Leaking Noritz water heater.... I have a Noritz N-069m water heater. When i purchased the unit 3 years ago, i was told that if i installed a water softner unit it would void the warranty. A year and a half later the unit failed and caused major water damage of which i covered the repair costs. Now one year after the repair the unit has done the same thing and the damage is more sever. The problem seems to be a heater exchange reservoir. I have now been instructed to install a water softner system, the problem is.... the construction is done and the budget is gone. It seems i am in a real dilemma.