Replacing The Pressure Relief Valve For A Water Heater
As the winter sets in, people start using hot water to carry out their daily household activities
. Even a small disruption in the working of the water heater can upset the overall arrangement. People living in colder places are more dependent on this appliance for their daily requirements. Pressure relief valves are found on gas or electric water heaters. The pressure relief valve is responsible for releasing pressure in the water heater.
If the pressure relief valve is damaged or leaking, you may need to replace the valve. Leaky pressure valve should not be overlooked and the replacement must be dome as soon as possible.
Remove all electric power from the hot water heater. In the case of a gas fired hot water heater, shut off the gas by the gas valve on the water heater tank. Shut off the cold water feed to the hot water tank.
Empty the water from the heater. Open a hot water faucet, and drain the water. It will hardly take approximately three to five minutes. No need to empty the full tank, just do it up to the level of the relief valve.
Having drained the water, detach the drain pipe from the relief valve using the wrench. This valve is located on top of the tank and often is threaded directly into the tank top itself.
Now, unscrew and remove the damaged relief valve with the help of wrench. Wrap some Teflon tape on the new relief valve. Attach this valve to the drain pipe.
Install the drainpipe into the valve. Close the lower drain spigot on the hot water tank. Open the cold water feed valve. Close the hot water faucet and check for leaks. Remove the garden hose. Re- energize or relight the gas pilot on the hot water tank.
Consult with a professional, if you have any doubts about tackling this job yourself. Testing the relief valve requires opening the vent pipe and scalding water issues from the pipe when you do this. So, be careful.