Although it is strongly encouraged to have a licensed plumber assist you with all your water heater repair and maintenance needs, the process of replacing a pressure relief valve is not as complicated as some other plumbing tasks. Continue reading for a step-by-step instruction guide on how to swap out a defective pressure relief valve for a new one, as well as, what to do if you are not 100% confident about DIY plumbing repair.
Temperature and Pressure Relief Valves
The pressure relief valve on your hot water heater is also known as a temperature and pressure relief valve, T&P valve, or TRP valve. They are designed to release excess pressure from within the tank in the case that the water temperature gets too high. Basically, they prevent excess pressure buildup inside a water heater tank, making them incredibly important safety components.
Temperature and pressure relief valves are usually inexpensive, costing between $15 and $20 depending on the type you choose. They are available at any local home improvement store, plumbing parts store, or online. Just be sure you choose the proper T&P valve for your make and model water heater. Refer to the owners’ manual to confirm.
Replacing a T&P Valve
When you have a leak in your T&P valve, open and close it a few times to see if it will go away. If the leak does not stop within a day or two, you know it needs to be replaced. To replace a T&P valve, you will need a pipe wrench, and plumbers’ tape. If you have to replace the drain pipe, you will also need pipe glue and new piping that is designed for hot water, such as CPVC.
How to Get Started:
➀ Turn off the power. Depending on if you have a gas or electric water heater, you will need to either turn off the gas or flip the breaker to cut the power.
➁ Shut off the main cold water valve that feeds into your water heater.
➂ Turn on the valve at the bottom of the water heater, as well as, the T&P valve, to release any excess water and pressure. Allow them to drain for about a minute.
➃ Now you are ready to remove the overflow pipe from the T&P valve. However, if it is soldered or glued, it will need to be cut off. This is where you might decide to contact an Indianapolis plumber for help.
➄ Unscrew the old T&P valve using your pipe wrench.
➅ Grab your new T&P valve and wrap plumbers’ tape around the threads. Then screw the new valve onto your water heater making sure that the opening to the overflow pipe is turned away from the tank.
➆ Wrap plumbers’ tape on the threads of the drain pipe and put it back on the water heater.
➇ Turn your main cold water valve back on and check for any leaks. If you still have leaks, contact a licensed plumber for assistance. They may be able to give you DIY instructions over the phone or same-day service.
Professional Indianapolis Plumbing Service
Call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. at 317-784-1870 when you need a licensed plumber for Indianapolis water heater service and repair at an affordable price. We offer a wide range of standard and master plumber services for both residential and commercial properties. We also offer free estimates, free plumbing advice, and even free haul-away for old plumbing appliances like water heaters, water softeners, sump pumps, and more. Request a free estimate, today.
