Rheem Defective Round Poly Drain Valves Class Action Settlement, Claim Up To $1,500 Before March 20, 2026 Deadline
Rheem Manufacturing Company and Melet Plastics Inc. agreed to a class action settlement resolving allegations that round poly drain valves in certain water heaters were defective and prone to leaking. If you own or previously owned a Rheem water heater with a round poly drain valve manufactured between 2019 and 2023, you could claim up to $1,500 in reimbursement for documented losses—but only if you file by March 20, 2026.
The settlement received preliminary court approval on November 25, 2025, opening a crucial window for affected homeowners to seek compensation. Here’s what you need to know about eligibility, claim options, and how to protect your rights before time runs out.
What the Rheem Settlement Covers
The lawsuit alleged that Rheem and Melet Plastics manufactured defective round poly drain valves sold independently or as part of water heaters between 2019 and 2023, and that these valves were prone to leaking and other failures that could damage homes and structures.
The settlement addresses specific drain valve part numbers installed in Rheem water heaters across the United States. Plaintiffs claimed the plastic valve components cracked or degraded over time, leading to water leaks that damaged floors, walls, ceilings, and personal belongings. Instead of lasting the expected 10-15 year water heater lifespan, these valves allegedly failed within months or just a few years.
Defendants deny any wrongdoing, and no court has made any judgment that any law was violated. Rheem entered into this settlement to avoid prolonged litigation costs and uncertainty, not as an admission of liability.
Which Drain Valves Are Covered
Class products include round poly drain valves with part numbers AP12159A through AP12159K, AP14830A through AP14830G, AP16800A through AP16800G, AP16838A through AP16838G, and corresponding SP-prefix part numbers (SP12159A through SP12159K, SP14830A through SP14830G, SP16800A through SP16800G, SP16838A through SP16838G) manufactured and advertised between 2019 and 2023.
You can find your drain valve part number on the valve itself, typically located near the bottom of your water heater. The complete list of affected part numbers is available at www.RheemDrainValveSettlement.com.
Who Qualifies for the Settlement
You’re a settlement class member if you own or have owned Class Products or own or have owned homes or other structures physically located in the United States in which the Class Products are or were installed.
This broad definition means you qualify even if you’re not the original purchaser. Subsequent homeowners, landlords, and property managers who owned properties with affected Rheem water heaters can file claims.
Do You Need Proof of Damage?
You don’t need to have experienced drain valve failure to qualify for certain settlement benefits. All class members automatically receive a two-year warranty extension without filing any claim form. However, to receive monetary reimbursement up to $1,500, you must document your losses with receipts, invoices, or other proof.
Settlement Benefits: Your Three Options
The settlement provides reimbursement of up to $1,500 for documented losses and a two-year automatic parts-only warranty extension (without needing to submit a claim), OR a one-year elective parts-and-labor warranty extension, OR a replacement brass drain valve.
Option 1: Documented Loss Reimbursement (Up to $1,500)
Class members can receive reimbursement for installation, ownership, and other costs related to the defective drain valves, though payments may be reduced on a pro rata basis if total claims exceed $500,000.
You can claim reimbursement for drain valve replacement costs, water heater replacement if drain valve failure caused damage, property damage repair costs from water leaks, and plumber or contractor fees. You’ll need dated receipts, invoices, technician reports, or other documentation showing both the amount incurred and its connection to the covered drain valve.
If total valid claims exceed the $500,000 cap, all payments will be reduced proportionally. This means everyone receives the same percentage of their documented losses rather than some claimants getting full reimbursement while others get nothing.
Option 2: Extended Warranty Coverage
All class members automatically receive a two-year parts-only warranty extension without filing a claim. This warranty begins on the settlement’s effective date if your original parts warranty has expired.
Alternatively, you can elect to receive a one-year parts-and-labor warranty extension instead. This option is available to the first 100,000 class members who submit a claim. The one-year extension begins after any existing parts-and-labor warranty expires, or on the settlement effective date if no current warranty exists.
The parts-and-labor extension covers both the replacement valve and the cost of installation—a significant benefit since professional installation can cost $100-$300 depending on your location.
Option 3: Replacement Brass Drain Valve
The replacement brass drain valve is available to the first 20,000 class members who submit a claim. Each class member may receive only one replacement valve regardless of how many water heaters they own.
This option addresses the root problem by replacing the allegedly defective plastic valve with a more durable brass component. However, labor for installation is not included, meaning you’ll need to pay a plumber to install the replacement valve or do it yourself if you have the skills.
How to File Your Claim
You must submit a claim form by March 20, 2026. You can file online or by mail.
Online Filing
Visit www.RheemDrainValveSettlement.com and click “Submit Claim.” You’ll need your water heater serial number, contact information, and any documentation for documented loss reimbursement.
The online portal allows you to upload photos of receipts, invoices, and other supporting documents directly. This is the fastest method and provides immediate confirmation that your claim was received.
Mail Filing
Download the claim form from the settlement website, complete it, and mail it to: West v. Rheem Manufacturing Company, and Melet Plastics, Inc., c/o CPT Group, Inc., PO Box 19504, Irvine, CA 92623.
Claims submitted by mail must be postmarked by March 20, 2026. Include copies—never originals—of all supporting documentation.
What Documentation Do You Need?
For documented loss reimbursement, gather dated receipts showing drain valve replacement costs, water heater purchase receipts if you replaced the entire unit, invoices for property damage repairs, and plumber or contractor bills. The stronger your documentation, the better your chances of receiving full reimbursement up to the $1,500 limit.
For warranty extensions or replacement valves, you’ll typically need your water heater serial number. This number is usually found on a label affixed to the water heater tank.
Critical Deadlines You Cannot Miss
The deadline for exclusion and objection is February 20, 2026. The final approval hearing is scheduled for May 11, 2026.
February 20, 2026: Opt-Out and Objection Deadline
If you want to exclude yourself from the settlement and preserve your right to file an individual lawsuit against Rheem, you must submit a written request for exclusion by February 20, 2026. Once you opt out, you won’t receive any settlement benefits, but you can pursue your own legal claims.
If you disagree with the settlement terms but want to remain in the class, you can file an objection telling the court why you believe the settlement shouldn’t receive final approval. Your objection must be submitted by the same February 20, 2026 deadline.
March 20, 2026: Claim Filing Deadline
This is the absolute deadline to submit your claim for documented loss reimbursement, warranty extensions, or replacement valves. Claims submitted or postmarked after this date will be rejected with no exceptions.
May 11, 2026: Final Approval Hearing
The court will consider whether to grant final approval to the settlement. If approved, the settlement becomes binding on all class members who didn’t opt out. Payments will be distributed after this hearing and any appeals are resolved.
What Happens If You Do Nothing
If you do nothing, you will receive the two-year parts-only warranty extension but no payment, and you will give up your right to sue Defendants over the claims resolved in the settlement.
The automatic warranty extension applies to all class members regardless of whether they file a claim. However, you forfeit the opportunity to receive monetary compensation, elect the enhanced parts-and-labor warranty, or obtain a replacement brass valve.
You’ll also be bound by the settlement’s release, meaning you cannot file a separate lawsuit against Rheem for claims related to these drain valves.
Understanding Your Legal Rights
This settlement is part of the broader consumer protection framework that holds manufacturers accountable when products fail prematurely. Similar product defect class action lawsuits have resulted in substantial compensation for consumers who suffered losses from defective appliances.
Why Settlements Happen
Companies often choose to settle class action lawsuits rather than face the expense, uncertainty, and publicity of trial. Settlements allow both sides to resolve disputes efficiently. For consumers, settlements provide guaranteed compensation without waiting years for a trial verdict that might be appealed multiple times.
Rheem’s decision to settle this case doesn’t mean a court found the drain valves defective. It simply means both parties agreed this resolution serves everyone’s interests better than continued litigation.
Your Rights Under Consumer Protection Laws
When manufacturers sell products that fail prematurely, consumers have legal remedies under various state and federal laws. These include breach of warranty claims, consumer fraud statutes, and product liability theories.
Class actions aggregate individual claims that would be too small to pursue separately. Without class actions, most consumers wouldn’t bother suing over a failed drain valve that cost a few hundred dollars to fix, even though the manufacturer’s conduct affected hundreds of thousands of people.
How Settlement Payments Work
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.
Payment Processing Timeline
After the March 20, 2026 claim deadline, CPT Group (the settlement administrator) will review all submitted claims. They’ll verify that claimants meet eligibility requirements and that documentation supports the claimed losses.
If the court grants final approval at the May 11, 2026 hearing and no appeals are filed, payments will begin within 60-90 days. If appeals occur, payments may be delayed significantly.
How Much Will You Actually Receive?
Your actual payment depends on several factors. If you’re claiming documented losses and total valid claims stay below the $500,000 cap, you’ll receive full reimbursement up to $1,500 for your documented expenses.
If total claims exceed $500,000, all payments will be reduced proportionally. For example, if valid claims total $1 million, each claimant would receive approximately 50% of their documented losses (up to a maximum of $750 instead of $1,500).
Payment Methods
The settlement administrator will issue payments by check or electronic transfer depending on the information you provide on your claim form. Make sure your mailing address and contact information are current and accurate.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I File Multiple Claims If I Own Multiple Affected Water Heaters?
The settlement agreement limits each class member to one replacement brass drain valve regardless of how many water heaters they own. However, you can claim documented loss reimbursement for expenses related to multiple water heaters, up to the combined $1,500 maximum per person.
What If I Already Replaced My Water Heater?
You can still file a claim. If you replaced your water heater due to drain valve failure and have documentation showing the replacement cost, you’re eligible for documented loss reimbursement. Keep receipts showing the old water heater model number and the reason for replacement.
Do I Need a Lawyer to File a Claim?
No. The claim form is designed for consumers to complete without legal assistance. The settlement website provides detailed instructions, and the settlement administrator can answer questions at 1-888-271-1105 or [email protected].
What If I Don’t Have Receipts Anymore?
Without documentation, you cannot claim the documented loss reimbursement. However, you can still receive the automatic two-year parts-only warranty extension or elect the one-year parts-and-labor warranty extension (if available) or replacement brass valve. These options don’t require proof of past expenses.
Consider contacting plumbers or contractors who performed repairs—many maintain records and can provide duplicate invoices. Credit card statements showing payments to plumbers or hardware stores can also help establish that you incurred costs, though you’ll need additional documentation showing what the charges were for.
Is This Settlement Taxable Income?
Settlement payments for property damage and repair costs are typically not taxable income under federal tax law. However, tax treatment depends on individual circumstances. Consult a tax professional if you receive a substantial payment.
Can I Still Use My Rheem Water Heater?
Yes. The settlement doesn’t require you to stop using your water heater. The automatic warranty extension provides added protection if future problems occur. If you’re concerned about potential leaks, consider having a plumber inspect your drain valve or requesting a replacement brass valve through the settlement.
What If the Settlement Isn’t Approved?
If the court denies final approval, the settlement won’t take effect. Class members would receive no benefits, and the litigation would continue. This is why objections and opt-out requests matter—they give class members voice in whether the settlement is fair.
Get Help and More Information
For more information, and to view the Long Form Notice, Claim Form, a copy of the Settlement Agreement with a list of affected Class Products, and other case-related documents, go to www.RheemDrainValveSettlement.com.
Contact the Settlement Administrator
Toll-free: 1-888-271-1105
Email: [email protected]
Mail: West v. Rheem Manufacturing Company, and Melet Plastics, Inc., c/o CPT Group, Inc., PO Box 19504, Irvine, CA 92623
The settlement administrator can answer questions about eligibility, claim status, and settlement benefits. They cannot provide legal advice about whether you should accept the settlement or opt out.
Official Case Information
Case name: West v. Rheem Manufacturing Company, and Melet Plastics, Inc.
Case number: 2:24-cv-09686-CAS-MAAx
Court: United States District Court, Central District of California
Do not contact the court directly with questions about the settlement. All inquiries should go to the settlement administrator.
Take Action Before Time Runs Out
The March 20, 2026 claim deadline is firm. Courts rarely grant extensions, even for compelling reasons. If you qualify for this settlement, gathering documentation and filing your claim now protects your rights.
Even if you haven’t experienced drain valve failure yet, consider filing a claim to secure warranty extensions or a replacement brass valve. These preventive measures could save you from future property damage and repair costs.
Similar class action settlements involving consumer products regularly provide compensation to eligible claimants, but only those who submit timely claims receive benefits.
Last Updated: January 20, 2026
Disclaimer: This article provides informational content about the Rheem defective round poly drain valves class action settlement and should not be considered legal advice.
Call to Action: Have you been affected by a defective Rheem drain valve? Share your experience in the comments below and help other homeowners understand what to expect.
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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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