What are Expansion Tanks Used For
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Water when heated will expand. This is due to the fact that its density decreases and volume increases. However, water is not a compressible and this extra volume has to go somewhere. In the case of water heaters where there is no way for the expanded volume to flow the pressure of the system increases. This increase in pressure can result in numerous problems. Some of these problems include pressure surges.
These problems are solved by installing an expansion tanks. But what is an expansion tank? An expansion tank is a tank that attached to domestic hot water systems and closed water heating system. It is used to counter the extra pressure caused either by water hammer or thermal expansion.
The expansion tank is divided horizontally into two parts by a rubber diaphragm. The top side of the tank is connected to the water heating system. This is the side that contains the water. The bottom side contains air under pressure. This side normally has a Schrader valve that is used to check the pressure and to add air.
When there water pressure is normal the air will press against the diaphragm, and when the water pressure increases, it will press against the diaphragm. The compressibility of air acts as a cushion for the pressure shock. This cushioning effect prevents the increased pressure from damaging the water heating system and the plumbing system.
Expansion tanks are of two types - potable and non potable. The potable type refers to the type of expansion tank that is used in domestic water heating system. The water in this system could be consumed by people and it is not meant to be recirculated within the system. Non potable type has water that is recirculated within the system and not meant to be consumed by people.