What is this on the cold water inlet? My guess was some kind of vacuum break/anti siphon device, am I right?
Thanks in advance.
WAG -Quick shut-off valve
No TPR piping?
PVC potable water piping?
I’m assuming you mean like a push-type, no? That top part didn’t move and/or was part of the fitting.
What’s that? The plumber’s don’t know and neither do I 
It’s Pex. That elbow is a “stackable” push-type fitting…
Had some time to follow-up/research this morning, tis a vacuum breaker: http://www.menards.com/main/plumbing/water-heaters/parts-accessories/vacuum-breaker-valve-for-lifetime-electric-water-heaters/p-200690.htm
Some more info http://www.askmehelpdesk.com/plumbing/where-do-install-vacuum-relief-valve-cold-water-supply-line-h2o-tank-437949.html
Looks like the installation pic that I posted is wrong. Anybody know of any manufacturer requirements for these (Richmond)?
Intended as sarcasm, Nathan, hence the winking smiley face at the end of the reply (meaning that I hardly ever see proper discharge piping around here).
wh is a richmond not the brass device, it has it’s mfr. data stamped on it that i can’t read
it’s not a watts n36 which is all i’ve seen