How to Replace the Pressure Valve on a Water Heater
Pressure relief valves are found on gas or electric water heaters. The pressure relief valve is responsible for releasing pressure in the water heater. When the water heater begins to heat the water, it expands, increasing the pressure within the tank. If the pressure relief valve is damaged or leaking, you may need to replace the valve. Replacement of the pressure relief valve can be done by a professional, but you can save money by following a few steps and doing the job yourself. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
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1
Turn off the heater by turning the thermostat all the way down if the heater runs on gas, or disconnecting the power if the heater runs on electric power.
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2
Bleed the hot water from the tank to avoid any burns by turning on a faucet in your house and allowing the hot water to run until it turns cold, and then turn the faucet off.
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3
Shut the water off at the tank by turning the cold water pipe to "Off". There is a lever on the pipe to allow you to switch the water on and off.
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4
Release the water pressure from the water tank by raising the lever on the pressure relief valve. Be sure to place a bucket under the overflow pipe, because releasing the pressure will cause water to flow out of the overflow pipe. Once water stops flowing, close the pressure relief valve.
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5
Unscrew the overflow pipe from the pressure relief valve by using a pipe wrench. Detach the pressure relief valve from the heater using a large pipe wrench and turning the valve counterclockwise. If the pressure relief valve is old or deteriorated, you may have to apply extreme force to remove the valve.
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Apply joint compound on the threads of the new pressure relief valve. Screw the new valve onto the heater by pushing the threaded end of the valve into the hole and turning it clockwise. Reinstall the overflow pipe by screwing it back into place.
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Turn the water back on by switching the lever located on the pipe to "On." Reconnect the heater's electricity or turn the thermostat back up if the heater runs on gas. You are now ready to start using your hot water again.
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Tips & Warnings
To avoid burns, wear work gloves to protect your hands, and wear goggles to protect your eyes.
