Finally bit the bullet and purchased a new water heater and installed it last night.. Not a garage item, but certainly important to keeping the basement shop dry..
Well the saga continues.. Last night on the way home (late from work) my wife calls.. There is the smell of gas in the house. I get home, she aired it out well, so started to problem solve. Found the gas valve at the water heater (that I reused, and installed a NPT adapter for the gas line) had cracked. The picture show where the crack was found where the ruler is from zero to about 3/8" to 1/2.
Now, I understand NPT (I've tapped and die cut many, quality controlled many, studied the geometry, etc.). I've also done some iron pipe work (not extensive but some). I didn't apply an unusual amount of torque to this fitting/valve, and the fact that it cracked and leaked two days later (I was monitoring my install for water leaks on a frequent basis ~ morning, evening, and before bed) really concerns me..
I've submitted this issue to UL since its a UL listed part.. and admitted the above to them.. but this valve seems extremely sensitive to this fail mode. Anyone have similar or related experience or advice for me for future consideration / sharing with all on GJ?
