When you are thinking about installation or maintenance of your home plumbing system the most frequently asked question by homeowners is is an expansion tank required for water heaters? This is a very valuable question and by knowing about it you can improve systems efficiency, prevent costly damages and maintain the lifespan of a system.
So in this guide you can easily get to know about what expansion tanks are, why they are required and why these tanks matter. This will help you in making informed decisions and result in a worthwhile investment.
What is an expansion tank? How it works
So an expansion tank is basically an auxiliary small tank connected with the water heater system. Its main purpose is to absorb the excessive or extra pressure caused by thermal expansion when water is heated inside the tank.
As you should know about that when water heats it expands and in a closed plumbing system this expansion results in pressure to build up. So the expansion tank is for this purpose to absorb this pressure, extra volume and protect pipes,valves and water heater systems.
Importance of expansion tanks
If you dont have expansion tank with you water heaters then due to that pressure buildup you have to face several issues like:
- Water tank damages with time
- Leakages in pipes and fittings
- There is more risk of hazardous situations like water heater explosion
- Failure of plumbing equipments
That’s why homeowners ask this: does a water heater need an expansion tank? Its answer depends upon the setup of the plumbing system in your homes.
Do all water heaters need an expansion tank?
No it is not necessary that all water heaters need an expansion tank. However this depends and in many modern systems expansion tanks are required.
The main factor on which you need an expansion system is the plumbing system of your home. If your home has a closed plumbing system there is a requirement of these tanks. As water is unable to flow back to municipal supply due to this system. The reason behind this is:
- Pressure reducing valves
- Check valves
- Backflow preventers
So in these situations and systems expansion tanks become essential.
On other hand if you have an open plumbing system and water can easily flowback then there is no need for an expansion tank.
Is an expansion tank necessary on water heaters?
In many cases an expansion tank necessary on water heaters is yes.
In many regions due to building codes and for closed systems installation of expansion tanks becomes necessary. If your system has a pressure regulator and a backflow preventer then an expansion tank necessary on water heaters becomes a requirement.
As installing an expansion can:
- Extends the lifespan of system
- Prevents pressure buildup
- Reduce wear and tear on system
At MileHi HVAC we also recommend you to install expansion tanks with water heaters to be safe from costly damages and repairs.
Do I need an expansion tank for water heaters?
So do I need an expansion tank for water hearts? Here are some signs that you need:
Closed plumbing system
If you have a closed plumbing system, backflow preventer and pressure regulator then installation of an expansion tank is highly recommended for you.
Fluctuations in pressure
If you notice frequent pressure fluctuation it means that there is some issue in thermal expansion and you need an expansion tank.
Strange noises
Due to pressure buildup you hear some banging and popping sounds in pipes.
Relief valve leakage
A common sign of excessive pressure buildup is leakages in a dripping temperature and pressure relief valve.
If you notice these signals in your home then the answer to do i need an expansion tank for water heaters is absolutely yes.
Expansion tank prevents damages
An expansion tank absorbs the excessive water volume when the pressure increases then normal. It contains:
- A water chamber
- An air chamber
- A diaphragm
The expansion tank operates in a way that when pressure increases water enters inside the tank and compresses the air inside. So this keeps the pressure stable and prevents damage.
Without the expansion tank the pressure increases to a dangerous level and sometimes a water heater explosion.
Read More: Cold Field Water Heater Meaning.
Requirement of expansion tank for safety
Expansion plays an important role for safety. One of the common reasons behind this installation is safety concerns.
As when pressure builds up inside the tanks and there is no expansion tank installed it is very dangerous. The pressure stresses the tank and heating elements which leads to several cracks,leaks and system failure.
That is does a water heater needs an expansion tank is not just about efficiency but also for safety.
Expansion tank installation benefits
Installing an expansion tank in your homes provides you several benefits like:
Improved efficiency
It keeps a stable and normal pressure through which the system operates effectively.
Increased lifespan
It reduces the stress of your water heater and plumbing system. So your system operated for a longer period of time.
Reduced maintenance cost
Saves you from several heavy costly damages that lead to expensive repairs.
Enhanced safety
Reduces risk like water heater explosion and also prevents the risks related to excessive pressure buildup.
When Is an Expansion Tank Required by Code?
So in many areas there are some building codes which requires expansion tank in plumbing system when:
- There is closed plumbing system
- Installation of backflow preventer
- There is a pressure reducing valve
If you are installing a new water heater then you should have to look for some local regulations codes. In most cases there is a need to install expansion tanks.
That’s why if you are asking a question that is an expansion tank required for water heaters is yes mostly in case of modern systems.
How to choose the right expansion tank size
Choosing the right size of expansion tanks for your water heater system is very important when deciding whether an is expansion tank is required for the water heater.
You have to consider following factors like:
Capacity of water heater
Larger tanks about 70 to 80 gallons require larger size expansion tanks as compared to smaller size tanks.
Thermal expansion
If you need hotter water there should be more expansion so there is a need for a bigger size tank.
Water pressure
So higher pressure of water above 60psi requires a larger tank.
Professional help
If you are confused and want some guidance then contact Milehi HVAC for professional assistance.
Pressure matching
The pressure of the tank should be the same with your home’s system pressure.
Why Professional Installation Matters
In installation of expansion tanks it is highly recommended to contact experts like MileHi HVAC rather than DIY.
As a proper installation matters a lot and it depends upon the efficiency and performance of the system.
Improper installation results in:
- Reduced efficiency
- Incorrect pressure settings
- Several costly damages to the system
We ensure proper sizing, installation and maintenance for best performance.
Final Thoughts
So an expansion is required for water heaters, especially in closed plumbing systems. Even if your system does not require this it is a very smart and beneficial investment in terms of safety, efficiency and systems lifespan.
So if you still have any confusion about deciding is an expansion tank is necessary on water heaters or do I need an expansion tank for water heaters you should seek help from experts and professionals like MileHi HVAC. Need expert Denver water heater installation? For fast, reliable, and professional service, contact MileHi HVAC today!
FAQS
Does every home need an extension tank for its water heater?
No, but it is usually strongly advised and necessary in houses with closed plumbing systems.
Does my water heater require an expansion tank? If a pressure regulator is in my possession?
Yes, an expansion tank is required since a pressure regulator forms a closed system.
Do older homes require an expansion tank for a water heater?
Adding one can increase safety and prolong the life of the system, though not always.
Does a water heater need an expansion tank to stop leaks?
Yes, it aids in preventing pressure buildup, which can lead to valve and pipe leaks.
Can a water heater explosion be avoided with an expansion tank?
Yes, it greatly lowers the chance of a water heater explosion by managing pressure.
