Quick Answer: Do I Need A Dielectric Union For My Water Heater?

Dielectric Unions If either the tank nipples or the pipes are galvanized steel, however, and you are connecting them to copper, you must use a fitting called a dielectric union to make the connection. Both the hot and cold water pipes must have this fitting — it’s a code requirement.

Can you use dielectric union on water heater?

You need to use dielectric unions to connect an electric water heater to a system of copper pipes if the heater came with preinstalled galvanized nipples.

Why are dielectric unions used on water heaters?

Dielectric unions are used to join pipes made from different metals to prevent accelerated corrosion in the piping system. This fitting is utilized to transition between steel and copper piping with a maximum operating pressure of 250 psi and 180-degrees Fahrenheit.

Do Rheem water heaters need dielectric unions?

Re: Rheem says: dielectric not necessary! Interesting. They must mean that a dielectric union is not required to prevent problems with the water heater. However, no dielectric union between dissimilar metal connections will likely result in failure of the piping at that point.

Where are dielectric unions required?

In most jurisdictions plumbing codes require the use of a dielectric fitting when joining steel piping to copper or other metals; some plumbing jurisdictions permit use of a 6-inch brass nipple in this location as an alternative to diaelectric fittings.

Why do you need a dielectric union?

Dielectric unions are used to separate two dissimilar metal pipes (such as copper pipes and galvanized steel). Purpose of dielectric unions is to prevent galvanic corrosion, which is caused by electrolysis.

How do you install a dielectric union on water heater?

First step: Wrap several layers of pipe sealing tape over the threads of the steel pipe. Install the threaded end of dielectric union body to the steel pipe. Turn the union clockwise and tighten with a pipe wrench. Second step: Slide the union nut over the end of copper pipe with open threaded end facing out.

Do dielectric unions leak?

A dielectric union is a plumbing fitting that is meant to join two dissimilar metal pipes so they don’t experience a galvanic reaction and begin to rust. We find many dielectric unions that have started to rust which will eventually lead to a water leak if not remedied.

Are SharkBite fittings dielectric?

The standard SharkBite fittings (i.e. Coupling, Elbow, Tee) cannot be used as a dielectric union. However, SharkBite Stainless Steel Braided Flexible Coupling Hoses can be used as a dielectric union.

Are water heater nipples dielectric?

Most water heaters come from the factory with dielectric nipples (which are galvanized ) with the plastic inner sleeve.

Do I need a dielectric union for brass to galvanized?

There is some controversy as to the effectiveness of dielectric unions, but the bottom line is that if you connect a copper pipe to a galvanized one, some plumbing inspectors are going to require one. Certain municipalities consider a brass fitting a suitable dialectic union, but others do not.

Is it OK to use galvanized pipe for water heater?

Thanks. Black steel is the prefered pipe material, followed by copper. Galvanized should not be used. Galvanized Pipes in a Hot Water Heating System.

Can you put stainless steel and copper together?

While stainless steel is a common plumbing material for water mains and fittings because it has an exceptionally long lifespan and is resistant to corrosion, it’s not a good idea to directly connect stainless steel to copper. This is because stainless steel and copper are actually dissimilar metals.

Why do dielectric unions fail?

every single union fails miserably by either leaking, clogging up completely, rusting to pieces with no water contact outside pipe or depositing rust in water.