Melting point of old solder

[Ray K]

I just looked at the video.

The system is awesome. But when you check the prices, you'll see the problem: They force you to buy bags containing a lot more than you might need. For example, while one 1/2" x 1/2" straight coupling is $8.68, you must buy a bag of 12, which works out to $106.32. Perhaps some local plumbing supply houses sell smaller quantities.

Later this week when I have the plumbing inspector here to check my new water heater, I'll ask him about Shardbite.

Thanks for the lead.

Ray

[Ray K]

Followup:

I had a plumber over to install a water heater. Even with his acetylene torch, he had trouble disassembling the joint, but finally succeeded.

He shortened the pipe 3/16" so there was perfect alignment with the union on top of the faucet. Tightened it, and guess what: there was still the same tiny dripping. So my theory about misalignment being the problem turned out to be wrong.

He retightened it as much as he dared, but the lead persisted. He solved the problem by applying pipe dope around the leaky threads.

Thanks to all for you informative comments.

Ray

[Ray K]

Followup:

I had a plumber over to install a water heater. Even with his acetylene torch, he had trouble disassembling the joint, but finally succeeded.

He shortened the pipe 3/16" so there was perfect alignment with the union on top of the faucet. Tightened it, and guess what: there was still the same tiny dripping. So my theory about misalignment being the problem turned out to be wrong.

He retightened it as much as he dared, but the leak persisted. He solved the problem by applying pipe dope around the leaky threads.

Thanks to all for you informative comments.

Ray

[Phisherman]

Got to be absolutely sure there is no water in that pipe. Carefully check your torch head for any solder debris. Use 150 grit strip to clean the area, brush on a little flux and heat. If you still can not get it to melt, cut the fitting out with a hack saw or Dremmel being careful not to damage the pipes.

[Ray K]

The torch head was brand new. Your suggestion for applying flux is an excellent one I hadn't thought of. I noticed that when the plumber was having trouble soldering a brand new joint on the water heater, even with his hot acetylene torch, he added extra flux.

He took care of my original problem of a slow leak at one of the unions feeding the utility-tub faucet by applying pipe dope on the threads.