Why Your Water Heater’s Pressure Relief Valve Is Leaking—and What to Do About It
- Admin
- Oct 9
- 2 min read
Understanding the Pressure Relief Valve
Every hot water tank has a temperature and pressure relief valve (T&P valve)—a crucial safety feature that prevents your water heater from building up excessive pressure.
When this valve leaks, it can indicate anything from normal operation to a potentially dangerous issue that requires immediate attention.
If you notice water dripping or pooling near your water heater, it’s important to take it seriously and understand what’s going on before a small problem turns into a major one.
Common Reasons a Pressure Relief Valve Leaks
1. Normal Operation
Occasionally, the valve releases a small amount of water to relieve pressure. This can happen when water heats and expands, especially if your system lacks an expansion tank.
2. High Water Pressure
Ada, Oklahoma, is known for having high municipal water pressure, which can strain your plumbing system and cause your relief valve to open more frequently.
If left unchecked, this pressure can shorten the life of your water heater and damage fixtures throughout your home.
3. Overheating
A thermostat malfunction can cause water to overheat, leading to excessive tank pressure. The valve may leak as a safety measure to prevent the tank from bursting.
4. Sediment Buildup
Over time, minerals in Ada’s hard water can cause sediment buildup at the bottom of the tank. This can lead to overheating, reduced efficiency, and pressure fluctuations that stress the relief valve.
5. A Faulty Valve
Like any mechanical part, T&P valves wear out over time. If your valve is old, corroded, or stuck open, it may simply need replacement.
Why You Shouldn’t Ignore a Leaking Valve
A leaking pressure relief valve is not something to overlook. It may seem minor, but it could be warning you that your water heater is under dangerous pressure levels or that another component in your plumbing system isn’t functioning correctly.
Ignoring it could lead to:
Water damage in your home
Higher energy bills
Reduced water heater lifespan
In rare cases, tank rupture or explosion
How Diamond Plumbing Can Help
At Diamond Plumbing in Ada, OK, our expert plumbers are trained to:
Diagnose the cause of your leaking relief valve
Test and replace faulty valves
Install pressure-reducing valves and expansion tanks to regulate your home’s water pressure
Flush sediment buildup to extend your water heater’s lifespan
Recommend long-term maintenance solutions for your specific home and water conditions
Our team understands the unique plumbing challenges in the Ada area, from hard water issues to high-pressure city lines, and we take pride in delivering reliable, long-lasting repairs.
Call the Ada Plumbing Experts Today
If your water heater’s pressure relief valve is leaking, don’t wait until it becomes a costly emergency.
Contact Diamond Plumbing Services, LLC today at 580.332.7668 or schedule service online at diamondplumbingok.com.
Our licensed plumbers will inspect your system, explain your options, and make sure your home’s hot water system is safe and efficient.
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