I need to replace a compression union on some copper pipe that runs to my water heater.
I cut the pipe as close to the old union as I could, then tried to slide the compression fittings onto the pipe ends that will be joined. The water heater side fit perfectly into the compression fitting, but the other end is at the end of a long bend and would not fit into the fitting.
I can't replace the pipe that is bent without having to replace multiple connections. How do I get this bent pipe into the compression fitting?