Water Heaters: What’s the Yellow Tag on the Valve?
Have you ever noticed a yellow tag tied onto a valve on your gas or electric water heater? Better yet, have you ever read it? Well, if you were to read the tag, it says:
WARNING:
FAILURE TO COMPLY WITH THESE INSTRUCTIONS REGARDING THIS VALVE CAN RESULT IN SERIOUS PERSONAL INJURY OR DEATH AND/OR SEVERE PROPERTY DAMAGE.
The yellow tag is on a Temperature Pressure Relief Valve, better known as the T&P Valve.
Note the important information regarding the T&P Valve:
The lever MUST be operated AT LEAST ONCE A YEAR by the by the owner of the water heater.
The T&P Valve should be inspected AT LEAST EVERY THREE YEARS and replaced, if necessary, by a licensed plumber.
There are two leading causes for the T&P Valve to trip on its own:
There is excessive pressure over 150 PSI.
The temperature exceeds 210 degrees Fahrenheit.
The T&P Valve is a safety valve. The Valve opens when a sufficient level of pressure is reached. Thus, allowing the heated water to spill out of the system relieving the pressure. Per state and local plumbing codes, drains should be run to an approved location, such as the exterior of the building, to allow for water to discharge outside. Should the T&P Valve trip, proper drainage will prevent accidental scalding and damage. If you ever find that your water heater does not have a T&P Valve located at either the top or right side of the water heater, and/or you find that the T&P Valve has been capped off, it’s best to turn off the water heater and call a licensed plumber. This type of problem needs to be addressed ASAP because essentially this creates the grounds for a potential bomb or missile in your home that could explode, and even though this is rare, it is a very real and dangerous potential.
If you are uncertain about your water heater’s T&P Valve, would like a safety inspection performed on your water heater, or have any other plumbing issues, give us a call and we will be happy to service your home or business.
Bahama Plumbing, where “plumbing is a beach, so relax and let us take care of it for you!”
