How to Change the Dip Tube on a Hot Water Heater
Dip tubes are responsible for carrying the cold water to the bottom of your water heater tank in order to expedite the heating process while keeping it from mixing with the hot water and coming out while in use. If you get into your shower and notice you quickly run out of hot water, you may have a problem with your dip tube. Sometimes a dip tube will disintegrate or malfunction and need to be replaced. This is a straightforward process that most people can do for themselves. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
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1
Shut off the power to the water heater by flipping the breaker in the circuit box.
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2
Locate the cold water inlet pipe and turn off the valve by cranking it clockwise. It is located on the right side of the tank and connects to the dip tube connector located on top right of the water tank.
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3
Examine the tank to see if you have enough room above it to remove the dip tube without having to drain the tank. If it is vented or has a few feet above the top of the tank, you can avoid draining the tank to remove it. If not, you will need to partially drain the tank by following the instructions located in the Resource section of this article.
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4
Remove the connector for the cold water pipe located on the top of the tank to gain access to the dip tube inlet. Turn the connector counterclockwise with a wrench to remove.
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5
Use a pair of pliers to grip the dip tube inside of the tank, pulling it upward through the tank opening. Grasp the tube and remove by hand in its entirety. You may bend the tube slightly to clear it if you run out of room when you have the majority of it out of the tank.
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6
Replace the new dip tube inside of the tank, wrapping the very top portion with plumber's tape. Push into place until the top of the tube is flush with the tank opening.
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7
Return the cold water intake pipe back to the tank and screw the connector sleeve by hand until it is tight. Use the wrench to further tighten it until it is securely in place.
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Tips & Warnings
When re-attaching the cold water pipe, be sure the rubber ring gasket is inside of the pipe connector sleeve.
If your dip tube has disintegrated, you will need to flush your water tank to rid it of the debris.
