I've been practicing my copper sweating skills before I try to replace my water heater this summer. So far, so good. I just want to replace the shutoff valve and put in threaded fittings for the tank hookups. But the old gate valve is only 1.5 inches from the wall and an elbow, and I'd rather not cut a hole in the wall.
Is it possible to keep the same valve where it is (and replace the washer and packing), just heating it enough until the flex connector can be removed? Will that ruin the integrity of the joint on the opposite side of the valve (or even the elbow)? Or will the mating surface of the valve be too corroded to even bother? I'm not trying to scrimp, I'm just really concerned about the torch's effect on nearby joints (and my wall!). If I have to, I will replace both the valve and the elbow. I'd just rather not push my luck if it's not necessary. Thanks.
Post Reply
Watch this Post
