Why Your Water Heater Pressure Relief Valve Activates

Water heaters are equipped with a safety device known as a temperature and pressure, or T&P, relief valve. The device is located on the upper level of your water heater’s sidewall. It releases the contents of the water heater if the temperature or pressure within the tank exceeds safe levels. The water heater could explode due to the excessive pressure if the T&P relief valve fails to operate properly. If your T&P relief valve is releasing water, you need the assistance of a professional Las Vegas plumber to evaluate and correct this safety issue.

If the valve remains open when the water heater is cold, the water pressure in your house may be too high or the T&P valve could be defective. If the valve closes, the problem could be due to a defective thermostat. If the valve opens when the water heater is hot, the unit is experiencing excessive pressure from steam. This can occur when the temperature inside the water tank creates steam, which circumvents the expansion valve. This problem can occur due to a defective heating element or the T&P relief valve.

If you need assistance determining the reason that your T&P relief valve is venting water, contact our office. Diagnosing and repairing this water heater issue is best left to an experienced Henderson NV plumber. We can inspect your water heater and replace the valve or thermostat if necessary. Our crew can install a pressure regulator if required to ensure the safe operation of your water heater.