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Wingeezer · 09-14-2012, 01:09 PM

I find that the plastic drain plug on our HW heater is a bit of a pig to get in and out when we winterize as it is not very accessible. The gas line for the burner runs in front of it.

It would be nice If I could replace the pipe plug with a small ball valve as a drain but I suspect there isn't enough room to fit one in due to the gas line clearance issue - looks like I might have maybe 1 3/4" clearance between the end of the threaded tank fitting and the gas feed line.

Just wondering if anyone has managed to replace the plug with a valve, and if so, any tips or suggestions?

Thanks ............ Brian.

TG Twinkie · 09-14-2012, 01:28 PM

Yes I have. If you use a "Boiler Cock". Available at most well stocked hardware stores. I bought mine at Menards.
If I remember correctly it is 1/2" NPT.

Wingeezer · 09-14-2012, 01:52 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by TG Twinkie

Yes I have. If you use a "Boiler Cock". Available at most well stocked hardware stores. I bought mine at Menards.
If I remember correctly it is 1/2" NPT.

Thanks TG - I will take a look.

Have you found any corrosion issues using brass fittings in the aluminum tank?

I was guessing that might be why the tank is fitted with a plastic drain plug.

Brian.

TG Twinkie · 09-14-2012, 06:46 PM

The inlet and outlet fittings are brass. I can't imagine the boiler cock would be any more of a problem. Given a choice between galvanized steel or brass. I'll take the brass.

ZoominC6 · 09-15-2012, 05:52 AM

We replaced our plastic plug with a brass plug from The Home Depot years ago. I found it much easier to remove with a wrench than the plastic one. Each Winter prior to winterizing I use a small wand to scour out the water tank to help prevent minerals from building up in the bottom of the tank. You can build your own or just purchase a plastic one from Camping World. It's a good idea to do this every year or three both on your home (flush by draining) water heater tank and your Airstream. Happy trails!