34" Long Dip Tube for 30-50 Gal. Gas Heaters

Bradford White Long Dip Tube – Optimized Cold Water Delivery for Water Heater Performance

The Bradford White Long Dip Tube (Part No. 415-51230-03) is a factory-replacement cold water inlet tube engineered to direct incoming water to the bottom of the tank, supporting efficient heat exchange and consistent temperature stratification. It is a critical component for maintaining proper thermal layering and maximizing the recovery rate of gas or electric storage-type water heaters.

This 32-inch dip tube features a 3/4" NPT x 2" nipple connection and is designed for compatibility with select Bradford White residential tank models. Its durable polymer construction resists corrosion and degradation under continuous exposure to hot water, system pressure, and common treatment chemicals.

Application Highlights

• Cold Water Stratification – Directs unheated supply water to the base of the tank, minimizing disruption of stored hot water
• Efficient Recovery – Maintains optimal thermal layering for improved burner or element efficiency
• Corrosion-Resistant Materials – Molded polymer construction prevents early wear and eliminates scale flaking common to metal tubes
• Hydrojet® System Compatible – Supports sediment control and mixing in tanks equipped with Hydrojet performance features
• OEM Fitment – Factory-manufactured for accurate dimensions and thread alignment in approved models

Technical Specifications

• Part Number: 415-51230-03 (formerly 229-51230-03)
• Length: 32 inches overall
• Connection: 3/4” NPT with integral 2” nipple
• Material: Corrosion-resistant polymer
• Compatibility: Select Bradford White upright residential water heaters

Installation Notes

Installation of dip tubes requires full system isolation, tank drainage, and inspection of the cold water inlet. Proper sealing with thread compound or Teflon tape is required at the NPT connection. This task should be performed by licensed plumbers to ensure compliance with local plumbing codes and to verify that no other tank components—such as anode rods or internal siphon tubes—are disturbed.

Contractor Use Case

For retrofit or service calls involving insufficient hot water delivery, uneven temperature layering, or visual evidence of a degraded dip tube, replacement with an OEM component like the 415-51230-03 ensures proper inlet water delivery and preserves tank performance. Especially critical in gas models where combustion efficiency is sensitive to thermal gradients inside the vessel.

Key Functional Benefits

• Restores Original Water Heater Performance
• Prevents Short-Cycling or Lukewarm Output
• Supports Proper Flow in Recirculation-Ready Models