Jennifer
05-20-2010, 08:48 PM
I'm replacing the 2 inch o-rings and split nut union on my Balboa heater. The O-ring is rubber and the split nut union holds together a metal pipe (on the Balboa unit) and a PVC pipe.
What kind of lubricant is safe to use on the rubber o-ring, metal, and PVC? I know Vaseline deteriorates rubber. Would a silocone lube be ok, or can I used cooking oil/Crisco, OR do I need to go buy some Plumbers Grease? I have heard that the o-ring lube is a rip off and I don't need it. I've read all different answers to similar questions on the plumbing forums.
I don't want to use anything that will deteriorate the rubber o-ring faster than they normally deteriorate on their own. They are a pain to replace, not because putting in an o-ring is difficult, but because these particular o-rings that I have must be ordered on-line and take several days to be shipped (only one site sells them, too.)
One other question: if water is trickling out of the Balboa metal housing, can I put the o-ring on, or should I want until both ends are dry, lube them up and then attach them? My boyfriend and I disagree on the answer to this, so...can't wait to hear what you have to say!
Thanks in advance for all responses!
What kind of lubricant is safe to use on the rubber o-ring, metal, and PVC? I know Vaseline deteriorates rubber. Would a silocone lube be ok, or can I used cooking oil/Crisco, OR do I need to go buy some Plumbers Grease? I have heard that the o-ring lube is a rip off and I don't need it. I've read all different answers to similar questions on the plumbing forums.
I don't want to use anything that will deteriorate the rubber o-ring faster than they normally deteriorate on their own. They are a pain to replace, not because putting in an o-ring is difficult, but because these particular o-rings that I have must be ordered on-line and take several days to be shipped (only one site sells them, too.)
One other question: if water is trickling out of the Balboa metal housing, can I put the o-ring on, or should I want until both ends are dry, lube them up and then attach them? My boyfriend and I disagree on the answer to this, so...can't wait to hear what you have to say!
Thanks in advance for all responses!