How to Change a Pressure Relief Valve on a Hot Water Tank
A pressure relief valve on a water heater is designed to do one thing, and that is release any water pressure or steam pressure. Once the pressure is stronger than the pressure of the spring in the valve, the pressure is released out of a dip tube. If this piece does not work, then there is a chance of the water heater exploding. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
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1
Unplug the water heater tank from the wall, and shut off the breaker, which is usually located in the garage.
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2
Screw a hose on the tank drain at the bottom of the tank. Run the hose out the house, ensuring that it is at a lower elevation outside than it is at the tank. Drain the water to just below the pressure relief valve. Close the drain valve, and unscrew the hose.
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3
Turn on a hot water faucet in the house to relieve pressure in the water lines. Remove the tube that connects to the pressure relief valve. It will either pull out or you may have to cut it off with a hack saw. Make sure you do not saw into the tank.
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4
Wrap Teflon tape around the threads of the new pressure relief valve. Check the hot water faucet that you turned on to ensure that it is only dripping. If it is running, check the main water line to ensure that the water was shut off.
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5
Remove the old pressure relief valve with a plumber's wrench. Unscrew it in a counterclockwise motion. Screw the new relief pressure valve into the opening. Tighten completely down with the plumber's wrench.
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6
Place plumber's putty around the top of the dip tube. Insert it into the new pressure relief valve. Allow the putty to dry according to manufacturer's instructions.
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7
Turn off the hot water faucet. Plug the water heater into the outlet, and turn on the breaker.
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