Leak at extrusion the element goes into, not the element

[jonus spector]

Water heater, very slow leak at the lower element, not the element (changed to new one with new gasket) but where the metal that holds the element meets the tank. There is a fingered compression fitting on this extrusion. Is this fixable, how is this part attached to the tank?

 

[Terry]

A photo 800 pixels or less will help us.
How old is the tank? You can normally depend on getting ten years from an electric tank. More than that.............maybe.

 

[Sponsor]

 

[jonus spector]

I know what your going to say, replace it. Still would like to know how that part is attached.
the heater is approximately 30 years old.

 

[Reach4]

I know what your going to say, replace it.

I was going to say to try a camera with a macro (tulip icon) setting. Then lock the focus, and move the camera closer for the snap.

 

[Terry]

You're going to be replacing the tank.

 

[hj]

That is just a "friction fit" device to hold the thermostat against the tank. The leak is probably in the weld behind it.

 

[jonus spector]

Terry....I'd prefer not to replace it, I'm very good at fixing things
HJ...Is the weld on the inside or outside of the tank,

 

[Master Plumber Mark]

You're going to be replacing the tank.

Their is no way to re-weld or repair a factory welded leak hole on your electric heater.....
as Terry stated ....you are going to need a new tank...

I got a funny picture of what some dumbass attempted to repair with self
tapping sheet metal screws a metal band-aid and silicone....
this was on the second floor of his home

we replaced it after he flooded the house
but it did last fora few days......lol