A water heater expansion tank is an important component of any closed plumbing system that uses a water heater. The expansion tank helps maintain proper water pressure by absorbing excess thermal expansion that occurs when water is heated inside the water heater. Having a properly sized and installed expansion tank is critical to the safety and longevity of a water heating system. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the basics of water heater expansion tanks, including how they work, why they are needed, the key components, types of tanks, installation, sizing calculations, maintenance tips, and signs of problems.

How Do Water Heater Expansion Tanks Work?

Water expands when heated, a phenomenon known as thermal expansion. In an open plumbing system, expanding water simply flows back into the water main as pressure increases. However, most residential plumbing systems today are closed systems, meaning the water inside has nowhere to expand. The water pressure builds up dangerously inside the water heater and pipes. This can lead to leaks, damage, and even explosions.

Expansion tanks counteract this by providing space for the expanded water volume. The tank contains a rubber bladder inside that compresses as water flows into the tank, maintaining safe pressure levels in the plumbing system. The compressed air pocket absorbs the pressure, while the expanded water is accommodated in the tank.

Why Are Expansion Tanks Necessary?

There are several important reasons why every water heating system needs a properly installed expansion tank:

• Prevents leaks and damage: By controlling thermal expansion, the tank prevents pressure spikes that can damage pipes, joints, the water heater, and plumbing fixtures.
• Improves safety: Excess pressure buildup can lead to explosions and release of scalding hot water or steam. The expansion tank is a safety device that reduces this risk.
• Extends system lifespan: Regular pressure fluctuations wear out plumbing components quicker. The expansion tank minimizes this to increase longevity.
• Maintains water pressure: It keeps water pressure stable and within a safe range throughout the plumbing system.
• Reduces energy bills: Stable pressure allows the water heater to operate more efficiently by reducing standby heat loss.
• Required by code: Most current plumbing codes require a properly pressurized and sized expansion tank.

Key Components of an Expansion Tank

There are two main components that make up a water heater expansion tank:

1. Outer Metal Tank

The outer shell is a metal tank made from steel, copper, or stainless steel. It is designed to withstand the high water pressures. The size of the tank varies based on the water heater’s BTU/gallon capacity and first hour delivery rating.

2. Internal Flexible Bladder

Inside the outer metal tank is an expandable rubber or composite bladder. The bladder is initially filled with air at the correct pre-charge pressure. As water expands, it compresses the bladder to absorb pressure increases. The compressed air pocket cushions the pressure fluctuation.

The flexible bladder is a replaceable part that can wear out over time. Some tanks may have an air valve to allow adding more air to re-inflate a worn bladder.

Types of Expansion Tanks

There are two main types of expansion tanks used in residential water heater installations:

1. Basic Diaphragm/Bladder Tanks

The most common type, these have an internal bladder and externally attached air pre-charge valve. They maintain system pressure between preset maximum and minimum pressures, typically around 50 psi. Available in sizes from 2 to 80 gallons.

2. Captive Air Tanks

These have an internal liner separating air and water inside the tank. There is no bladder. Sizes range from 4 to 20 gallons. They provide less accurate pressure control compared to basic diaphragm tanks.

Make sure to select the right type of expansion tank suitable for a water heating application. Some special considerations may apply for solar water heating, high temperature systems, hydronic heating, etc.

Where and How To Install a Water Heater Expansion Tank

Proper installation of the expansion tank is critical for maximum performance and safety. Here are some key guidelines:

• Position the tank on the cold water supply line leading to the water heater. Install it after any pressure reducing valve, backflow preventer, or water softener.
• Locate the expansion tank above the water heater to allow free thermal expansion into the tank. Never mount it below the water heater.
• Install a shut-off valve before the expansion tank for isolation if maintenance is needed. Also install a pressure relief valve after the tank.
• For horizontal installations, orient the tank with the connection point on top to avoid trapping air inside. Vertical orientations are also acceptable where space allows.
• Use a flexible connector for connecting the piping to the tank to avoid excess vibration noise.
• Tank must be anchored for stability. Floor-mounting or wall-strapping are options. Ensure the tank cannot fall over.
• Observe the direction of flow marked on the tank. Water must flow into the tank in the correct direction.

Double check local plumbing codes for any additional requirements when installing an expansion tank. Getting it installed correctly is key to maximizing the benefits.

How To Calculate the Right Expansion Tank Size

Choosing the right sized expansion tank is critical. An undersized tank will be ineffective and overloaded. An oversized tank wastes money and takes up unnecessary space.

Follow these steps for proper sizing:

1. Find the water heater’s tank capacity – check the manual or capacity label. This is given in gallons.
2. Calculate volume increase – Multiply the water heater capacity by 0.04 to get the expected volume increase in gallons.
3. Determine first hour delivery – Find the first hour rating of the water heater in gallons extracted during peak usage.
4. Add results – Add the volume increase and first hour delivery together.
5. Choose expansion tank – Select an expansion tank with a capacity that matches or slightly exceeds the calculated total. Allow 20% more capacity as a safety factor.
6. Verify acceptance rate – Double check that the flow rate of the selected tank meets or exceeds the water heater’s recovery rate in gallons per hour.

An accurately sized expansion tank will provide optimal protection. Consult a professional if unsure about the right tank sizing. Installing one that is too small can lead to problems.

Routine Maintenance Tips for Expansion Tanks

To maximize the life and functioning of a water heater expansion tank, follow these maintenance best practices:

• Check air pressure annually in the tank using an accurate pressure gauge on the air valve. Replenish air if it drops more than 10% from the recommended pressure.
• Inspect bladder – for older tanks, check the bladder every 2-3 years for signs of waterlogging or expansion limitation. Replace if needed.
• Flush & drain – open the drain valve annually to flush out any sediment or minerals from inside the tank.
• Watch for leaks – inspect external tank fittings, valves, and connectors for any sign of water leaks that indicate replacement is needed.
• Clean tank exterior to remove any dust or corrosion. Check that all straps and anchors are tight.
• Confirm water chemistry – ensure water pH, hardness, and chemistry allow the tank bladder material to remain in good condition.
• Replace outdated tanks – update to a newer tank if needed to comply with changes in water heater size, codes, or technology.

Proper maintenance greatly extends the service life of the expansion tank. Keeping it in good operating condition improves the safety of the overall water heating system.

Signs of Water Heater Expansion Tank Problems

Some common signs that the expansion tank needs servicing or replacing include:

• Reduced water pressure at taps, especially when the water heater is activated
• High water pressure spikes that exceed the pressure relief valve threshold
• Dripping or leaking relief valve that releases water due to excessive pressure
• Banging pipes and water hammer noises as valves slam shut after the water heater runs
• Bladder failure evidenced by internal waterlogging or inability to hold air pressure
• Rusty tank exterior or leaks at fittings, valves, or connections
• Old age – most expansion tanks wear out after 6-12 years depending on water quality and usage
• Bulging, deformities, or physical damage to the expansion tank from impact or pressure buildup

Catching expansion tank problems quickly allows repair or replacement before major system damage or failure occurs. Tank failures can happen slowly over time, so periodic inspections are key. Contact a professional residential plumber immediately if expansion tank issues are suspected.

Expansion Tank FAQs

How much air pressure should be in the expansion tank?

The proper air pre-charge pressure for most residential expansion tanks is between 40-50 psi. This matches the typical base water pressure. Check the tank specs or plumbing code for pre-charge details.

Where does the air inside the tank come from when it’s installed?

The necessary air pocket is filled at the factory when the tank is manufactured. It can also be manually filled via the air valve on site. Tanks are pre-charged with the right air pressure to start.

Can I install the expansion tank backwards?

No, the direction of water flow into the expansion tank matters. The inlet and outlet are clearly marked. Reverse installation can render it unable to absorb pressure properly.

How do I drain the expansion tank for maintenance?

Locate the drain valve near the bottom of the tank. Open it and let all water drain out into a bucket until empty. Leave the valve open while flushing or refilling.

Do all plumbing systems require expansion tanks?

If the home has a closed domestic water heating system, an expansion tank is required by most plumbing codes to control thermal expansion regardless of pipe material.

Conclusion

Installing a properly sized and positioned expansion tank is vital for all closed plumbing systems with a water heater. The expansion tank reduces pressure spikes and water hammering to prevent leaks, damage, and safety hazards. It allows absorbed thermal expansion in a flexible bladder while maintaining stable water pressure.

Regular maintenance and monitoring expansion tanks for signs of failure enables catching problems early. Replacing outdated or worn-out tanks in time ensures you reap the benefits an expansion tank provides, including system protection, energy savings, and improved safety during everyday water heating.

Basics of Water Heater Expansion Tanks

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