Five Signs of a Bad Pressure Valve in Your Water Heater: What Chagrin Falls Residents Should Know

Has your water heater been acting a little wonky lately? If so, the pressure relief valve might be to blame. Let Formica Plumbing and Sewer Co. fix the problem for you with an expert plumbing repair in Chagrin Falls, OH. 

But first, it helps to know the signs of a bad pressure relief valve in a water heater. Our plumbers list some of the more common indicators below. 

What Are Pressure Relief Valves?

As their name implies, pressure relief valves alleviate the pressure building up in the water heater’s heating tank. The tanks are built to withstand significant pressure, but too much of it can lead to an explosion. The average pressure limit is around 150 pounds per square inch.

Once the pressure exceeds this limit, the valve automatically opens to let hot water out of the tank, making more room inside. Anything that interrupts this process could be hazardous if left unaddressed.

Signs of a Bad Pressure Relief Valve in Your Water Heater in Chagrin Falls, Ohio

The signs that you need a new valve range from constant leaks to obnoxious sounds. We’ll go over five of these symptoms in depth below. If you notice any of the following when using your appliance, call our plumbers in Chagrin Falls, Ohio, immediately.

#1 Leakage on the Floor

The valve might produce a persistent but manageable trickle or splattered puddle on the floor beneath it. Any constant flooding from the valve either means your tank has chronic pressure buildup or the valve isn’t working properly. Either way, you’re looking at wasted water or a potentially dangerous situation. 

#2 Lots of Noise

You might hear excessive valve noise when the unit releases water. Sometimes, it sounds like a soft but shrill whistle. Other times, your appliance might rattle as the valve engages. 

If you discover fresh water on the floor immediately after hearing the noise, you’ve stumbled upon one of the most undeniable signs of a bad pressure relief valve in a water heater.

#3 Nasty Water From the Hot Tap

Pour a glass of water from the hot tap and examine it. Can you see any debris floating in it? These particles could indicate corrosion in your tank’s interior. 

In that case, your misbehaving pressure relief valve might be part of a bigger problem. Some of the metal parts, including the tank and valve, can corrode after years of contact with warm water. Eventually, bits may detach and infiltrate your water supply. You’ll have to replace any part flaking off into the water.

#4 Tank Damage

Sometimes, a damaged pressure relief valve doesn’t release water when it should. This can result in a ruptured heater tank, which leaks water onto the floor. If you discover puddles that aren’t directly below the valve, examine the tank exterior. 

Check the tank seam for lifted or open areas that might be allowing water to escape. If you find one, you should hire a qualified plumber to replace the whole appliance outright. Until then, you’ll want to refrain from using the appliance to ensure your household’s safety. 

#5 Temperature Inconsistencies

Some people only discover their water heater is malfunctioning when they take a shower. As pressure builds up inside the tank, it heats the water rapidly, which means you may be in for an unpleasant surprise the next time you turn on the hot water knob. 

One of the clearest signs of a bad pressure relief valve or water heater is wild temperature fluctuations. The water feels lukewarm at first, but it can skyrocket toward scalding within a few minutes, leading to potential burns.

Keeping the Whole Appliance Operating Safely

If your water heater is generally still intact, you may get by with a simple valve cleaning or replacement. Either way, you can prevent these issues from happening again by:

• Scheduling regular maintenance services in Chagrin Falls, Ohio
• Replacing components like anode rods every few years or so
• Keeping the water heater flushed to prevent debris buildup
• Insulating your water heater during frigid weather to avoid overworking it
  

Formica Plumbing and Sewer Co. Repairs Water Heaters and Other Plumbing Fixtures in Chagrin Falls, Ohio

Now that you know the signs of a bad pressure relief valve in a water heater, learn what impacts the lifespan of water heaters so you can take better care of yours. Then, contact Formica Plumbing and Sewer Co. for the best water heater services in Chagrin Falls, Ohio.