Water heater pressure release valve
2002 Montana. How easy/difficult is it to replace a pressure release valve on the water heater? Mine has a slow drip that probably will just get worse as time goes on. THANKS
Forum Discussion
Difficulty is relative......
Biggest issue is adequate room/clearance to properly get a wrench on it.
Sometimes it is just easier to remove exhaust vent if in the way.
And a dripping relief valve doesn't always mean that valve needs replacement.
Deposits can build up on valve seat causing it to not fully close.
Blowing valve out (opening valve and letting it snap close a couple of times WITH water supply turn on) will clear seat of debris
Also.if dripping is during heating cycle then 'air pocket' has been lost and pressure has increased enough to cause relief valve to 'weep'.
Air Pocket
Turn off water supply
Open closest faucet to relieve pressure (hot side)
Open PRV via lever.....let snap close when water stops flowing out
Turn on water supply
Close faucet
Biggest issue is adequate room/clearance to properly get a wrench on it.
Sometimes it is just easier to remove exhaust vent if in the way.
And a dripping relief valve doesn't always mean that valve needs replacement.
Deposits can build up on valve seat causing it to not fully close.
Blowing valve out (opening valve and letting it snap close a couple of times WITH water supply turn on) will clear seat of debris
Also.if dripping is during heating cycle then 'air pocket' has been lost and pressure has increased enough to cause relief valve to 'weep'.
Air Pocket
Turn off water supply
Open closest faucet to relieve pressure (hot side)
Open PRV via lever.....let snap close when water stops flowing out
Turn on water supply
Close faucet
