[shader]

Some time back I installed a new water heater and it had the factory installed heat traps. The instructions say you MAY have to install one or more 90° elbows in order to make a “U” configuration in the supply pipes. It also shows the pipes running vertically from the heater. I’ve read on various plumbing sites suggesting the “U” piping to reduce standby heat loss. I connected mine using the original vertical pipe setup. My question: Is the “U” type configuration necessary when the heat traps are installed? I have to install a water softener so when plumbing I can do the “U” if necessary. All of the pipes are insulated.

[speedball1]

Hey Shader,

As you can see by image number one no "U"s are necessary if heat traps are installed. Have a great weekend. Tom

[shader]

Thanks Tom, your advice always helpful as usual--saves me some plumbing work. Image #3 was one of the sites I referred to. Obviously, no factory heat traps...