Installing a water heater expansion tank is an important step in maintaining your home’s water system. An expansion tank provides a place for excess water to go when the water heater heats up, preventing pressure from building up and potentially damaging the water heater or other components of the system. Installing an expansion tank is a relatively simple task that can be completed in a few hours, and it can save you a lot of money in the long run.
Before you begin, you’ll need to gather a few materials. You’ll need a water heater expansion tank, a pipe wrench, a pair of pliers, a screwdriver, and some Teflon tape. You’ll also need to drain some water from your water heater before you can install the expansion tank. Once you have all of your materials, you can follow these steps to install the expansion tank:
Installing the Tank: Step-by-Step
1. Determine the Location
Choose a spot near the water heater that provides easy access for maintenance. The tank should be mounted vertically and at least 6 inches above the floor.
2. Install the Tank Bracket
Mount the bracket onto the wall using screws or bolts. The bracket should be level and support the weight of the tank.
3. Connect the Cold Water Supply
Attach a flexible hose from the cold water supply to the inlet valve on the tank. Tighten the connection using a wrench or pliers.
4. Connect the Water Heater
Connect the outlet valve on the tank to the cold water inlet on the water heater. Use a second flexible hose for this connection.
5. Installation Pre-Charge and Operational Pressure
|
Pre-charge Pressure (PSI) |
Operational Pressure (PSI) |
|
|---|---|---|
|
40-gallon water heater |
22-28 |
40-60 |
|
50-gallon water heater |
25-30 |
45-65 |
|
60-gallon water heater |
28-33 |
50-70 |
* Check the pre-charge pressure of the tank using a tire pressure gauge.
* Adjust the pre-charge pressure to the recommended value using a bike pump or air compressor.
* Connect a pressure relief valve to the outlet of the tank and set the relief valve to the operational pressure.
6. Test the System
Turn on the water supply and check for leaks. The tank should fill slowly and without any noise.
If leaks occur, tighten the connections or call a plumber.
How To Install Water Heater Expansion Tank
An expansion tank is an important safety device for any water heater. It helps to prevent the tank from rupturing if the water pressure gets too high. If you’re not sure how to install an expansion tank, it’s best to call a plumber. However, if you’re handy and have some basic plumbing skills, you can follow these steps to do it yourself.
Materials you’ll need:
- Expansion tank
- Pipe wrench
- Teflon tape
- Nipple
- Flex connector
- Pressure relief valve
Step 1: Turn off the water supply to the water heater.
Step 2: Drain the water heater.
Step 3: Remove the old expansion tank (if there is one).
Step 4: Wrap the threads of the nipple with Teflon tape.
Step 5: Screw the nipple into the water heater.
Step 6: Attach the flex connector to the nipple.
Step 7: Screw the expansion tank onto the flex connector.
Step 8: Turn on the water supply to the water heater.
Step 9: Open a hot water faucet and let the water run until the air is out of the system.
Step 10: Check for leaks.
People Also Ask About How To Install Water Heater Expansion Tank
Why do I need an expansion tank?
An expansion tank is an important safety device that helps to prevent the water heater from rupturing if the water pressure gets too high.
How often should I check my expansion tank?
You should check your expansion tank at least once a year to make sure it’s working properly.
What size expansion tank do I need?
The size of the expansion tank you need will depend on the size of your water heater.
How do I know if my expansion tank is working properly?
You can check if your expansion tank is working properly by pressing on the diaphragm. If the diaphragm is firm, the tank is working properly. If the diaphragm is spongy, the tank needs to be replaced.
Can I install an expansion tank myself?
If you’re handy and have some basic plumbing skills, you can install an expansion tank yourself. However, if you’re not sure how to do it, it’s best to call a plumber.
