Electric water heater pressure relief valve into discharge tube problem

[kenzo42]

I can't remove the Ariston electric heating unit without cutting off the discharge pipe.

Why did the plumber sweat the entire discharge tube (one solid piece) so it can't be easily serviced in the future?

Can I use compression fittings and replacement copper piping after I make the cut?

 

[Terry]

There may be an unsoldered fitting below the 90 there.
If not, cut the pipe and reconnect. They do make unions for that. Often, unless it's the exact same unit, you need to make corrections to the piping.

 

[Sponsor]

 

[Jadnashua]

With all of the fittings on there, it looks like it has already been replaced at least once. It's not uncommon to have to cut the pipe to be able to unscrew the T&P valve, either to replace it if it failed, or to replace the WH.

 

[Gary Swart]

Simplest way is to cut the pipe, use new coupling and solder it up. No point in compression fitting or union. You don't need fancy or high tech. This is one place galvanized pipe would have been acceptable. Not suggest you replace this copper now, just saying.

 

[Widgit Maker]

Cut out old and replace with this.
It is a bent plastic tube with a flair fitting. About $7.00

 

[Storm rider]

Cut out old and replace with this.
It is a bent plastic tube with a flair fitting. About $7.00
View attachment 32920

I thought the TPV drain had to be galvanized or copper. I didn't think you could use plastic.

 

[Jadnashua]

Most plastics are not rated for the potential high water/steam temperature. No idea what the rating on that pipe is. It would need a certification inspection rating to be used for that application.

 

[Widgit Maker]

Well tube is not really made of plastic. It is made of polypropylene. Same thing as the dip tube is made of.