Preventing Plumbing ProblemsPreventing Plumbing Problems

The drain valve is the valve near the bottom of your hot water tank. It is designed to allow you to drain the tank in order to remove sediment. Sometimes, however, this valve may grow worn and begin to leak. When this happens, many homeowners assume they need to replace their hot water tank. However, a drain valve is actually quite inexpensive to replace, and, if you're handy, you can even do it yourself by following these steps.

1. Turn off all power and water supplies.

If you have a gas water heater, turn off the gas supply. If you have an electric one, disconnect the power (You may also want to turn the power off at the breaker box, just to be sure.) Then, turn off the water supply valve, which should be located at the top of the tank. This is very important since you do not want the water to just gush everywhere when you remove the valve.

2. Drain the tank.

You'll need to remove the existing water from the tank before you can replace the valve. Connect a hose to the drain valve, and run the hose either outside or to the nearest drain. Turn the valve on, and let the tank drain until no more water is coming out of the hose.

3. Remove the old valve.

Place a bucket under the drain valve to catch any remaining water that may come sloshing out. Then, use pliers or vice grips to remove the old valve. You'll need to give it some elbow grease, but you should be able to just turn it to the left to remove it. Lefty loosey, as the saying goes. 

4. Buy a new valve.

Take the old valve with you to the hardware store to ensure you buy a new one in the same size. Also, buy a roll of plumber's tape when you are there.

5. Prep and install the new valve.

Wrap the stem of the new valve with plumber's tape. This will ensure a strong, leak-free seal when you install the valve. Insert the taped-up valve into the threaded hole, and turn it to the right to secure it. When you cannot get it any tighter with your hands, use a wrench to tighten it the rest of the way.

That's it! You have a new, non-leaky valve. Reconnect the power, turn the water supply back on, and in an hour, you'll be able to take a hot shower. Reach out to a company like Arnold & Sons Plumbing, Sewer & Drain Services for more information.