I purchased a water heater from a big box store and noticed the nipples threads are damaged. This is on the lower half of the nipple threads. I could screw them on half to 3/4 of they way, after that I would have to force it. Should I just exchange the heater for a new one? The tech support said that the box store will just change it for me. I would rather do it myself if that is the case.
Nipples damaged should I return the water heater
- Thread starter nolow
- Start date
Jadnashua
Retired Defense Industry Engineer xxx
The threads could be damaged, but don't confuse how a tapered pipe thread works verses a standard pitch screw thread. The threads on nipples are generally what is called an interference fit...they are designed to get tighter as you thread them together since it is like driving a wedge into a slot. Remember, you need to use something to seal around the threads - either teflon tape or pipe dope.
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Redwood
Master Plumber
I hope for your sake if it is a gas unit you bought it at big orange box!
The threads are damaged at the bottom. I can see where a few threads are smashed in. I'd prefer to get the exact manufacturer ones because they are more than just 3" nipples.
Redwood
Master Plumber
The nipples should go in about 3 full turns hand tite.
I would recommend using teflon tape then putting dope over it.
What brand is this water heater? Is it gas?
I would recommend using teflon tape then putting dope over it.
What brand is this water heater? Is it gas?
It is an electric rheem. Should I not worry about the damaged nipples? I screw them on hand tight and it gets stuck right where the threads are smashed. It will probably seal because it is not at the top, but I was wondering if I should risk it.
Redwood
Master Plumber
Its probably nothing to worry about but if they are willing to give you new ones... Take them! Its rare to see a perfect pipe thread!
Gary Swart
In the Trades
Why would you return the water heater if the nipples are damaged? That would be like returning a new car because you have a bad tire. Take the nipples back and exchange them for ones with good threads. Chances are the original ones will work just fine, but you will feel better with ones you know have good threads.
Redwood
Master Plumber
I had the impression that the poster was talking about exchanging the nipples.
Gary Swart
In the Trades
In his original question, he asked if he should just return the heater.
Redwood
Master Plumber
I definitely wouldn't lug a water heater 2 trips for that! Even Dielectic nipples would have to be in pretty bad shape before I'd make a trip for them.
In his original question, he asked if he should just return the heater.
sorry, I meant swap out the nipples. They do not sell them, so I would have to take the ones off the floor model or something. The guy at home depot suggested letting them do it, but I would rather just swap them myself. I ended up using the ones on the unit. I will have rheem send me new ones and keep them if they ever develop a leak.
Gary Swart
In the Trades
I don't think it would be too difficult to clean the threads up with a pipe die.
Jadnashua
Retired Defense Industry Engineer xxx
Or, clean them up with a file.
Rburt5
Member
There's nothing worse than a bad nipple.
Redwood
Master Plumber
But... Its not hard to just throw them in the trash and pick up a couple more!
I see this one taking a turn towards the gutter!
I see this one taking a turn towards the gutter!
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