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Water Heater Temp & Pressure Relief Valve Drain Line

Discussion in 'Homeowners Corner' started by jager, Nov 30, 2016.

  1. jager

    jager New Member

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    I checked my T&P valve the other day to make sure it was working. Hot water came shooting out of the unit through the drain line as expected. A few hours later I came back to check on the water heater and the drain line was still very hot to the touch. I waited until morning to check the drain line again and it was still hot. My gas line is very close to the drain line. I'm wondering if this is a safety concern since the line tends to stay warm all the time. Am I being paranoid? I've attached a few pictures to show how close the gas line is...

    Water Heater 1.jpg Water Heater 2.jpg
     
  2. Rhaegar

    Rhaegar Member

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    I have no idea, however, I will add two data points. The point of a T&P valve is to start spraying if things get too hot/steamy. If it's not spraying, that's good.

    The second is that I managed to nick and ignite a flame from the hole on a gas line by scraping it with a dull coat hanger type of metal hook Luckily I noticed my new "pilot light" when I turned the light off. So, after garage door springs, gas lines are the second best thing to actually be concerned about, however, it's not going to ignite from heat alone.
     
  3. jager

    jager New Member

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    Thanks for the feedback, Rhaegar!
     
  4. KTdid

    KTdid Well-Known Member

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    It had to pass a final inspection as configured, unless you suspect a replacement was done by a prior owner - you can always check the county permits and/or ask an inspector to look at it out of safety concerns.
     
  5. jager

    jager New Member

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    Thanks, KTdid. I'll do some research and check.
     
  6. merky1

    merky1 Member

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    So, if your Hot Water Heater is > 10 Years old, and the TPR is releasing water / steam, it might need to be replaced (especially if the drain pipe is constantly hot). If your sump pump seems to be running more often, that is a sign since typically they run the HW overflow into the sump.

    Depending on the brand of hot water heater, this may be a 30 minute $20 self service job, or if its embedded in the unit than you will need to replace the entire heater. Basically, if its over 10 years old, there is enough crud and decay that the valve replacement process may cause the entire unit to need to be replaced.

    Keep in mind that the newer HW heaters have additional requirements, and you may need to upgrade your venting. I had to fight my way through the process to find a regulation unit that did not require "turbo" ductwork. Again, YMMV given the differences in plumbers.
     
  7. jager

    jager New Member

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    Thanks, Merky1.
     

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