Water Heaters - Temperature and Pressure-Relief Valve Maintenance

Once a year, it is recommended to lift and release the lever handle on the Temperature and Pressure Relief Valve, located on the front-right side of the water heater, to make certain the valve operates freely. Allow several gallons to flush through the discharge line to an open drain. 

Before manually operating the relief valve, make certain no one will be exposed to the danger of coming in contact with the hot water released by the valve. The water may be hot enough to create a scald hazard. The water should be released into a suitable drain to prevent injury or property damage. 

NOTE: If the Temperature and Pressure-Relief Valve on the hot water heater discharges periodically, this may be due to thermal expansion in a closed water system. Contact the water supplier or your plumbing contractor on how to correct this. Do not plug the relief valve outlet.