How to Repair Copper Piping on a Water Heater
Gas water heaters utilize copper pipes to deliver water to the heater's tank. Over time, the copper piping is subject to corrosion. Debris can eventually enter the tank and cause further problems. In addition, external damage to the piping can cause water leaks. For these reasons, corroded or otherwise damaged copper lines should be replaced. Does this Spark an idea?
Things You'll Need
- Hacksaw
- Threaded male adapter
- Lead-free solder
- Propane torch
- Teflon tape
Instructions
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1
Turn the gas supply off and wait at least 15 minutes for any gas to dissipate. The gas supply can be turned off by twisting the shutoff valve located in the center of the gas supply line to the horizontal position.
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2
Turn off the water supply by rotating the two shutoff valves located in the center of the water supply lines in a clockwise direction until the valves stop.
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3
Cut through the copper pipe with a hacksaw just above and just below the portion of the pipe to be repaired.
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4
Solder a threaded male adapter to the upper portion of the copper pipe that remains with lead-free solder and a propane torch. Slide the male adapter over the pipe, then place the solder rod just above the seams on the adapter. Wave the flame from the torch over the adapter. As the adapter heats, the solder will melt and fill in any gaps between the copper pipe and the adapter.
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5
Let the copper pipe and the adapter cool, then wrap the threaded end of the adapter with Teflon tape.
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6
Thread one end of a flexible water supply connector onto the end of the male adapter, then connect the other end of the connector to the water heater's inlet valve on top of the heater's tank.
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7
Turn on the water supply, followed by the gas supply, then test the fittings for leaks by coating each seam with soapy water applied with a sponge and checking for bubbles.
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