I tightened the connection going into a hot water heater too much without backing it up properly and I felt/saw the pipe twist that comes out of the hot water heater. I know this should be avoided but I don't know how concerned I should be with the 3-5 degree slip that occurred.

Please advise.

Thank you

with the 3-5 degree slip that occurred. I was with you until I read this. Please explain, Is the pipe leaking? Did you twist it a full turn? You might be OK but if you're concerned why not come out of the heater with a 3/4 X 4" brass nipple and go from there, Good luck, Tom