‘Plumber’
Leaking hot water heater– fix or replace?
Monday, December 29th, 2008Hot Water System FAQ:
I have a 5 year old electric hot water heater that has started leaking. I checked the fittings and I don’t detect any leaks there. I also checked the elements, and the leak isn’t coming from there either. I have a feeling the entire unit needs to be replaced. I use a soft water system and I live in Phoenix, AZ.
I have a 5 year old electric hot water heater that has started leaking. I checked the fittings and I don’t detect any leaks there. I also checked the elements, and the leak isn’t coming from there either. I have a feeling the entire unit needs to be replaced. I use a soft water system and I live in Phoenix, AZ.
It is on warranty until July 2009. My question is, should I pay for a plumber to come out and inspect it, and perhaps replace it under warranty, or should I just go to Home Depot and buy a new one and install it myself? I am pretty handy, so I don’t think it would be too hard for me to install.
What would the warranty actually cover? Sure wouldn’t cover the labor cost. Would the new tank be 100% covered by the warranty, or would it be prorated?
Advice would be much appreciated!
How do you sealing a new pressure relief valve?
Thursday, December 25th, 2008Hot Water System FAQ:
I purchased all the parts for a new pressure relief valve on my broiler (hot water heating system), I know how to assemble everything. But, the joint between the new valve and the old pipe weeps water. What is the best way to seal the threads? Is joint pipe compound good enough? The plumber who installed the broiler 15 years ago used a grey paint like substance (it feels slightly slippery to the touch) to seal the joints. Anyone know what this might be? Do I need to use this?
I purchased all the parts for a new pressure relief valve on my broiler (hot water heating system), I know how to assemble everything. But, the joint between the new valve and the old pipe weeps water. What is the best way to seal the threads? Is joint pipe compound good enough? The plumber who installed the broiler 15 years ago used a grey paint like substance (it feels slightly slippery to the touch) to seal the joints. Anyone know what this might be? Do I need to use this?


