If all goes well, a TPR valve never gets used intentionally except during testing.
But in the event of an emergency or malfunction, this valve is of critical importance.
It can potentially prevent your water heater from exploding.
Lee Wallender
The valve provides relief to the water heater if the pressure exceeds normal operating limits, usually 150 psi.
In a standard water heater, the water is heated by a gas burner or electric elements.
As thewater reaches temperaturesbetween 120 and 140 degrees Fahrenheit, both the water and the water heater’s metaltankexpand.
Someexpansionis normal, but too much expansion is unsafe.
This is done when the water heater is installed.
Here are some things that the T&P valve does not do.
A threaded inlet is welded onto the side of the tank.
This inlet cannot be removed or replaced.
The T&P valve is screwed clockwise onto that inlet.
Most homeowners can do this by themselves.
Wear closed-toe shoes to avoid scalding.
Except for a bucket, no tools are required.
Place Bucket
Place a bucket below the discharge tube.
Check Attachment
see to it that the discharge tube is firmly attached.
If it is loose, tighten it by screwing clockwise.
Release Lever
Release the lever and let it snap back to its original position.
If the lever does not snap back into place, the valve is faulty and must be replaced.
This is especially likely if the leaking occurs immediately after an old valve is replaced.
Either condition is a potentially serious problem.
When stuck downward, the valve cannot provide relief if the system reaches maximum pressure.
As a result, the water heater tank might rupture.
The stickiness of the valve can sometimes be remedied by simply opening and closing the lever several times.
Jiggle the T&P valve by gently pulling the lever towards you.
Much like jiggling a toilet handle, this action may be enough to unstick the valve.
If this does not fix the problem, replace the valve.
Emergency Drinking Water.Alameda County (California)
