Water Heater Pressure Relief Valve Test

After the test lower the water heater thermostat temperature to around 120 degrees fahrenheit to avoid scalding and overheating.

Water heater pressure relief valve test.

A buildup of mineral salt rust and corrosion can cause a tpr valve to freeze up and become nonoperational. In addition to testing the pressure release valve on your water heater keep your thermostat set at a safe temperature and flush your water heater annually. The ideal water pressure should be between 50 and 60 psi. If water continues to flow out of the valve after the test continue to raise and lower the valve to free any debris that may be putting it out of adjustment.

Gently lift up the t p valve s lever but make sure to not push it all the way up. The temperature and pressure relief valve tpr valve opens to release pressure buildup in the water heater when the temperature or the pressure get dangerously high preventing a possible explosion. You should hear water and air coming from the valve and see water flowing into the bucket. You only want to drain a gentle stream from the tank.

If you do it will lock and the water heater will drain.