What is a TPR Valve?
An important safety device that prevents damage to your water heater.
Because water expands when heated, the enclosed space of a water heater needs a special valve to allow water to escape should the pressure become too strong. A TPR valve , or temperature-pressure relief valve, is designed to turn off when a pre-set temperature is reached. If the water heater thermostat were to fail, the pressure could continue to rise until the pressure exceeds the capacity of the tank (typically around 300 psi). If this happens, the tank could explode. Water heaters are required to be protected for both excessive temperature and pressure. Most of these devices are set to operate at a water temperature above 200° F and/or a pressure above 150 psi.
It’s important that a TPR valve only be tested by a trained professional. To make sure your water heater is working properly, it should be serviced annually by your plumber.
Have questions about your water heater or other plumbing system? Call MR Plumbing, we can help.
