Leaking water heater connection

Question

This weekend I noticed water dripping down one of my tires.  It so happened that this tire was directly underneath the water heater.  I was able to access the back of the water heater by removing a drawer in the kitchen.  I noticed that water was dripping out of the threaded connections (both hot and cold) on the back of the heater.  I hand tightened the connections and the leak stopped.  Should there be Teflon tape on those connections?  I did not see any.

therink · Answer

I believe they are pex or compression type fittings, but I would keep and eye on them especially when the water heater reaches operating temperature, when pressure is greatest.
I have owned 4 new rvs and always make a point to check tightness on all factory installed fittings. This is one of the many QC items that are overlooked in the rv industry.
Hopefully there is no damage to your subfloor.

davind · Answer

The connections are pex on one side and 1/2" threaded on the other side. It was the threaded connections that were loose. I was just surprised that Teflon tape (or some other sealant) wasn't used.

I caught it pretty early and doubt there is much damage to the sub-floor, but I will be watching. One good thing about AZ is that wet things tend to dry pretty well.

path1 · Answer

Your lucky. Our leak was not visible and dry rotted some wood that was a pain to get to and cost a pretty penny to fix.

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Leaking water heater connection

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