I have read that National Code requires you to use copper for 18 inches from your water heater. How can I do this when everything existing is PEX?
I need to replace my existing low boy water heater next to my kitchen sink. It was installed by the builder ten years ago. All the pipe in the house is PEX. The existing water heater is connected using PEX as well.
The supply line comes directly thru the wall to the HW Heater. There is no space to run 18 inches of copper! The heater is under the kitchen counter, and the countertop is directly over it. Only about an inch clearance.