What Is An Expansion Tank For A Water Heater?

At Four Seasons Heating & Cooling in the greater Chicago area, our experienced water heater technicians are well-versed in the purpose of expansion tanks and can perform professional expansion tank installation. If you have any questions about installing an expansion tank for your water heater or need water heater repair in Chicago, don’t hesitate to contact our team. We are dedicated to ensuring your water heater operates safely and efficiently, providing you with reliable hot water whenever you need it.

If you are looking for an experienced Chicago water heater company near you that can professionally install an expansion tank, contact Four Seasons Heating & Cooling at 866-444-2404 for a consultation.

How Does An Expansion Tank Water Heater Work?

A water heater expansion tank is a small but important component of a water heater system. It is installed on the cold water supply line to a water heater. Its purpose is to protect the water heating system and plumbing from the damage caused by the expansion of water as it is warmed. As the water heats up, it expands and increases in volume within the water heater tank. You may be wondering, “What is the purpose of an expansion tank?” The purpose of the expansion tank is to handle the thermal expansion of water as it heats up in the water heater, preventing excessive water pressure and potential leaks.

In a closed plumbing system, this expanding water has nowhere to go, which may cause pressure to build up. This can potentially lead to leaks or damage to the water heater or other components of the plumbing system. The water heater expansion tank provides a space for the expanding water, thus effectively reducing the pressure and safeguarding the entire system.

What Is The Blue Tank On Top Of My Water Heater?

The blue tank on top of a water heater is often an expansion tank. They are typically blue or white, so they can be easily identified as the component that is specifically designed to manage the pressure caused by thermal expansion. Depending upon the manufacturer, they are typically blue or white.

Do I Really Need An Expansion Tank On My Water Heater?

Due to regulations in most cities and counties, all new water heater installations in closed systems must include an expansion tank. Therefore, if you need to replace your water heater, it must have an expansion tank to be fully up to code. Closed heating and plumbing systems use devices like check valves and backflow prevention devices, such as expansion tanks, to prevent water from flowing back into the municipal water supply.  

However, an expansion tank may not be necessary if your water heating system is equipped with an open plumbing system, such as an open-loop solar heating system or a gravity-fed system. To determine if your specific water heating system requires an expansion tank, it is best to consult a licensed plumber near you from our team at Four Seasons Heating & Cooling, as we are well-versed in local plumbing codes, and can make sure your system is up to par. Adding an expansion tank to a current water heater system can also help prevent issues like leaks, ruptures, and corrosion, potentially saving you money on costly repairs in the long run, which we can also professionally provide for our clients. 

Benefits of Water Heater Expansion Tanks

Adding a water heater expansion tank offers several key benefits, other than bringing it up to regulation. These benefits include:

• Improved Efficiency – By reducing pressure fluctuations within the water heater system, an expansion tank enhances the efficiency of your existing water heater. This could potentially lower your energy bills over time.
• Protection from Pressure Build-Up – An expansion tank absorbs excess pressure caused by the expansion of heating water, preventing damage to pipes, fixtures, and appliances as well as preventing leaks within connected to the system.
• Reduced Noise – Expansion tanks minimize noisy hissing sounds by absorbing excess pressure, leading to quieter operation of the water heater.
• Safety for Occupants – An expansion tank also decreases the risk of damage or injury from potential malfunctions or explosions. This is especially needed if the water heater is located in a sensitive area like a bathroom.

Contact an Experienced Water Heater Expansion Tank Installation Company Near You

If you are looking for an experienced Chicago water heater company near you that can professionally install an expansion tank, contact Four Seasons Heating & Cooling at 866-444-2404 for a consultation.

At Four Seasons Heating & Cooling, we are dedicated to addressing all your questions about expansion water tanks for your water heaters, as well as providing installation and replacement services. Whether you need experienced guidance on choosing the right expansion tank or require professional installation or replacement services, our team is always here to assist. Since 1971, Four Seasons Heating & Cooling has provided plumbing services. We are a long-time trusted name in the Chicagoland area, known for our exceptional customer service and competitive pricing. Our fully licensed and experienced plumbers in Chicago are committed to delivering top-notch solutions and ensuring your satisfaction. We are your one-stop solution for all plumbing needs, including expansion tank services, and we won’t rest until your issue is resolved to your complete satisfaction.