The temperature and pressure relief valve, or T&P valve, is often the cause of water heater leaks. This valve is situated close to the top of a water heater tank. The device is used to safeguard the homeowner from high pressure levels or excessive temperatures in the water heater.
When to Contact a Plumbing Company
You need to contact a plumber in Jacksonville, FL if water is discharging in this location or you notice that the water heater is operating at too high of a pressure or temperature. If you have regular plumbing inspections, you can keep this type of repair from happening.
If your water heater is not operating properly, a plumber will first check the temperature for the device. Typically, the thermostat should be set at “medium” or around 120 degrees Fahrenheit. A plumbing specialist will remove the valve and inspect it for signs of corrosion or mineral buildup.
If your home has hard water, the minerals from the water can corrode metal parts or clog the valve, resulting in failure. This often happens when the water source is a well. If you have a municipal water supply, check with the utility to see if the mineral concentration is high.
Identifying the Reason for the Leak
If a plumber notices after removing the valve that it appears clean, he or she may find that a backflow preventer exists at the main shutoff or water meter. Only a plumbing specialist can identify the cause in this case.
Again, to avoid such problems, it is important to contact a plumbing company for routine inspections and servicing. For instance, the water heater should be flushed routinely to remove sediment from the bottom of the tank.
Often, homeowners wait until they hear the tank making noises. If they wait this long, a flush may reveal a leak in the drain valve. The process can be time-consuming as the water needs to be shut off and the tank drained.
Needless to say, it pays — literally — to depend on the services of a local plumbing specialist. Visit American Plumbing Contractors online and set up an appointment for an inspection and maintenance today. Stay on top of any plumbing problems by scheduling regular services.
