Is my water heater beyond repair or is there a way to fix the leaking issue underneath the clip?
Asked by Martyna Log 
8 months ago
Last Updated: April 29, 2024
Hey, does anyone know if my water heater is broken or if there’s a way to fix it? It’s leaking from underneath the clip.
If you’re fortunate, switching out the nipples could do the trick. But typically, water heaters last 8-12 years without proper upkeep.
My water heater was put in when the house was built in 1958 and hasn’t needed any repairs yet. (Knock on wood!) I guess they don’t make them like they used to.
Is 24 and is thinking about replacing his water heater with a tankless one. He’s swapped out many water heaters before. In the past, they used steel and better glass lining. If you change the anode rod every couple of years, you’ll increase the lifespan.
When we purchased our house, the water heater was already old. We managed to squeeze out an additional 10 years before switching to a tankless water heater.
I just found out at 85 years old what an anode rod is. I bet not many people are aware of that. Appreciate the information!
1958! Insurance companies recommend changing them after a decade, if you’re lucky. They often start leaking before reaching 15 years, which is why…
Swap out that tank, it’s clearly past its prime.
Flaherty mentioned that it’s only around 7 years old. Currently, I’m in the process of replacing the nipple on the cold side. My plumber was planning to do this first. I’m thinking that changing it might solve the problem and save me some money this time. If not, I’ll ask my plumber to come and install a new one.
Could you please snap a picture of the data tag?
Oh no, it’s terrible! When it comes to water heaters, there’s usually nothing else to fix besides the thermocouple or gas controller.
Invest in a new tank. Repairing it isn’t worthwhile.
Especially if it has been in use for several years
I believe they are only recommended for a 10-year period
Can you believe it’s only 7 years old? Haha
Oh no, that’s rough, but I believe getting a replacement is best
Hey, someone has to keep the economy going
I’ve had experience flipping foreclosures, and when you spot a leak on the exterior, it’s likely been leaking inside for a while
Oh yeah, that’s just a small part of real estate deals
Can you please open up that black electric cover and check out what the water is doing to the connections?
Check around the top and sides of the heater, you may occasionally feel the leak coming into contact with the insulation.. although there isn’t much you can do if the leak is at the nipple
Install a new water heater
Replace that particular item, also local regulations in Washington and various locations across the nation mandate metal piping measuring 18-24 inches on both sides of the water heater (flexible lines)
Recently swapped mine for a new one…it sprung a leak, had no idea it was from ’99! Had a good 24-year run.
Have you ever attempted to replace a nipple on an old water heater? Dealing with rust and scale can be a nightmare, especially if the JB Weld pipe glue doesn’t hold up. It’s just not worth the effort. It’s probably more frustrating than trying to replace a seized bottom element.
My plumber suggested replacing it…so I’m giving it a try…can’t hurt…haha…the water heater was put in 7 years ago. I’ve taken off the nipple, just need to pick up a new one tomorrow and reassemble everything, hoping for the best.
You’re in luck.
Hope for the best, but don’t mix up your threads.😉
Another one bites the dust! 😆
Switch out the nipple, it’s pretty simple and if it does the job you might get some extra years out of it. I don’t understand why some people are saying it’s not worth the effort, a fresh nipple only costs around 6 dollars. Make sure to check that it’s not cross threaded when installing the new one. Has any maintenance been performed on the unit after installation? Take advantage of having the water turned off to drain it and replace the anode rod.
Sounds like they really know their stuff! Pay attention to this advice – it could help you fix the issue.
I took out the nipple last night and will be getting the replacement part today. Keeping my fingers crossed.
You’ve got this. I’ve fixed or switched out quite a few water heaters, and I think this one can be saved based on the picture alone. Remember to drain as much as you can to remove any sediment buildup. But don’t rush to replace the entire unit just because of a bad nipple
Did you manage to grab some plumbers tape or maybe some loctite? Just make sure to get the right kind of loctite, not the one that’s super hard to remove
Yeah, I already took care of that. They didn’t have the correct part for me…so it’s on its way and should arrive tomorrow.
I make sure to apply pipe dope on the nipples
Sure! Please provide me with the original text that you would like me to rephrase.
Thanks, .
Is it possible to repair? Well, you might be able to replace the nipple. But is it really worth it? I doubt it. If you live in an area with hard water, that tank is likely filled with sediment. Essentially, you’re paying to heat up sediment instead of water… It’s definitely not a wise way to spend money.
I’d empty it out and check the condition. Lots of sediment is coming out, so it might be time for a replacement. However, if everything else is fine, it could be worth a shot. Get an early start and have a replacement picked out in case things go wrong. And make a couple of material lists because with plumbing, you’ll likely need to make a few trips to the hardware store. That’s been my experience, at least.
Said it best. 🤣 Plumbing always seems to give me trouble the first time too.
I’m improving thanks to my collection of spare parts from my numerous trips to the hardware store. Remember all the items I planned to return after finishing my projects? Lol.
If you’re unsure, just purchase a new one.
What’s up?
Hey , take a moment to realize what page you’re on.
Is spot on… I may not be an expert, but I’ve picked up some knowledge along the way. I’ve figured out how to replace capacitors for my AC unit and furnace, how to clean the ignitor on my furnace, and more. I found all this info on websites like this one. Not everyone has to be so darn rude.
If your water heater is 15 years old or more and working well, it might be time to consider getting a new one. Look for a model with leak detection and auto shut off for added benefits:
1.) You can get a discount on home insurance with auto shut off feature.
2.) A new water heater can help you save energy and likely have a better, more efficient element.
3.) Enjoy peace of mind knowing your tank won’t blow in the middle of winter.
4.) Many new models come with smart technology, allowing you to control temperature with your iPhone and monitor performance.
Just under 7 years old. Planning to swap out the nipple and rod and see how it goes. Thank you