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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 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.
How far can an expansion tank be from the 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.
Where does the expansion tank go on a boiler?
Usually the expansion tank is mounted on the hot or supply side of the boiler and usually it’s located before any circulator pumps. If you see a tank that looks like the unit below, your boiler has an internal-bladder type hydronic heating boiler expansion tank.
Why does expansion tank go on cold side?
One expansion tank manufacturer states: “We recommend the cold water side installation because the tank is not insulated. When the expanded volume enters the tank, it will cool down. With the tank on the cold water side, this expanded volume will pass through the water heater before going out to the faucets.”Feb 28, 2010.
Can an expansion tank be installed on the return line?
Your expansion tank can be anywhere on your plumbing system and does not need to be installed in close proximity to the water heater. It is most commonly installed using a “T” at the cold inlet to the water heater. But, functionally, it can be installed anywhere on the cold inlet line.
Should expansion tank have water in it?
That’s where the expansion tank comes in. Properly installed, it absorbs this excess pressure. Half of the tank is filled with water from the main water system of your home. As the water in your water heater gets hotter and expands, it pushes against that bladder and further compresses the air on the other side.
Can expansion tank be installed outside?
An expansion tank, such as the one shown above, helps to absorb water pressure that results from thermal expansion. The tank can be installed anywhere in the cold-water line between the house’s main valve and water heater, or on the hot-water line within 3 ft. to 5 ft.
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.
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.
Why must the expansion tank always be located higher than the boiler?
protect the boiler from excessive water temperatures. Why must the expansion tank always be located higher than the boiler? To allow air to be pushed up into the expansion tank when adding water into the boiler. The pressure relief valve _____.
How do I know if my expansion tank is working?
The tank should be full of air and therefore sound hollow. If it makes a dull thud rather than a hollow sound, your tank is full of water and needs repair or replacement. You can also gauge this by feeling the tank, which will be cool where it’s holding air and warm where it’s holding water.
Can an 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.
What happens if expansion tank is full?
Pre-charge pressure that’s too low may be indicated when the tank is full of water. Low pressure can cause too much water from entering the tank. It could also indicate that the diaphragm is no longer functional, which means that there is nothing to prevent the water from entering.
Why does my expansion tank have hot water in it?
Over time, this coil can become perforated, meaning there’s hole in the coil which allows water for the central heating into the domestic hot water being stored in the cylinder. This rise in water levels can then lead to the feed and expansion tank overflowing.
What size expansion tank do I 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.
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.
