Which temperature should the T&P relief valve be designed to open to protect the water heater?

Which temperature should the T&P relief valve be designed to open to protect the water heater?

• A. 180 degrees Fahrenheit
• B. 200 degrees Fahrenheit
• C. 230 degrees Fahrenheit
• D. 210 degrees Fahrenheit

Answer: (D)

The safety device on a water heater is there to vent water if things get too hot or the pressure gets too high, protecting the tank from damage. It is designed to open at a specific temperature—210 degrees Fahrenheit—so it stays shut during normal operation (when water is typically around 120°F) but will release water before the temperature climbs to a dangerous level. The valve also has a pressure limit (usually around 150 psi), and it will vent if pressure hits that limit first. Among the options, 210°F is the standard rating that provides protection without nuisance openings, while 180°F would vent too early, 200°F isn’t the standard rating, and 230°F would delay protection until the condition is more severe.

The safety device on a water heater is there to vent water if things get too hot or the pressure gets too high, protecting the tank from damage. It is designed to open at a specific temperature—210 degrees Fahrenheit—so it stays shut during normal operation (when water is typically around 120°F) but will release water before the temperature climbs to a dangerous level. The valve also has a pressure limit (usually around 150 psi), and it will vent if pressure hits that limit first. Among the options, 210°F is the standard rating that provides protection without nuisance openings, while 180°F would vent too early, 200°F isn’t the standard rating, and 230°F would delay protection until the condition is more severe.