Do You Need an Expansion Tank on a Water Heater?

In the early 2000s, videos of water tank explosions started making the rounds on the internet, making people run into a panic state and rightfully so. To address the issue, building codes added the need for a water heater expansion tank to add more layers of safety.

However, as years passed, water heaters were updated to accommodate the excessive pressure. Now, with the contact of the most skilled service for water heater repair right at our fingertips, it is necessary to understand if you need a water heater expansion tank.

But before that, let’s dive into the basics.

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What Is A Water Heater Expansion Tank?

Popularly known as the thermal expansion tank, a water heater expansion tank is a tiny overflow tank that takes over the excessive thermal expansion of water inside the heater. We all know that with the rise in temperature the water pressure also increases and if remained unchecked it can cause damage to valves, plumbing, or the water heater itself.

Before check valves were put in place, the excess pressure could just force the water back into the municipal water lines. However, this was soon stopped, and check valves or other similar devices were put in place to prevent contamination of the public water supply. Soon, however, it was discovered that these check valves put immense pressure on water heaters, and that was when thermal expansion tanks became important since they could solve this problem by accommodating this overflowing water.

What Are The Pros Of Getting A Water Heater Expansion Tank?

If you have made up your mind regarding the installation of a thermal expansion tank, here is a list of its advantages.

• They prevent leaks that are caused by pressure buildup
• They offer a second layer of security along with the water heater’s pressure relief valve
• They are a good monetary investment since the water heater expansion tanks make sure there is no water damage or pipe bursts
• Cost-effective in terms of buying and installing when it comes to its long-term benefits.
• They are known for not taking up a lot of space.

What Are The Cons Of Getting A Water Heater Expansion Tank?

So now that the pros are out of the way let’s also discuss the cons to better understand if a water heater expansion tank is best suited to your needs.

• Improper installation can lead to damage.
• The thermal expansion tank is made up of several components that can wear out easily.

However, all of these cons can be addressed by reliable services that offer hot water heater repair in Sacramento.

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Now, coming to the most important question-

Do You Need A Water Heater Expansion Tank?

According to building safety codes, all closed water heater systems need to have expansion tanks. Since backflow could contaminate the municipal water supply chain, it is necessary for all homes to incorporate check valves to prevent water from backing up into the supply lines. This has led to all homes having closed-loop systems, making it mandatory for water heater installations to incorporate a thermal expansion tank.

However, if your current water heater was installed before this mandate and is not equipped with an expansion tank, adding a water heater expansion tank can greatly benefit your system and home. Not only does high water pressure lead to leaks, ruptures, and corrosion in your system, it can also pose a major safety threat to your home. Therefore, while a water heater expansion tank is an additional cost that you might want to avoid, it can help you save money in the long run.

What Size Of Water Heater Expansion Tank Would You Need?

While this is something only your service provider for tankless water heater installation can help you with, here is a way to determine the same.

If your water heater capacity is less than or up to 60 gallons

• When water pressure is more than 50 psi, you would need a 2-gallon expansion tank
• When water pressure is between 50-60 psi, a 3.2-gallon expansion tank should be sufficient.

If your water heater capacity is much greater than 60 gallons

• When water pressure is much greater than 60 psi, you will need a 4.4-gallon expansion tank.

How To Extend The Life-span Of A Water Heater Expansion Tank?

A normal water heater expansion tank needs to be replaced once every five to ten years. However, there are ways you can use them for longer.

1. Make sure the tank’s pressure matches the incoming water pressure to preserve the life of the bladder and prevent leak issues with valves.
2. Don’t forget to schedule regular maintenance sessions.

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Whether it is a water heater malfunction or the need to install a thermal expansion tank, you can always count on our 24/7 service for fast, transparent and reliable solutions. Plumbing emergencies can wreak havoc in our lives, and that is why we don’t charge even a penny extra for after-hours.

Preferred Plumbing and Drain’s 30 years of experience in the industry has made us the best service provider for water heater repair in Sacramento. We come prepared with the best-in-class tools and parts so you never have to worry about your plumbing problems again. Contact us today to get a quote!