Rheem Performance Plus, Water Heater, Recirc Connection

[hkinkade]

I have a rheem perf. plus water heater and I want to add a recirculation line. The new Rheem units have a plastic style connector, not the typical valve connection. To open the connection you twist the outer sleeve, while you twist the outer sleeve the hose connection twists and moves outward. This creates a problem connecting hard (copper) plumbing. Has anyone replaced this fitting, if so, with what? Can I just remove it completely from the tank and put a brass valve in it's place? I assume it is pipe thread connection to the tank, but can't tell for sure.

 

[frodo]

yes, remove plastic POS and replace with brass,,not galvinised

 

[Mr_David]

Is it like one of these?

Remove the whole drain valve and install a brass nipple. I like to install a good ball valve on the nipple then a tee for the return line and a hose bib just like Frodo said BUT you don't have to use 6" nipples.
3" of 4" in tank and a close/short nipple between the valve and tee

 

[hkinkade]

Perfect, thanks for reply