How do expansion tanks work?

Expansion tanks work by equalizing pressure throughout the system. As hot water enters the heating system, the pressure in the system increases. As pressure increases, the diaphragm in the expansion tank is pushed down. This compresses the air in the tank, creating more space for excess water to enter.

Does an expansion tank help with water pressure?

The thermal expansion tank does more to protect your home than you might realize. It helps keep your home’s water pressure in check — and water pressure, if left to its own devices, can do some serious damage.

Is an expansion tank required for a water heater?

While expansion tanks are required by code in most closed-loop water heater systems, they have a reputation for failing. Common expansion tank issues include: Rubber Diaphragm Wear Out.

Does an electric hot water heater need an expansion tank?

If your home has a “closed” plumbing system, then yes, you’ll need an expansion tank. You see, homes have either an open or a closed plumbing system. A closed plumbing system prevents water from flowing in the reverse direction (i.e., water won’t flow back into city lines once it enters your home’s pipes).

What is the purpose of expansion tank in chilled water system?

Expansion tanks are required in a closed loop heating or chilled water HVAC system to absorb the expanding fluid and limit the pressure within a heating or cooling system.

What’s the difference between a pressure tank and expansion tank?

The most significant difference between expansion and pressure tanks is their functionality. An expansion tank handles water expansion and provides protection for water valves and heaters. On the other side, the pressure tank lengthens the lifespan of the pump.

What happens when expansion tank fails?

Oftenthe diaphragm dividing the two systems will fail, causing the two systems to become one. When this happens, the expansion tank turns into a “dead leg” that will eventually cause damage and premature failure to your water heater.

What is an expansion tank and what does it do?

An expansion tank or expansion vessel is a small tank used to protect closed (not open to atmospheric pressure) water heating systems and domestic hot water systems from excessive pressure. The tank is partially filled with air, whose compressibility cushions shock caused by water hammer and absorbs excess water pressure caused by thermal expansion

Why do I need an expansion tank?

An expansion tank helps maintain a minimal pressure increase during heated water expansion, helps reduce water hammer, and helps protect the plumbing system from stress, and, of course, leads to a longer tank life.

Why am I required to install an expansion tank?

Why am I Required to Install an Expansion Tank? An expansion tank is installed on the water supply pipe to the water heater. Its purpose is to deal with thermal expansion of water as it heats up in the water heater. If water pressure gets high enough it can damage valves in plumbing fixtures, joints in supply pipes and even the water heater.

How important is the expansion tank?

An expansion tank is designed to relieve pressure in both potable water and closed hydronic heating systems. It ensures that constant pressure is maintained within the pipes so they do not get damaged from excess pressure.