TPR VALVES

A Temperature and Pressure Relief (TPR) valve is a critical safety device installed on all water heaters and boilers to prevent the tank from over-pressurizing or overheating, which could otherwise lead to an explosion. Signs of activity may me valve is defective or more serious problems, discharge pipes, when missing, increase risk of burning.

LOOSE TOILETS

Why is a loose toilet a big problem? A toilet sits on a wax ring that creates a watertight seal between the toilet and the drain flange.When the toilet rocks, shifts, or wobbles, it can break that seal. Even tiny leaks from a broken wax ring can rot wood subflooring. And it is “waste water” that is leaking, not fresh water. A toilet rarely “stays slightly loose.” It tends to keep loosening and eventually will leak.

WATER PRESSURE TOO HIGH

Most homes should have water pressure between 40–80 psi. While 60 psi is ideal, many homes test at 80 psi the maximum safe limit — anything above that should be corrected with an adjustment to the pressure regulator or installation of a pressure-reducing valve (PRV). High pressure feels great in the shower, but it has hidden dangers. It can cause leaks in plumbing lines, damage appliances like ice makers & water dispensers, and cause “water hammer”or banging in pipes.

WATER TEMPERATURE TOO HIGH

The normal (and recommended) hot water temperature in a home is 120°F (49°C). Why is 120°F the standard? It prevents scalding — especially important for kids and older adults, it is energy efficient — avoids unnecessary heating costs, it prevents mineral buildup — very hot water accelerates scale in pipes and the water heater, and it is still hot enough to kill most bacteria inside the tank. Why do the limits exist, because scalding happens fast: 125°F can scald infant & elderly skin, 140°F water can cause severe burns in 5 seconds, 150°F in 1.5 seconds. 120°F is the safe-use standard for all household fixtures.