Water Heater Repair in Rex, GA

Why does my relief valve drip after the heater runs?

In Rex the answer is often the water connection itself. Clayton County Water Authority supplies water and sewer, and it installs a backflow device at every customer connection, testing each one yearly with its own certified staff. That device keeps water from flowing back into the main, which also means water that expands as the tank heats has nowhere to go. Without a thermal expansion tank, pressure climbs until the temperature and pressure relief valve opens. A plumber can measure the pressure, confirm whether the valve is worn or just doing its job, and add or recharge an expansion tank if needed.

Rex isn't a city. Who issues the permit?

Rex is centered on the historic Rex Mill and Rex Village in eastern Clayton County. It was incorporated as a town in 1912 but its charter was repealed in 1922, so today it is an unincorporated community. Clayton County Community Development issues building, mechanical, electrical and plumbing permits for remodels and repairs, from its office in Jonesboro. A full heater replacement generally needs one.

How old is my heater likely to be?

Census estimates put Rex's median build year at 1995, with about 20% of homes built before 1980. Many heaters are second units in 1990s homes, or originals in newer ones that are reaching the end of typical tank life. A single failed part is worth repairing on a younger tank; rust or a leak from the body on an older one means replacement. An expansion tank added during a repair also helps a younger heater last, since repeated pressure spikes wear on the tank and its fittings.

Local note

Clayton County homes are on the Atlanta Gas Light system. If you smell gas near the heater, leave first, then call 911 and Atlanta Gas Light at 877.427.4321 from outside. CCWA owns the service line to the meter; from the meter to the house is the owner's. For a large leak or a water emergency on the authority's side, CCWA's line is 770-960-5200. When you call about the heater, mention whether you see a small expansion tank on the cold pipe near it.