[LazyPup]

The requirement to use dielectric couplings between copper and iron pipe or vessels has been a code standard in all codes for over 30 years.

In this region if copper is directly coupled to the iron it will begin to corrode within 6 months and normally will leak within the first year.

It is nearly impossible to remove a copper male adapter that has corroded in place by electrolisys and normally requires replacing the entire tank.

Due to the code requirement, many water heater manufacturers are now installing dielectric fittings during manufacturing or packing them in the box with a new water heater.

In this particular city, the water company is required to check the tanks when servicing the meters or installing new service and if the dielectric fittings are not present they will not turn the water on until it is corrected.