How to remove and replace the pressure relief valve on your water heater

If your water heater has been leaking or you’ve noticed water dripping from the pressure relief valve, it might be time to replace it. Like any part, it can wear out over time. The good news? Removing and replacing it isn’t too hard, and you can do it yourself with just a few tools and a little patience. We’ll walk you through it.

If you need any replacement parts for your appliances, you can enter your model number at AppliancePartsPros.com to order them. Most orders arrive in just two business days, and we have thousands of free guides to show you how to install your new parts.

Important: The information provided in this article may not apply to your specific appliance model. While we strive to offer helpful advice for DIY appliance repairs, variations in models and configurations can lead to differences in troubleshooting steps, error codes and part replacements. For the most accurate guidance, we strongly recommend consulting the technical sheet for your specific appliance model.

Common reasons to replace the water heater pressure relief valve

The pressure relief valve for a water heater, also known as the temperature and pressure (T&P) valve, releases water when the pressure or temperature inside the tank exceeds safe limits. Without this valve, pressure could build up in the tank, leading to serious damage.

Here are the most frequent causes of failure:

• Excessive water pressure- High water pressure in your home’s plumbing system can force the water heater pressure relief valve to open frequently, causing it to wear out faster. If this happens often, you might need to replace the pressure release valve on the water heater.
• Overheating- If the water heater’s thermostat malfunctions or is set too high, it can cause the water to overheat. This leads to excess pressure and forces the valve to open, which can wear it out over time. In such cases, a hot water relief valve replacement is often necessary.
• Sediment buildup- Sediment at the bottom of the tank can cause overheating, which increases the pressure inside the tank. This forces the water heater pressure valve to open more frequently, eventually leading to failure.
• Corrosion- Corrosion can occur due to exposure to hard water or sediment buildup inside the tank. When the relief valve on a water heater becomes corroded, it may leak or fail to function properly, which means it’s time for a water heater pressure relief valve replacement.

How to remove and replace the pressure relief valve

If your water heater pressure valve is faulty, here’s a step-by-step guide on how to remove and replace it:

Turn off the power and water supply

1. Turn off the power to your water heater.
   1. For electric models, flip the circuit breaker.
   2. For gas heaters, also turn off the gas supply.
2. Turn off the water supply to the tank to prevent water leakage during the replacement process.

Drain the water heater

1. Attach a hose to the drain valve at the bottom of the heater.
2. Drain enough water from the tank to lower the water level below the valve.
3. This will prevent water from spilling when you remove the pressure relief valve for the water heater.

Locate and remove the pressure relief valve

1. Locate the hot water tank pressure valve, typically found on the top or side of the tank, connected to a discharge pipe.
2. Use a pipe wrench to loosen the connection between the discharge pipe and the pressure relief valve. Be prepared for some water to spill out when disconnecting the pipe.
3. Use an adjustable wrench to unscrew the pressure relief valve from the water heater tank in a counterclockwise direction. Some water may still be present in the tank, so be prepared for spillage.
4. If the valve is stuck, apply a bit of penetrating oil to loosen it.

Install the new pressure valve

1. Wrap the threads of the new pressure relief valve for the water heater with Teflon tape to ensure a watertight seal. Do not over-tape as excess tape can cause leaks.
2. Carefully thread the new pressure relief valve into the opening on the water heater tank in a clockwise direction. Tighten the valve securely using an adjustable wrench, being careful not to overtighten to avoid damaging it.

Reconnect the discharge pipe and restore power

1. Reattach the discharge pipe to the new pressure relief valve using a pipe wrench. Ensure the connection is tight to prevent leaks.
2. Open the cold water supply valve to the water heater and allow the tank to fill up. Check for any leaks around the new pressure relief valve and discharge pipe.
3. For electric water heaters, turn on the power supply. For gas water heaters, relight the pilot light and ensure the burner is functioning correctly.
4. Test the new pressure relief valve by lifting the lever on the valve. You should hear water flowing through the discharge pipe, indicating that the valve is working properly.

People also ask

Why should I replace the pressure relief valve on my water heater?

The pressure relief valve is a critical safety feature that prevents excess pressure or temperature buildup in your water heater. If the valve becomes faulty, it can lead to dangerous situations, such as leaks, overheating, or even tank rupture. Common signs you need to replace the pressure relief valve include continuous leaking, corrosion around the valve, or inconsistent water temperature.

How do I know if my water heater pressure relief valve is bad?

Signs that your water heater pressure relief valve is bad include:

• Constant dripping or leaking: If water is consistently leaking from the valve, it may be stuck open or damaged.
• Corrosion or buildup: Visible rust or sediment around the valve indicates that it may no longer function properly.
• Inconsistent water temperature: If your water heater is running too hot or cold, the valve could be malfunctioning. In these cases, replacing the pressure relief valve is necessary to maintain safety.

Can I replace the pressure relief valve on my water heater myself?

Yes, you can often replace the pressure relief valve on your water heater yourself by following a few simple steps. Turn off the power and water supply, drain some water from the tank, remove the old valve, and install the new one. Always ensure the new valve matches your water heater’s specifications. If you’re unsure, it’s a good idea to consult a professional.

How often should I replace the pressure relief valve on a water heater?

The pressure relief valve should typically be replaced every 5 to 7 years or whenever it shows signs of wear, such as leaking or corrosion. Regularly checking and maintaining the valve can help prevent pressure-related issues and prolong the life of your water heater.

What are the risks of not replacing a faulty pressure relief valve?

Failing to replace a faulty pressure relief valve can lead to serious risks, including:

• Overheating: A malfunctioning valve can prevent the release of excess heat, causing the water heater to overheat.
• Pressure buildup: Without a functioning valve, pressure can build up inside the tank, potentially causing leaks or even an explosion.
• Water damage: Continuous leaking from the valve can result in water damage around the water heater.

Additional information

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