On 23 Oct, 16:14, "Bob F" wrote:
"dgk" wrote in message

...

I've been floating around the past few days on this subject. It looks
easy but the gas has me a bit worried. It seems that all I need to do
is a bit of pipe work and the thing should be ok. The vent looks
tough. The current on really doesn't slope up much if at all, and I've
read it should go up an inch every four feet.

The new heaters all seem to be a bit taller than the old one, so it
will be even worse without major work venting it higher through the
wall. I guess I need to find a water heater that is the same height or
a bit lower. That seems to be tough so far.

And gas does scare me just a wee bit.

Search for a shorter heater. They are out there. Don't depend on the big box
stores.

Gas work is not rocket surgery. Get the needed permits, and ask questions of
the inspectors if you need to. I have found them VERY helpful as long as you do
your homework first. Their advice is way more reliable than the kid at the
hardware store.

Ideally, you can disconnect the old heater, ending up with a 1/2" male or female
thread to which you can attach a flex line to the heater. Use pipe dope on any
pipe thread connections you make, and tighten things well. (careful on the
heater itself) Don't disturb any pipe joints you want to keep. Use 2 wrenches to
avoid twisting them.

Bob

Mix some dishwashing soap with water and paint it on all joints after
tightening. Active bubbling means you have a leak.