Replacing a section of copper pipe to a Gas Water Heater outlet Question - DIY Chatroom

F150dad77 · 10-05-2009, 09:17 AM

Ok, There is a section of copper pipe that has several leaks on it that lead to the hot water heater cold inlet, that heads upstairs to feed the sink in the kitchen. I was wondering what would be the proper steps to replacing that section of pipe.

What I thouht about doing is turning down the thermostat first, then use the shut-offs for that section, use a pipe cutter right in the middle of the leaks to drain the line, then make a close cut 3 feet before the outlet of the water heater and on the other end make a cut before it heads upwards to the sink?

Am I missing anything else before I solder the new section of pipe?

I have the flux, sandpaper, and fire blanket.

Thank you for any information.
F150dad77
Massachusetts.

47_47 · 10-05-2009, 09:58 AM

Are you sure the shut off valves will isolate the section? Usually you have to turn the main valve off to work on the cold lines, then open the highest and lowest taps to drain them. You may also want to get a wire brush to clean the inside of the fittings.

F150dad77 · 10-05-2009, 11:01 AM

Hey thank you for your reply. There is one main shutdown before the tank and then the other shutoff is under the sink. Thanks again!

AllanJ · 10-05-2009, 01:38 PM

Just be aware that a lot of water (maybe a whole gallon) might need to be drained before you can start soldering. Most likely all of the water in the water pipes upstairs is going to come through the saw cut you made unless there was a laundry tub or other faucet below the level of where you are working. .

Given several leaks in a section of pipe and also a history of corrosive water in your town, I would cut off and replace as much of the pipe as I could see. It is okay to cut and solder within six inches of an existing valve or other fitting when you wrap the fitting with a water soaked cloth first.

F150dad77 · 10-07-2009, 10:32 AM

Thanks Allan, I will keep that in mind for this afternoons project.