Rheem Water Heater Defective Drain Valve Class Action Settlement, Claim Up to $1,500 Available for Owners
Rheem Manufacturing Company and Melet Plastics Inc. agreed to a class action settlement to resolve claims that certain water heaters had defective round poly drain valves that leaked or failed prematurely, and affected water heater owners may be eligible for compensation by filing a claim before March 20, 2026. The settlement covers water heaters manufactured between 2019 and 2023 with specific drain valve part numbers, with homeowners eligible to receive reimbursement up to $1,500 for documented losses, warranty extensions, or replacement brass drain valves.
Over 600,000 Rheem water heaters potentially contain these defective drain valves according to class estimates, with plaintiffs claiming the plastic valve components cracked or degraded prematurely, causing water damage to floors, walls, and personal property—forcing homeowners to pay hundreds or thousands in repair costs.
This Affects You If You Own a Rheem Water Heater
If you own or previously owned a Rheem water heater with a round poly drain valve manufactured between 2019 and 2023, understanding this settlement matters because you could be entitled to reimbursement for past repair costs, property damage, or receive a free replacement drain valve to prevent future problems. Even if you never filed a claim with Rheem, you may still qualify for settlement benefits.
What the Rheem Water Heater Drain Valve Lawsuit Alleged
What Drain Valve Defect Caused the Problems
The class action complaint alleged Rheem water heaters contained defective plastic drain valves that failed long before the expected 10-15 year water heater lifespan. The specific defects claimed included plastic drain valve components that cracked or degraded over time, drain valves that leaked water causing property damage to floors, walls, ceilings, and personal belongings, valves that failed within months or just a few years instead of lasting the water heater’s expected lifetime, and inadequate quality control in the manufacturing process.
Plaintiffs presented evidence showing consumer complaints about drain valve failures, photos and documentation of leaking drain valves and resulting water damage, expert testimony about manufacturing or design defects in the valve assembly, repair invoices showing replacement costs ranging from $200 to over $1,500 for water heater replacement when drain valve failure caused additional damage, and testimony from plumbers about widespread drain valve failures in Rheem water heaters with specific part numbers.
What Rheem Allegedly Did Wrong
The lawsuit claimed Rheem manufactured and sold water heaters with defective drain valves that failed prematurely, used inadequate materials or design for drain valve components prone to cracking and leaking, failed to properly test drain valves before releasing products to market, knew or should have known about the drain valve defect based on consumer complaints, failed to recall defective water heaters or offer adequate remedy to affected owners, failed to honor warranty claims for drain valve failures, and continued selling water heaters with defective drain valves after becoming aware of the problem.
Under consumer protection and warranty laws, manufacturers owe specific duties to consumers. The implied warranty of merchantability requires products to be fit for ordinary use—a water heater drain valve must function properly without leaking. The Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act requires clear disclosure of warranty terms and manufacturers must honor warranty claims for covered defects. State consumer protection laws prohibit deceptive or unfair business practices and require manufacturers to disclose known product defects. Product liability standards hold manufacturers liable for design defects that make products unreasonably dangerous and manufacturing defects that cause products to deviate from intended design.
How the Lawsuit Was Filed and Resolved
Named plaintiff Vanessa West, who owned a Rheem water heater with a failed drain valve, filed the class action lawsuit in the United States District Court for the Central District of California (Case No. 2:24-cv-09686-CAS-MAAx) in 2024. Law firms Cole & Van Note and The Armstrong Firm represent the class.
The legal theories included breach of implied warranty of merchantability (selling products unfit for ordinary use), breach of express warranty (failing to honor written warranty terms), violation of the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act (federal warranty law), violation of state consumer protection laws, and product liability claims for defective design or manufacturing.
Rheem denied the drain valves were defective and argued failures resulted from improper maintenance or water quality issues. However, Rheem agreed to settle to avoid litigation costs and uncertainty. The court granted preliminary approval in late 2025, with a final approval hearing scheduled for May 11, 2026. Importantly, Rheem settled without admitting liability or that drain valves were defective.
What the Settlement Provides
Compensation for Affected Water Heater Owners
The settlement fund includes up to $500,000 for documented loss reimbursement, with individual class members eligible to claim up to $1,500 for documented expenses. This covers drain valve replacement costs typically $50-$200 for replacement valve and installation, water heater replacement if drain valve failure caused other damage—up to $500-$1,500 depending on water heater age and extent of damage, property damage repair costs from water leaks—documented expenses for repairing water damage to floors, walls, ceilings, and personal property, and plumber or contractor fees related to the defective drain valve.
If valid claims exceed the $500,000 cap, payments will be reduced proportionally so all claimants receive a percentage of their documented losses.
Warranty Extensions and Replacement Drain Valves
All class members automatically receive a two-year automatic parts-only warranty extension without filing a claim. This covers parts only (not labor) for the drain valve, and if the original parts warranty expired, the new two-year warranty begins on the settlement effective date.
Class members can choose instead to claim a one-year elective parts-and-labor warranty extension covering both parts and labor for drain valve repair or replacement. This option is limited to the first 100,000 valid claims. After existing parts-and-labor warranty expires, or on settlement effective date if no current parts-and-labor warranty exists.
Alternatively, class members can request a replacement brass drain valve to replace the defective plastic drain valve. This option is limited to the first 20,000 valid claims, and each class member may receive one replacement brass drain valve regardless of number of water heaters owned. Labor for installation is not included.
Changes to Rheem’s Manufacturing Practices
While Rheem denies wrongdoing, the settlement requires improved drain valve design or manufacturing process to address the alleged defects, enhanced quality control measures, and improved consumer notification about proper drain valve maintenance.
Who Is Eligible and How to File a Claim
Class Definition and Affected Models
You’re a class member if you own or previously owned a Rheem water heater with a round poly drain valve with specific part numbers manufactured between 2019 and 2023, including anyone who experienced drain valve leaking or failure, anyone who paid for drain valve repairs or replacement, anyone who suffered property damage from leaking drain valves, and both original purchasers and subsequent owners.
The eligible drain valve part numbers include AP12159A through AP12159K, AP14830A through AP14830G, AP16800A through AP16800G, AP16838A through AP16838G, SP12159A through SP12159K, SP14830A through SP14830G, SP16800A through SP16800G, and SP16838A through SP16838G. The complete list is available at www.RheemDrainValveSettlement.com.
How to File a Claim
Visit the settlement website at www.RheemDrainValveSettlement.com and use the model checker tool to verify your water heater’s eligibility by entering your model and serial number (found on the label affixed to your water heater tank).
Complete the claim form online or download and mail the paper form. You’ll need your Rheem water heater serial number, contact information, and documentation depending on claim type.
For documented loss reimbursement, submit dated receipts showing drain valve replacement cost, plumber invoices for installation or repair work, photos of the failed drain valve and any water damage, receipts for new water heater if replacement was necessary due to drain valve failure, repair estimates or invoices for property damage, and insurance claims documentation if applicable.
For warranty extension or replacement brass drain valve, simply complete the claim form selecting your preferred option—no receipts required.
Mail completed forms to: West v. Rheem Manufacturing Company and Melet Plastics Inc., c/o CPT Group Inc., PO Box 19504, Irvine, CA 92623.
Critical Deadline: Claims must be submitted or postmarked by March 20, 2026.
The settlement administrator will review claims for validity and supporting documentation. Payments will be distributed after final court approval and any appeals are resolved, typically 6-12 months after the claim deadline. Estimated payment amounts depend on claim type and documentation provided.
What You Must Know About Your Rights
Understanding How This Settlement Compares
Typical appliance defect class action settlements range from hundreds of thousands to tens of millions depending on the number of affected units and severity of defects. The Rheem settlement’s $500,000 documented loss reimbursement fund, combined with warranty extensions and replacement drain valves for potentially 600,000 affected water heaters, represents a per-unit value of approximately $50-$200 for most claimants.
Recent comparable settlements in 2025 include other appliance defect cases involving water heaters, HVAC systems, and major appliances. Factors affecting settlement size include the number of affected products sold, severity of defect and safety risks, extent of property damage, evidence of manufacturer knowledge of defect, and strength of warranty and consumer protection claims.
The significance of non-monetary relief shouldn’t be overlooked—design or manufacturing changes prevent future drain valve failures, replacement valves or extended warranty protect current owners, and compliance monitoring ensures ongoing quality improvements.
Your Rights and Options Under the Settlement
Accepting the settlement: File a claim for documented loss reimbursement to receive up to $1,500 for repair costs and property damage. Request a one-year parts-and-labor warranty extension or replacement brass drain valve if you still own an affected water heater. Remain a class member and receive the automatic two-year parts-only warranty extension. You cannot sue individually for the same defect—this is the simplest option for most water heater owners.
Objecting to the settlement: You can object if you think the settlement amount is inadequate or terms are unfair. File a written objection with the court by February 20, 2026, and attend the final approval hearing to voice concerns. You’re still bound by the settlement if the court approves despite objections unless you opt out.
Opting out: Excludes you from the settlement class and preserves your right to sue Rheem individually for drain valve defect. Send a written opt-out request postmarked by February 20, 2026. You receive nothing from the settlement if you opt out. This only makes sense if you have significant individual damages exceeding $10,000 worth pursuing separately with your own attorney.
Doing nothing: If you don’t file a claim, you automatically receive the two-year parts-only warranty extension but no monetary compensation. You’re still bound by the settlement and release claims against Rheem. This is the worst option—you give up rights without receiving full compensation.
What to Do Next
If You Own an Affected Rheem Water Heater
Locate your water heater model and serial number on the label affixed to the tank (usually on the front or side of the unit). Visit www.RheemDrainValveSettlement.com immediately to check if your model is included in the class using the online verification tool.
Gather documentation of any drain valve problems: photos of leaking valve, water damage, or failed components, receipts for drain valve repairs or replacements including plumber invoices and installation fees, receipts for water heater replacement if drain valve failure caused other damage, documentation of property damage including photos of water damage to floors, walls, ceilings, or personal property, repair estimates or invoices, contractor bills, and insurance claims if applicable.
Decide which settlement benefit to claim based on your situation and expenses. File your claim before the March 20, 2026 deadline even if you don’t have all receipts—partial documentation may still qualify you for some reimbursement. Request a free replacement brass drain valve if you still own an affected water heater and it hasn’t failed yet to prevent future problems.
Pro Tip: Don’t wait until the last minute to file your claim. If you’re claiming a one-year parts-and-labor warranty extension (limited to first 100,000 claims) or replacement brass drain valve (limited to first 20,000 claims), filing early ensures you receive these limited benefits before they run out.
Preventing Future Water Heater Problems
Inspect your water heater drain valve regularly for signs of leaking, cracking, or degradation. Install a water heater drain pan underneath your water heater to catch leaks and prevent property damage. Consider installing a water leak detector or automatic shutoff valve for added protection.
Flush your water heater annually to remove sediment and extend its lifespan. Follow all manufacturer maintenance recommendations. If you have an affected Rheem water heater, request the free replacement brass drain valve through the settlement. If you’re purchasing a new water heater, research product reviews and defect history before buying.
Register your water heater with the manufacturer to receive recall or safety notices. Know the location of your home’s main water shutoff valve in case of emergency. Maintain adequate homeowners insurance coverage for water damage.
Where to Find Reliable Information
Settlement website: www.RheemDrainValveSettlement.com provides claim forms, model checker tool, FAQs, important dates, court documents including settlement agreement and preliminary approval order, and settlement administrator contact information.
Settlement administrator: Contact CPT Group at 1-888-271-1105 or [email protected] for questions about eligibility, claim status, or settlement benefits.
Legal resources: DR Horton Class Action Lawsuit Construction Defects and Toyota UA80 Transmission Lawsuit provide context for similar product defect cases.
Consumer protection resources: Consumer Product Safety Commission (www.cpsc.gov) for product defect reporting and safety information, Federal Trade Commission for consumer protection guidance, and state attorney general consumer protection divisions.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much money will I get from the Rheem water heater settlement?
Payment amounts depend on your claim type and documentation. Documented loss reimbursement provides up to $1,500 for repair costs, water heater replacement, and property damage with receipts. If total valid claims exceed $500,000, payments will be reduced proportionally.
When is the deadline to file a Rheem water heater claim?
Claims must be submitted or postmarked by March 20, 2026. The opt-out deadline is February 20, 2026. The final approval hearing is scheduled for May 11, 2026.
Which Rheem water heater models have defective drain valves?
Water heaters with round poly drain valves bearing part numbers AP12159A through AP12159K, AP14830A through AP14830G, AP16800A through AP16800G, AP16838A through AP16838G, and corresponding SP-prefix part numbers manufactured between 2019 and 2023 are included. Check the complete list at www.RheemDrainValveSettlement.com.
Am I eligible for the Rheem settlement?
You’re eligible if you own or previously owned a Rheem water heater with an affected drain valve, own or owned property where one was installed, experienced drain valve leaking or failure, or paid for repairs related to the defective drain valve.
Did Rheem admit the drain valves were defective?
No. Rheem settled without admitting liability or that drain valves were defective. Rheem denies all allegations but agreed to settle to avoid litigation costs and uncertainty.
What changes is Rheem making to fix the drain valve problem?
The settlement requires Rheem to implement improved drain valve design or manufacturing processes, enhanced quality control measures, and improved consumer notifications about proper drain valve maintenance, though Rheem denies the valves were defective.
How do I file a claim for the Rheem water heater settlement?
Visit www.RheemDrainValveSettlement.com to file online or download a claim form to mail. You’ll need your water heater serial number and documentation of losses if claiming reimbursement.
Last Updated: January 14, 2026 — We keep this current with the latest legal developments.
Important Disclaimer: This article provides informational content about the Rheem water heater drain valve class action settlement based on publicly available court documents and settlement information. This is not legal advice, and AllAboutLawyer.com does not provide legal services or representation. Information may change as the settlement proceeds through court approval. For specific questions about your eligibility or legal rights under this settlement, consult a qualified attorney or contact the settlement administrator directly.
Take Action: Visit the official settlement website at www.RheemDrainValveSettlement.com to verify your eligibility and file your claim before the March 20, 2026 deadline.
Stay informed, stay protected. — AllAboutLawyer.com
About the Author
Sarah Klein, JD, is a licensed attorney and legal content strategist with over 12 years of experience across civil, criminal, family, and regulatory law. At All About Lawyer, she covers a wide range of legal topics — from high-profile lawsuits and courtroom stories to state traffic laws and everyday legal questions — all with a focus on accuracy, clarity, and public understanding.
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