Does the tank need to be drained before replacing the connection? How much work is it to replace it? Thx

HomerJSmith

My dad use to say, "If the rate of evaporation exceeds the rate of drip, you don't have a leak."

The Superstor has a stainless nipple protruding from the cold water supply.

Yes, you will have to drain the tank. Make sure that the cold water shut off valve is closed. VERY IMPORTANT!!! Open up several hot water faucets in the house and leave them open while draining the tank. That will keep a vacuum from building up inside the tank and crushing it from the inside.

If you're a belt and suspenders man, wrap several turns of Teflon tape around the nipple after you cleaned the threads and then use your thumb and index finger around the nipple pressing the Teflon tape into the threads. You can apply a good pipe thread sealant over that.

If the leak is coming from the connection of the nipple to the tank, I think you're screwed.

How hard? If you're a rocket scientist, easy-peasy. You are going to un-solder the coupling remove the stem with the copper male adapter, unscrew the black iron tee and nipple, then unscrew the 90 deg ell. Replace every iron part with new galvanized iron parts using a good pipe sealant (see above). PS, You could recut the copper supply pipe several inches above the coupling with a pipe cutter and make your re-connection there without unsoldering the coupling.

PS. When you resolder the new 3/4" copper coupling, Keep The Flame away from the tank shell. It will melt and blister.

mattmia2

i always had trouble with brass threads until i started using both tape and dope on them

mattmia2

Oh, and be careful, that outside jacket is plastic, it will melt and burn if you hit it with the torch.

Alan (California Radiant) Forbes

If those fittings are black iron or galvanized, they should be replaced with brass to prevent electrolysis.

And I like to install unions at fixture connections. The next service person will thank you.

Alan Welch

How old is the tank? I would slice and remove the white plastic ring and try to see if the leak is further in. I would also have a plan in place if you need to replace the tank.

mmvpp

Thanks guys. I guess I will need to make some calls. Yes, so far it makes the basement floor damp, no puddle yet but it looks like it is getting worse. The tank is only 4 years old. I have only been in this house for a year.

Alan (California Radiant) Forbes

Did you get a home warranty plan when you purchased the house?

I believe HTP has a lifetime warranty on their indirects, but only to the original homeowner. This is only for a defective indirect.

mmvpp

No home warranty and I guess the lifetime warranty won't cover me. I will clean the nipple and see if I can locate the leak. Fingers crossed. Thx again for all the info.