Do gas water heaters need expansion tanks?
Do gas water heaters need expansion tanks?
If your home has a “closed” plumbing system, then yes, you’ll need an expansion tank. 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).
Why put an expansion tank on a water heater?
The expansion tank is designed to handle the thermal expansion of water as it heats up in the water heater, preventing excessive water pressure. If water pressure gets to high it can damage valves in plumbing fixtures, joints in supply pipes and the water heater itself.
How much does it cost to add an expansion tank to a water heater?
$145 – $350, Installed The cost to install a water heater expansion tank ranges from $55 and up for the rare DIY project, to about $350 when a pro adds an expansion tank to a large residential water heater.
Does the expansion tank go on the hot or cold side?
Although expansion tanks can be installed on the hot side, we strongly recommend they be installed on the cold line, downstream of the shutoff valve.
How often do expansion tanks need to be replaced?
Between five and 10 years
Between five and 10 years is the average lifespan of your tank. If your home’s water pressure matches the air pressure in your expansion tank, you can extend the life of your tank. You’ll need to replace it in some cases.
How much does it cost to have an expansion tank installed?
The job of the thermal expansion tank is to absorb the extra water volume so that the excess pressure does not cause undue wear and tear on the water heater and other fixtures in the home. The cost to install a new Thermal expansion tank can range from $279 to $443.
Should the expansion tank be hot?
To check if the expansion tank is working properly, simply place your hand on the tank and feel its temperature. The top portion of the tank should feel warm to the touch, and the bottom portion of the tank should be room temperature.
What does an expansion tank do on a water heater?
When you install an expansion tank, the extra water volume created by thermal expansion automatically rushes into the expansion tank, reducing the pressure inside your water heater. Because it reduces pressure, an expansion tank prolongs the life of your water heater.
How to install an expansion tank on a water heater?
Thermal expansion tank
Does your water heater need an expansion tank?
Using an expansion tank depends on the type of water heater in your home or business. For instance, if you use a regular storage heater, you will need to purchase an expansion tank. But For those that keep asking do I need an expansion tank for my tankless water heater? The answer is NO because these models don’t need it.
Do I need an expansion tank on my water heater?
Thermal expansion tanks or cushion tanks may be required on the incoming cold water. Most cities require that residential closed plumbing systems be equipped with expansion tanks. If you have some form of backflow preventer installed on the main water line, you may be required by law to also have a water heater expansion tank installed.