Natural gas water heater condensation pipe?
#1
07-05-09, 11:43 PM
Natural gas water heater condensation pipe?
New to forum today. Thanks for any help. My hot water heater uses natural gas. There is a 6 inch extension of capped pipe just below the bend that goes into the control valve of the water heater. Is this a neccessary part for condensation or maybe for cushioning? Does it ever need to be emptied. I ask because I'm helping a friend replace his water heater and it doesn't have a pipe like this. Thanks, Mikepike
Last edited by Mikepike; 07-06-09 at 12:03 AM. Reason: clarification
#2
07-06-09, 12:30 PM
Mikepike,
Welcome to the forums.
That leg is there to collect condensation and any debris that may be in the gas line. Most gas companies (therefore bldg. codes) require it. Very rarely would it ever need emptying or cleaning, and then only if a servicing plumber finds it to be a problem. Install one at your friends when you are replacing the WH.
No, it has nothing to do with cusshioning. The gas line (after the meter) is only operating at a few PSI.
Welcome to the forums.
That leg is there to collect condensation and any debris that may be in the gas line. Most gas companies (therefore bldg. codes) require it. Very rarely would it ever need emptying or cleaning, and then only if a servicing plumber finds it to be a problem. Install one at your friends when you are replacing the WH.
No, it has nothing to do with cusshioning. The gas line (after the meter) is only operating at a few PSI.
#3
07-06-09, 05:50 PM
It is called a drip leg, and would catch any small amount of condensation, or more importanly little pieces of debris, which could clog the gas valve or the orifice. Not necessary to EVER service it!
