Table of Contents
How should an expansion tank be installed?
An expansion tank is generally installed directly above the water heater by means of a tee-fitting installed in the cold water delivery pipe. The expansion tank is usually installed vertically, though it is acceptable to install it horizontally if it is necessary because of space limitations.
Does expansion tank go on hot or cold line?
Although expansion tanks can be installed on the hot side, we strongly recommend they be installed on the cold line, downstream of the shutoff valve.
How do you install an expansion tank on a gas water heater?
How to Install Water Heater Expansion Tank Step 1: Disconnect the Water and Power Supply. Step 2: Bring Out Expansion Tank and Accessories. Step 3: Confirm the Water Supply Line for Cold Water. Step 4: Install the Expansion Tank. Step 5: Attach the Heater Tank. Step 6: Restore the Water and Power Supply to the Heater.
Where should the expansion tank be installed on a boiler?
The expansion tank needs to be installed on the suction side of the hot-water circulator, on the bottom of the supply line. The boiler system is then re-pressurized and should be checked for any leaks. If leaks are found in the system, they need to be repaired to prevent any pressure drops.
Do I need a thermal expansion tank?
An expansion tank is always highly recommended if you have a ‘closed-loop system’ caused by any kind of check valve or pressure regulating valve installed on your house’s water supply line. However, the long-term wear and tear of this excess pressure can reduce the life expectancy of everything in your plumbing system.
How big of a thermal expansion tank do I need?
As a general rule, the bigger the water heater, the bigger the expansion tank. For a 50-gallon water heater, you require a 2-gallon expansion tank. Depending on how high your water pressure is, however, you may need to go up a size to a 4.5-gallon expansion tank.
Is it code to have an expansion tank on water heater?
The California Plumbing Code (Section 608.3) and the California Mechanical Code (Section 1005.0) requires a thermal expansion tank, or listed equivalent, to be installed to water heating systems to relieve excessive building pressure during the heating process.
What pressure should my expansion tank be set at?
The recommended water pressure is between 50 and 60 PSI. Thermal Expansion Tanks contain an air bladder which is pressurized with air, and expands and contracts to absorb the expanded water from the water heater. needed. Check the air pressure in the Expansion Tank using a tire gauge.
Can a thermal expansion tank be installed horizontally?
Can a water heater thermal expansion tank be installed sideways/horizontally? Most expansion tanks are designed to be installed vertically (stem up or stem down). You can install one sideways, but it will shorten the lifespan unless it is designed and specified by the manufacturer for horizontal installation.
How does a thermal expansion tank work?
Expansion tanks work by equalizing pressure throughout the system. As hot water enters the heating system, the pressure in the system increases. As pressure increases, the diaphragm in the expansion tank is pushed down. This compresses the air in the tank, creating more space for excess water to enter.
What is a thermal expansion tank?
A thermal expansion tank is a small tank that is installed on the inlet line going into your water heater. Inside the tank is compressed air and a bladder. The compressed air is pressurized to match your home’s water pressure.
How much does it cost to install an expansion tank on a water heater?
$145 – $350, Installed The cost to install a water heater expansion tank ranges from $55 and up for the rare DIY project, to about $350 when a pro adds an expansion tank to a large residential water heater.
Does expansion tank go on supply or return?
The expansion tank is installed on the supply-side of the boiler system. Its sealed-in air pre-charge prevents water from entering the tank until the system pressure begins to rise.
Why does my expansion tank keep failing?
The most common expansion tank problem in a diaphragm tank is losing small amounts of air through the valve. When this occurs, more air needs to be added to the tank. If the tank does not hold its air pressure after you complete this fix or it fills with excess water, you may need to replace the diaphragm.
How far can expansion tank be from water heater?
The items which should be installed in sequence in the cold water line are (1) the EXPANSION TANK must be installed at least 18 inches away from the cold water inlet fitting on the water heater, (2) the PRESSURE GAUGE, and (3) the PRESSURE REDUCING VALVE, if required, see Figure 1.
What can I use instead of a expansion tank?
The Thermal Expansion Relief Valve can replace a water heater expansion tank because it functions similarly. Both products absorb the excess pressure in the plumbing system created by thermal expansion.
How long do thermal expansion tanks last?
The average life of your tank can be anywhere between five and 10 years. You can extend the life of your expansion tank by making sure that your home’s water pressure matches the air pressure in your expansion tank. But in some cases, you’ll need to replace it.
What size expansion tank do you need for a 40 gallon water heater?
General Guidelines for Sizing an Expansion Tank Water Heater Capacity Supply Pressure (psi) Expansion Tank Size 40 to 60-gallon 40-50 psi 2-gallon 40 to 60-gallon 60-80 psi 3.2-gallon 80-gallon 40 psi 2-gallon 80-gallon 50-60 psi 3.2-gallon.
