I did use teflon tape but (2 good wraps around on all threads). My
first thought was I somehow messed it up when I screwed it in. However
once again if there was a leak at the drain valve connection this
would not explain it being wet on the sides and top of the insulatio.
I guess maybe the insulation would absorb it all. I have sat with a
flashlight to see if I see any water leaking past and no. I just can't
imagine what is causing this. Could this be some condensation that
brass valves have that plastic doesn't. just throwing it out there. Or
is it possible that the insulation just never dryed and will never
dry? Once again when I replaced it weeks ago water gushed out because
the water heater still had lots of water at the bottom.

Jeff Wisnia wrote in message ...
Grendel wrote:
I recentlt replaced a leaky hot water heater drain valve with a nice brass
one. However I notice that some of the insulation stays wet around it when I
feel back the rubber grommet. I notice even tiny droplets of water on the
outside of the metal jacket under the grommet. There doesn't appear to be a
leak where valve connects as I can look and see no leak. Also if it leaked
it would leak down and the insulation on the sides wouldn't be wet. What's
the cause of this? It wasn't wet before I replaced the drain valve. I'm
pretty sure because I did this as one of my checls. My drain valve had been
leaking where the water actually drains from and at the handle.



Did you use pipe dope or teflon tape on the male threads of that new
valve before you screwed it into the boss on the tank shell.?

Just checking, because you didn't mention it and your post gave no clue
to your level of expertese, so don't be offended if you did use a thread
sealant.


Jeff