[stiksandstones]

Water heater is only 2 yrs old, but I think its my bad water line? should I replace?

 

[HotRodx10]

Looks like just the connection between the copper and galvanized steel nipple is leaking, right? If that's the case, the first thing to try is tightening the nut. If it'll tighten with moderate effort applied to a 10" or 12" wrench, it may solve your problem. If not, you probably just need to take that connection apart, check the seal at the bottom of the brass nut to make sure it's not cracked or mangled, and check the end of the pipe nipple to be sure it's flat and smooth. If the end of the pipe nipple is uneven, you'll need to replace the pipe nipple. Alternately, you could replace the copper with one of the braided flex lines with compression fittings, which are more forgiving when connecting to rough pipe ends.

 

[TarheelTerp]

I think its my bad water line? should I replace?

dielectric unions. get some.

 

[SeniorSitizen]

I wouldn't touch that without a new line in the house. If it's repairable and you care to do so return the new line with receipt in hand.

 

[jmon]

Water heater is only 2 yrs old, but I think its my bad water line? should I replace?

Dissimilar metals don't go together well. As mentioned, Replace the plain galvanized nipples with dielectric nipples. Those plain galvanize ones are just going to be more trouble down the road. Just a suggestion.

 

[HotRodx10]

Replace the plain galvanized nipples with dielectric nipples.

Definitely a good idea to do something; either the dielectric nipples or replace the supply line with something other than copper (my aforementioned flex line, for instance).

 

[stiksandstones]

THis has "built in dielectric sleeve"...can I use this?
https://www.homedepot.com/p/HOME-FL...-Water-Heater-Connector-HFWCC-07-24/304318994


Also, is replacing this as simple as :
-SHut off the cold water supply valve right there at the wall
-unscrew old one
-install new one-tighten
-turn on cold water supply
-done?

Or am I missing something because its a water heater? Turn gas off? Open any sink faucets?

 

[HotRodx10]

The new one looks just like the one you have on it now. It's probably a good idea to have it 'in hand' before you start working on it. I would start by attempting to tighten the connection. If that stops the leak, you're done. If not, take it apart at the leaking connection and check the end of the pipe nipple to make sure it's flat and smooth. If it's rough, you'll need to either smooth it up or replace it (or try one of these).

 

[dj3]

The step sequence you outlined above is correct, PLUS:
- Replace the nipples on the WH with a dielectric nipples. The sleeve on the copper flex is not enough to stop corrosion.

 

[stiksandstones]

The new one looks just like the one you have on it now. It's probably a good idea to have it 'in hand' before you start working on it. I would start by attempting to tighten the connection. If that stops the leak, you're done. If not, take it apart at the leaking connection and check the end of the pipe nipple to make sure it's flat and smooth. If it's rough, you'll need to either smooth it up or replace it (or try one of these).

Its hella tight, won't tighten anymore.

 

[roughneck]

Electrolysis has taken its toll. And is the cause of your leaks.
Dielectric unions will solve your problem.