Posted on Leave a comment

How To Replace a Broken Heater Bleedline Nipple in 8 Quick Steps

Blog Featured Images 13-

Struggling with a broken heater bleedline nipple? In this post, we show you how to replace a broken heater bleedline nipple if it has broken off. This repair is only for heaters or spas that are out of warranty. If you have a warranty on your heater or spa, call your Hot Spring dealer and get a warranty replacement. Before we get started, let’s determine which tools and parts you will need.

Tools You Will Need:

  • Phillips head screwdriver
  • 7/16” socket wrench
  • Impact driver or drill
  • 1/8” drill bit
  • 5/16” drill bit
  • 3/8” drill bit

Parts You Will Need:

  • 1/4” HB X 1/8” MIP Hose barb adapter
  • Plumber’s tape

Step 1. Remove the two Phillips head screws from the back cover of the broken heater.

broken heater bleedline nipple replacement
Step 1.5-

Step 2. Using a 5/16” drill bit, drill a hole as straight and as close to the center of the broken bleedline nipple as you can. Drill the hole no more than 3/8” deep.

Step 2. Drill a hole-

Step 3. Using a 3/8” drill bit, widen the hole so that you can thread in the hose barb adapter.

Step 3. Widen the hole-

Step 4. Using a 1/8” drill bit, open up the center of the hole so that water can drain from the heater. Be careful not to go too deep with your drill bit.

Step 4. Open the center of hole-
Step 4.5-

Step 5. Thread in the hose barb adapter.

Step 5. Thread in the adapter-

Step 6. Remove the hose barb adapter and wrap it with plumber’s tape.

Step 6. Wrap it with tape-

Step 7. Thread in the hose barb adapter using a 7/16” socket wrench.

Step 7. Thread in the adapter-

Step 8. Put the back cover on with the two Phillips head screws.

Step 8. Put the cover back on-

You’re all done! Good job!


Watch the Video!



Backyard Plus is Here to Help You Be the Hero.

Questions about your spa? Contact us! We are the top Hotspring spa parts retailer on the web.

Call us at (805)541-9000

Text us to receive technical support

We offer:

  • Our Parts Finder which allows you to find exact-match replacements for your hot tub
  • Free technical support that will allow you to maintain and repair your own spa accordingly
  • Information regarding your products and their usage through our blog posts.
  • Tutorials and assistance through our videos
  • Follow us on our Facebook page

Our goal here at Backyard Plus is to help save you money by avoiding costly service calls for repairs that you can easily do yourself!

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published.