Hot water tank pressure release valve

[deano]

Last time out the pressure release valve on HWT was burpng some water a couple times. We dont leave it on all the time. Turn off at night just when needed. Open the valve and release and stops . Assuming a weak valve. Anyone else experience this. Thanks

[dalfaro]

It’s very common. My hot water heater drips from the valve while heating also not every time but it does do it.

[Mike-NM]

If it is periodically doing this then it is probably fine. If it is a constant leak then you probably have a bad seal. The pressure Relief Valve must open at a predetermined set pressure flow a rated capacity at a specified overpressure, and close when the system pressure has returned to a safe level. The set pressure is usually identified on the valve, manually opening and closing the valve can cause issues and damage the seal. similarly to a pressure relief valve on a house water heater it is normally check when installed and that is it , it is to be left alone or it could get damaged and fail when you need it.

If it is working like it is suppose to as it will open and close releasing pressure hence the "burping" of the water. Pressure relief valve leaks usually occur when the valve isn't properly seated or when the seal is broken or damaged. Leaks can also happen when the pressure relief valve is operating too closely to the set point.

[deano]

Thanks for the responses. After 5yrs. Hadn't noticed it before. I'll keep an eye on closer maybe been doing longer and hadn't noticed it.

[skids]

I would just replace it.