Have a gas water heater for 8 yrs and trouble free. There is some water leak through the pipe connected to the pressure relief valve, which I never observed before. How would I know if I need to replace the valve. I have read some responses (not to my questions) from other members indicating the need to have an expansion tank, etc. But why would I need that now, since there was no need for it in the past 8 years. Would you recommend just changing the valve to see if that would take care of the problem? Thank you for any help or advice. Joey G

Change the valve if the problem persists add the tank setup.