A water heater pressure relief valve (T&P valve) is one of the most important safety components on any tank. Choosing the right one prevents over-pressure, overheating, and the risk of tank rupture. In this 2024 review, we compare the 5 best pressure relief valves based on build quality, certifications, reliability, customer satisfaction, and overall value.
Quick Picks (Editor’s Choice)
| Rank | Model | Size | Pressure Rating | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 (Best Overall) | Watts 3/4″ T&P Relief Valve | 3/4″ | 150 PSI / 210°F | Most homeowners (universal fit) |
| #2 | Rheem SP12575 T&P Valve | 3/4″ | 150 PSI | Older Rheem tanks |
| #3 | Camco 10473 T&P Valve | 3/4″ | 150 PSI | Budget buyers |
| #4 | Reliance 9003028-045 Valve | 3/4″ | 150 PSI | High-efficiency gas heaters |
| #5 | Cash Acme 3/4″ Valve | 3/4″ | 150 PSI | Commercial-grade reliability |
Detailed Reviews
#1: Watts 3/4″ Temperature & Pressure Relief Valve — Best Overall (2024)
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.9/5 | Editor’s Choice
Specs:
Size: 3/4″ NPT
Pressure Rating: 150 PSI
Temperature Rating: 210°F
Material: Lead-free brass
Certifications: ASME, CSA
Warranty: 5 years
Best For: Residential gas & electric water heaters (30–100 gal)
Why It’s #1
The Watts 3/4″ T&P valve remains the industry standard for 2024. It’s the same brand used by professional plumbers, known for reliable sealing, consistent pressure response, and durable brass construction. Compared with competitor valves, Watts models show fewer nuisance openings and significantly lower failure rates.
Pros
✔ ASME & CSA certified
✔ Brass body for durability
✔ Smooth test operation (lever doesn’t stick)
✔ Fits almost all residential heaters
✔ Excellent reliability data
✔ 5-year warranty
Cons
✘ Slightly higher price than budget brands
✘ Occasionally out of stock (high demand)
Best For
Homeowners replacing an old relief valve
DIY users upgrading from cheap OEM valves
Anyone wanting maximum safety and longevity
Price
$XX.XX (typically $18–$28)
Where to Buy
Watts3/4″PressureReliefValve–PRODUCTLINKWatts 3/4″ Pressure Relief Valve
#2: Rheem SP12575 Temperature & Pressure Relief Valve
⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ 4.5/5 | Best for Rheem Water Heaters
Rheem’s OEM valve performs reliably and is the best choice if you want a like-for-like replacement for a Rheem tank.
Pros
✔ OEM replacement for Rheem heaters
✔ Consistent performance
✔ Smooth fit with discharge piping
Cons
✘ Pricier than universal valves
✘ Not ideal for non-Rheem heaters
✘ Shorter warranty period
Best For
Homeowners replacing a factory Rheem T&P valve.
Price
$22–$35
#3: Camco 10473 3/4″ Relief Valve — Best Budget Option
⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ 4.3/5 | Affordable & Reliable
Camco offers a budget-friendly T&P valve that provides basic performance at a lower cost.
Pros
✔ Very affordable
✔ Simple universal design
✔ Good customer ratings
Cons
✘ Lever action not as smooth
✘ Short 1-year warranty
✘ Higher mineral buildup over time
Best For
Budget-conscious homeowners needing a quick replacement.
Price
$12–$18
#4: Reliance 9003028-045 Relief Valve
⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ 4.4/5 | Best for High-Efficiency Gas Heaters
This valve handles high BTU water heaters better than most budget options and is built with reinforced internals.
Pros
✔ Great for high-BTU gas heaters
✔ Reliable seal
✔ Good value for mid-range price
Cons
✘ Harder to find in stores
✘ Less-known brand
Price
$18–$28
#5: Cash Acme 3/4″ T&P Valve
⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.2/5 | Commercial-Grade Quality
Cash Acme is widely used in commercial installations and offers robust engineering designed for heavy-duty usage.
Pros
✔ Strong commercial-grade build
✔ Good for older or high-demand systems
✔ Lower chance of failure under heavy use
Cons
✘ Overkill for most residential tanks
✘ Slightly larger profile
✘ Mid-high price
Price
$25–$40
Comparison Table: Watts vs Other Brands
| Feature | Watts | Rheem | Camco | Reliance | Cash Acme |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pressure Rating | 150 PSI | 150 PSI | 150 PSI | 150 PSI | 150 PSI |
| Temperature Rating | 210°F | 210°F | 210°F | 210°F | 210°F |
| Certification | ASME/CSA | CSA | CSA | CSA | ASME |
| Reliability | ★★★★★ | ★★★★☆ | ★★★☆☆ | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★☆ |
| Durability | ★★★★★ | ★★★★☆ | ★★★☆☆ | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★★ |
| Warranty | 5 years | 1–2 years | 1 year | 1 year | 1 year |
| Best For | Most users | Rheem tanks | Budget | High-BTU systems | Commercial |
Conclusion:
👉 Watts ranks #1 for overall reliability, warranty, and construction quality.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Water Heater Pressure Relief Valve
Choosing a T&P valve is easy once you know what matters.
1. Size (Most Use 3/4″)
Most residential water heaters use:
¾” NPT thread
Check your old valve or heater label.
2. Pressure & Temperature Ratings
Standard rating:
150 PSI
210°F
Do not install a lower-pressure valve.
3. Certifications
Look for:
✔ ASME
✔ CSA
Cheap valves often lack certifications → higher failure risk.
4. Build Quality
Brass valves last the longest. Avoid plastic-body valves.
5. Warranty
Longer warranties signal higher manufacturing quality.
Watts offers 5 years, while many others offer only 1.
6. Installation Compatibility
Check:
Space around the valve
Discharge pipe threading
BTU rating for gas heaters
Common Mistakes When Choosing a Relief Valve
❌ Choosing the wrong size (½” vs ¾”)
❌ Buying an unbranded, uncertified valve
❌ Installing incorrect pressure rating
❌ Forgetting to replace the discharge pipe
❌ Not addressing root causes like pressure or thermal expansion
FAQ
What is the best pressure relief valve for a water heater?
The Watts 3/4″ T&P Relief Valve is the best overall for 2024 due to build quality, reliability, and certifications.
Are Watts valves better than Rheem?
For universal application → Yes. Watts is more reliable long-term.
For Rheem OEM replacement → Rheem is fine.
How often should I replace a T&P valve?
Every 5 years or sooner if leaking or sticking.
Is a T&P valve universal?
Most 3/4″ valves are universal. Always check your heater’s label.
Final Recommendation
If you want the most reliable, longest-lasting, plumber-approved safety valve for your water heater:
Watts3/4″PressureReliefValve–PRODUCTLINKWatts 3/4″ Pressure Relief Valve
