Safety First

With a little effort, you can keep your gas and electric water heaters working efficiently. Some repairs are simple, like how to drain a gas or electric water heater and pressure relief valve and tank or pilot light maintenance. However, if you aren’t comfortable working with gas or electricity, always call a professional.

Check the Pressure Valve

Both gas and electric water heaters have a safety device called a temperature and pressure relief valve, or T&P valve for short. In the event the tank overpressurizes, the relief valve opens and releases the pressure. If the valve doesn’t operate correctly, the tank can overpressurize and explode.