The volume of water inside your water heater increases as it’s heated. In old plumbing systems, this expanding water would push some water outside your house and back into the main city supply where it came from. Due to plumbing code changes, cities nowadays prevent water heaters from releasing built-up pressure back into the public water system. So how then do you relieve the increasing pressure in your tank due to the expanding water? That’s where expansion tanks come in.
Let’s take a look at some of the top reasons why you need to install an expansion tank.
Reduce Plumbing Repairs
An expansion tank sits adjacent to or on top of your water heater. It absorbs the expanding water into a rubber bladder inside it, helping minimize the pressure inside your water heating system. If there’s no place for the pressure build-up to go, it can cause issues in your water heater, such as bursting of pipes and even explosion. The expansion tank protects your heating system’s components from the increased pressure and potential damage.
Increase System Lifespan
Pressure fluctuations increase the stress on your water heater’s valves, seams, and other parts. By relieving this stress, an expansion tank increases the life of your entire water heating system.
Easy to Install
Expansion tanks are easy to install. Typically, installation can be completed in less than an hour. Therefore, it won’t disrupt your daily activities at home.
Affordable
Expansion tanks come in a variety of sizes. Small tanks designed for residential use are cost-effective.
Bring Your Home up to Code
If the main water line has a backflow preventer, most cities and municipalities will require you to install a water heater expansion tank. Therefore, you may only pass a plumbing inspection if you’ve equipped your plumbing system with the tank. It’s also worth mentioning that many hot water tanks will require homeowners to have expansion tanks for full warranty coverage.
An expansion tank will make you incur a small additional cost, but it will help you save significantly in the long run. Once you invest in the tank, check it periodically to ensure its working properly by placing your hand to verify that its top portion is warm while its bottom portion is cold. If you have a question on expansion tanks, contact the plumbing experts at Mowery Heating, Cooling and Plumbing, proudly serving the Indianapolis area.
