Expansion tanks are devices that are installed on a closed water heating system to help keep the pressure from getting too high and causing problems. When water is heated, it expands and takes up more volume. This can cause the pressure in the closed system to increase, which can lead to problems like burst pipes or even damage to the water heater itself. By installing an expansion tank, you can help prevent these problems from occurring.
How Does a Water Heater Expansion Tank Work?
An expansion tank is basically a closed container of air that is connected to the water heater via a pipe. When the water in the system heats up and begins to expand, it will raise the pressure in the system. This increase in pressure will cause the diaphragm in the expansion tank to flex, which will compress the air inside of the tank. As the air is compressed, it will act as a cushion and absorb some of the increased pressure, preventing it from reaching dangerous levels.
Why Do Water Heater Expansion Tanks Fail?
There are several reasons why an expansion tank may fail. One of the most common reasons is that the diaphragm inside of the tank develops a leak. This can be caused by a manufacturing defect or simply from wear and tear over time.
Another common reason for failure is that the air charge inside of the tank gets too low. This can happen if there is a hole in the tank or if too much water has been added to the system.
Finally, expansion tanks may also fail if they are not properly sized for the system they are installed on. If an expansion tank is too small, it will not be able to adequately absorb all of the increased pressure and could lead to problems.
Why Is It Dangerous to Install a Water Heater Expansion Tank by Yourself?
Installing an expansion tank is not a difficult task, but it is important that it be done correctly in order to avoid any problems. One of the most common mistakes people make when installing an expansion tank is failing to properly purge the air out of the new tank before installing it. If there is air remaining in the tank when it is installed, it could cause problems with the way the system operate’s later on down the line.
Additionally, it is also important to make sure that you do not over-tighten any of the fittings when connecting it to the rest of your plumbing. Doing so could damage or break the fittings and cause a leak.
Finally, because they are pressurized devices, it is also recommended that you do not attempt to install an expansion tank by yourself. Hire professional to install your expansion tank is the safest option and can help ensure that it is mounted and plumbed correctly
