Step 5 · Install the New T&P Valve

This is the step people usually slow down on. Go finger-tight first, then a quarter turn. No rush — replay the clip whenever it helps.

Use a clean rag to wipe the female threads on the water heater tank, removing any old sealant or debris. Take your new T&P relief valve and wrap the male threads with 3 to 4 layers of Teflon tape. It is crucial to wrap the tape in a clockwise direction (the same direction you will tighten the valve). This prevents the tape from unravelling during installation. Carefully thread the new valve into the tank opening by hand to avoid cross-threading. Once it's hand-tight, use the pipe wrench to tighten it another 1-2 full turns, until it is snug and the outlet is pointing downwards. Do not overtighten.