When monitoring your household plumbing keep in mind that small parts like a pressure relief valve are important to the safety of you and your family. Inspecting these small parts can prevent major damage down the road, and we recommend that you have your system inspected at least every couple of years by a professional plumber. If you haven’t heard of this valve, here is what you need to know. What is a temperature and pressure relief valve and what does it do? The temperature and pressure relief valve is installed in order to help relieve pressure from your water heater.  If your water heater gets too hot, steam and pressure can start to build up and if it isn’t let out there could be a potential explosion.  This valve helps to keep your family safe by reducing the pressure. It will typically discharge water when it reaches 150 psig or 210 degrees. If your valve has to go to work, this is a sign of an issue with your water heater that warrants an inspection and possible repair or replacement. How is this diagnosed? If your water heater is discharging a cup of water for every 10 gallons of water that is being heated up, thermal expansion is likely to blame.  In other words, the water in your tank is heating up so significantly that it is expanding and creating additional pressure that then needs to be released.  You may notice a leak near your water heater which also indicates that this is what’s happening. In this scenario, the pressure on your valve may become too great and require replacement.  As far as plumbing is concerned this is an easy fix but an important one. What leads to the increased pressure and my temperature and pressure relief valve to start working? There are several reasons that this can start including extreme temperatures, a faulty valve, thermal expansion, too much pressure or a bad thermostat.  All of these can be addressed by your plumber. Fixing or replacing the valve. We highly recommend having a professional come out and replace your valve, if it is leaking.  Doing this on your own can be dangerous because when you try to do the repair, hot water and steam can be released and burn you.  We understand how to complete the repair safely and are experts at getting the job done right the first time.  If you burn yourself or do it incorrectly, you will end up with additional costs, making the chance for savings not worth the risk. While this is a common plumbing problem, it is still important to address and correct right away.  Having a constant leak from your water heater wastes water and will cause your bill to be higher.  Additionally, it could pose risks for your family’s safety if there is a problem with the thermostat.  Water could be released through the faucets at a higher temperature than expected and burn you or your children.  Don’t take these risks – hire a professional to inspect your temperature and pressure relief valve.