To ensure safe operation of your home’s storage tank water heater, it’s important that the appliance’s temperature and pressure relief valve is operating properly. In short, the T&P relief valve will open if the temperature is too high or the amount of pressure is too much for the water heater to safely handle. If you’re concerned about water heater safety, you’ll want to know how the T&P relief valve works.

The T&P relief valve is triggered by extreme temperatures when the water heater’s thermostat expands. A disk inside the thermostat is raised to allow the relief valve to release excess hot water. Cool water then enters the tank to lower the temperature inside the water heater.

The valve also reacts to excessive pressure by releasing heated water. When water is heated inside a closed tank, the water molecules will expand, which increases the pressure. This can keep the relief valve from closing fully. When the valve opens, pressure and water is released.

When the T&P relief valve is leaking water, this is a sign of excess water pressure. The water heater should be checked regularly to ensure that water is not leaking, or that the valve is not in the open position for long amounts of time. Consider upgrading an older water heater to ensure the most efficient operation.

Water heater safety is as critical to the safety of home occupants as the use of carbon monoxide and smoke detectors. For more expert advice about indoor safety and other home comfort related questions regarding your greater Peachtree City area home, please contact us at Powers Heating & Air.

Our goal is to help educate our customers in Peachtree City, Georgia and surrounding areas about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems).

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