Forum Discussion

JoshInReno's avatar
JoshInReno
Explorer
Sep 21, 2017

Water Heater Pressure Relief Valve Outlet Size?

I have a stinky (mild rotten egg smell) water heater on my trailer that I need to deodorize with hydrogen peroxide. I am thinking of filling the water heater through the pressure relief valve. But I don't know the thread size to buy to appropriate fitting.

This is what I am trying to avoid doing:



Unfortunately I can't do much by trial and error because the trailer is at a remote campsite. The nearest hardware store is 80+ miles each way. The campsite is also 4 hours from my home. I am going up this weekend to get this and a few other projects done but time is very limited. I really don't want to pull the valve from the water heater if I can avoid it.

I guess the question is: are the outlets a universal size or should I bring a selection of sizes? I'm guessing 1/2"? NPT I'm assuming?

Thanks!

15 Replies

  • Suburban uses a 3/4" NPT

    Atwood uses a 1/2" NPT IF it is a 2003 and older model
    Atwood uses a 3/4" NPT IF it is a 2004 and newer model


    Really don't need any fittings, adapters etc

    Just remove T&P Relief Valve and pour vinegar (4 gal to 2 gal water) or Hydrogen Peroxide solutions in thru opening using a FUNNEL'
  • SidecarFlip wrote:
    It's a standard box store / hardware store T&P valve just like you have on your residential HWH. One size basically fits all.


    Well that's why I asked. I'm going through my handy Grainger catalog here and I'm seeing valves with an outlet size of 1/2, 3/4, 1 and even larger. I'm not seeing much consistency.

    I think I'm just going to take 3/8, 1/2 and 3/4 fittings to be safe.
  • Until a few years ago, Atwood used a 1/2" t&p valve, though I believe the outlet was 3/4" Not certain though, and my stock is in a moving container at the moment, so I cannot check.
  • It's a standard box store / hardware store T&P valve just like you have on your residential HWH. One size basically fits all.

About Technical Issues

Having RV issues? Connect with others who have been in your shoes.24,283 PostsLatest Activity: Jul 17, 2025