hot water heater problems?

[rh71]

I never noticed so much water leaking out of the hot water heater or the oil burner itself. During the cold days, whenever it "breaks down", there'd be a puddle of water near it, so I'd know something is awry with the burner (usually). The other day I noticed a pipe on the hot water heater just spilling water out. Never seen this happen before - never even noticed this extra pipe before.

It is this pipe that leads out from the T&P valve: pic. In the description, it says:

For safety, all water heaters are equipped with a T&P valve (temperature-and-pressure relief valve). This valve opens if either the temperature or pressure of the water exceeds a safe limit. The valve is connected to a pipe that runs down the outside of the tank, ending about 6 in. from the floor. It's a good idea to keep a bucket under the end of the pipe to catch water if the valve opens. The T&P valve should not be connected to a drain. If the valve did open, a sign that a problem exists, you might never know that it had opened.

Ok so it seems something's overheating? Is this a problem that should even be looked at or a fairly common occurence? We're still getting hot water fine and the thing is running regular cycles but my floor is wet more often than not last few days (and it's been warm around 45F anyway).

update:

so apparently my extrol tank is full, or at least reached the end of its 5-yr life (it's been 11yrs). It resides above the hot water tank mounted to the pipes.

http://www.radiantheatproducts...?m=product_detail&p=50

They're quoting me $209... but the part is obviously cheaper... how difficult is this replacement job?

 

[SampSon]

Check the temperature settings on the water heater, they are probably set WAY too high.
Couple that with the possibility of it being located in an area with minimal ventilation, and you will get overflow.

 

[nickbits]

More than likely the T&P valve is bad rather than overheating. They can be replaced fairly easily I believe. How old is the heater?

 

[rh71]

It's probably over 15 years old... I guess I'll call the oil company in the morning - I got forced into the platinum plan this year - may as well use it.

 

[rh71]

see update

 

[rh71]

^

 

[DrPizza]

Replacement job? Piece of cake - very simple. Are you positive it can't just be recharged? (I haven't had a ton of experience with thermal expansion tanks.) Also, you'll still probably end up needing to replace that valve. That's also a very simple task.

 

[MrPickins]

I could be completely wrong about this, but I seem to remember that the T&P valve should be replaced if it is ever triggered.