Posted by Joe I on January 13, 1998 at 18:53:13:
In Reply to: Re: Re: Re: Water heater - Relief valve & Rust posted by Barry (correction) on January 12, 1998 at 19:32:34:
: : : : Hey!
: : : : For the past few months we have noticed that when we first turn on the hot water, it's orange for a few seconds.
: : : : We did'nt think much of it, until yesterday while my wife was in the laundrty room, the relief valve blew (scared the crap out of her!).
: : : : Now, everytime the heater "heats" (Sears, gas, 1991), the relief valve drips. The water is also VERY orange, almost brown with rust.
: : : : (just the hot...not the cold) It seems to be pressure, not temperature that makes the valve leak, as I can turn on a nearby faucet and it will stop.
: : : : How long do water heaters last? This one is 7 years old...Is it dying, or do I just need a new relief valve.
: : : : The house pressure seems the same, do I wouldnt think it's the PRV.
: : : : (by the way, we've only been in this house 6 months, so we don;t know if the heater
: : : : has been given regular maintenence.)
:
: : : : Idea's?
: : : : Thanks!
: : : : Barry
: : : Hot water heaters have different warranties 5yr,8yr&10yr. If you heater leaks before your warranty expires you should able to received a replacement heater and the balance of the warranty. As for your leaking relief valve it should be replaced with a new T&P relief valve. The rust can be flush out of the tank. Hook a hose on the drain valve and flush out your tank until the water is clear.
: :
: : This may seem like a stupid question, but how long should it take to "clear out" a 450 gallon tank? I let the water run for over 30 mionutes (with a hose on the"drain bib"). It never did run clear, although it did get a little lighter...
: : This is probably the first time since it was installed tyat it has ever been "purged". In addition to the water color, I saw many particles & flakes when I performed the procedure you suggested...
:
: OOOPs...I mean 40 gallon...
Barry keep flushing the the tank it should clear up