Water heater is leaking from the pressure relief valve discharge pipe
Safety Warning
This repair may involve working with high voltage components or water connections. Always unplug the appliance before removing any panels.
If you are not confident in your ability to perform this repair safely, we strongly recommend contacting a professional technician.
Possible Causes
How to Fix / Troubleshooting
Safety first: Hot water from the relief valve can cause burns. Do not cap or plug the relief valve discharge.
Steps to check:
- Check system pressure: Have a plumber measure static water pressure; if above 80 psi, a pressure-reducing valve and expansion tank may be needed.
- Inspect expansion tank: If present, ensure it is properly charged and not waterlogged.
- Replace relief valve: If the valve drips continuously even at normal pressure and temperature, it may be defective and should be replaced by a professional.
When to call a professional: A plumber or technician should evaluate system pressure, expansion, and replace the relief valve if necessary.
Repair Difficulty
Required Part
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