The first of the year is a good time to check out the temperature and pressure relief valve on your water heater. The proper functioning of this device could keep your heater from exploding in your home!
The valves are designed to last for three to four years - so yours may need to be replaced if it is very old. The valve is designed to release water from the tank if the pressure gets too high or if it gets too hot. By releasing water and pressure, an explosion is averted.
To test, if it does not look corroded, lift on the lever at the top of the value. Do not force it. If it takes a lot of force to open, it will not reseat - resulting in a leak! In this case you should replace the valve.
If it functions, then you should hear water running in the line and see water coming out of the line connected to the valve somewhere on the outside of your home. IMPORTANT - KNOW WHERE THE WATER LINE EXISTS THE HOME BEFORE TESTING! When it reseats, you should see the water stop. If the water does not stop, then that is a sign that you need a replacement valve for your heater. We recommend that you use a licensed plumber to make this repair.
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