A water heater expansion tank, also called a thermal expansion tank, is a safety tool that helps reduce pressure from thermal expansion. It offers an overflow receptacle that collects water, which expands when heated. When it gets heated, water expands and gains volume. The water heater, pipes, and plumbing fixtures may be caused due to this volume increase, and lead to excessive pressure in the plumbing fixtures. A water heater expansion tank is installed to absorb excess water volume and variations in the pressure of the incoming water supply to prevent such damage. It serves as an overflow container and lessens the risk of thermal expansion damage. The risk of thermal expansion damage in an overflow container lessens.
The expansion tank is usually made from sturdy materials, like steel, that can tolerate high pressure. It has a rubber bladder or diaphragm keeps the water and air apart. The air or bladder is compressed when the water enters the expansion tank as it heats up and expands. The water from the expansion tank returns to the main water supply when the hot water is used and the temperature drops.
How a Water Heater Expansion Tank Is Installed?
Installing a water heater expansion tank can be beneficial even if your water system is not closed and your main water line has no one-way valve installed. Before the cold water line enters the water heater, expansion tanks are usually placed above the water heater.
When you hire a plumber, installing an expansion tank simultaneously with your water heater installation makes sense. This is due to the possibility that the additional expense won’t be very high if done concurrently. Installing an expansion tank while installing a water heater is recommended, even if unnecessary because the advantages outweigh the expense and effort.
What size water heater expansion tank do I need?
The capacity of your tank and the water pressure in your house are the two factors when determining the size of your water heater expansion tank. Your water heater’s capacity is printed on the outside of the tank, and a pressure gauge can be used to determine the water pressure in your house. It is noteworthy that an expansion tank that is excessively large for your system will not adversely affect its operation. It’s always best to size up if you’re unsure how big of an expansion tank you’ll need to prevent any possible problems.
There are the following sizes for your expansion tank are given below:
Water heater capacity up to 60 gallons
- Water pressure < 60 psi – 2-gallon expansion tank
- Water pressure 60 psi or greater – 3.2-gallon expansion tank
Water heater capacity > 60 gallons
- Water pressure < 50 psi – 2-gallon expansion tank
- Water pressure 50-60 psi – 3.2-gallon expansion tank
- Water pressure > 60 psi – 4.4-gallon expansion tank
Advantages of water heater expansion tanks
There are the following advantages of water heater expansion tanks.
- Water heater expansion required safety measures to prevent leaks caused by pressure buildup.
- To improve the water heater’s security, it is advised to install a second safety feature in addition to the pressure relief valve.
- Costly repairs may result from burst pipes or water damage. Take preventative action to save money.
- It is affordable to purchase and simple to install.
Disadvantages of water heater expansion tanks
There are the following disadvantages of water heater expansion tanks.
- In water heater expansion, many components are failures.
- Small installation errors can cause issues within the system
How Much Space is Needed For a Water Heater Expansion Tank?
When it gets hot, water expands and requires a place to go. This device creates an empty chamber for the expanded water to flow into and is attached to your water heater. It is easy to install and doesn’t take up much room. The expanded water flowing into an insulated pipe reaches the expansion tank. The tank needs to be big enough to hold the extra water.
You can make room for the expanding water by creating an empty chamber by adding an expansion tank to your water heater. The water expands as it moves toward the top of the water heater. It then passes through an insulated pipe and into the expansion tank. Although the expansion tank is typically not larger than a propane canister (used for outdoor barbecue grills), it must be big enough to hold the extra water.
The purpose of expansion tanks is to keep water heaters from overpressurizing inside. The insulation in these tanks aids in keeping the hot water at a consistent temperature. When the pressure drops, any water that has accumulated because of the pressure is automatically released back into the water heater. Most expansion tanks are mounted above the floor-mounted water heater, conserving floor space.
Is a Legally Required Hot Water Heater Expansion Tank?
Living in a house with a closed plumbing system could put you at greater risk of problems and damage. It determines which system you have to guarantee the best possible performance from your plumbing. If you’re unsure, you should get advice from a qualified plumber so they can advise you on the best course of action.
How Do I Get a Hot Water Heater Expansion Tank?
You are advised to contact a licensed plumber if your hot water system requires an expansion tank. A qualified plumbing specialist can examine your water heater and evaluate the water pressure levels in your house based on your unique needs if installing an expansion tank would be advantageous. To make sure you make the best choice for your needs, it’s imperative to have a professional assess your system.
How much does a hot water heater expansion tank cost?
The cost of water heater expansion is very affordable and the adjustment is necessary. Installing an expansion tank can cost anywhere from $100 to $400. If your home has high water pressure, prevent frequent repairs or a complete system failure, so advise installing an expansion tank. It is advised to install an expansion tank to avoid frequent repairs or a total system breakdown if you live in a house with high water pressure. Even though it may seem costly at first, it can save you a lot of money in the long run.