Opening a water heater pressure relief valve is quite straightforward.
Have you been wondering how to open up a water heater pressure relief valve? For most homeowners, messing with the water heater tank could feel like a bit of a nerve-wracking task. However, opening a pressure relief valve is quite straightforward. The most challenging part of this task is finding the hot water heater pressure valve on your certain model. Read on to learn how to locate your water pressure valve and how to open it.
How to Locate the Water Heater Pressure Relief Valve
Otherwise known as the temperature/pressure relief valve or the TPR valve, this is located around the top of your water heater. It usually features a lever that you can lift up or down and has a discharge pipe that runs from the valve all the way down to the water heater’s base. If you are not sure where to locate the valve, refer to your owner’s manual or ask a professional plumber from B&D. The purpose of the valve is to release water, thereby lowering the pressure within your water tank. Without a water heater pressure relief valve, the pressure inside the water tank could become higher than the tank is supposed to handle. This could lead to an explosion. Testing the valve annually is a crucial task to maintain the safety and function of your water heater tank.
How to Open Your Hot Water Pressure Relief Valve
Always refer to your manual or consult with a professional before you start troubleshooting your water tank. For most common units, open the water pressure relief by lifting the valve until the attached brass stem rises. Once you do this, hot water will rush out of the pipe near the bottom of your water tank. Then, push the lever all the way back down to close the valve and stop any water from flowing out.
Why Do You Have to Open the Hot Water Pressure Relief Valve?
There are a handful of reasons why you might have to open the pressure relief valve on your water tank. These include:
- Checking for water leaks in your water heater
- Ensuring the valve is working the right way
- Relieving built-up pressure inside the water tank
If you discover that the valve isn’t working the right way or you think there could be a leak, then it is time to seek out from the professional plumbers at B&D Plumbing. We will get to the bottom your issues and help with any repairs!
Get in Touch With B&D Today!
Dealing with any plumbing concerns that require a professional to step in? Struggling with an absolute plumbing emergency that can’t wait? Let B&D Plumbing know. B&D Plumbing Inc. services the greater Washington D.C. metropolitan area, including Maryland and Northern Virginia. Get in touch with us by calling (301) 595-1141 or follow us on social media, including Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Pinterest. As a small, family-owned business, we understand how important your home is—and we offer exceptional service that matches!