Expansion Tanks – What Are Signs of Trouble?

May 28

Gibbon Heating & Air Conditioning has proudly served Saskatoon, Martensville, Warman and the surrounding areas since 1978. As a comprehensive service provider, we specialize in designing, installing, servicing, and maintaining home comfort and indoor air quality systems. In this post, we’ll explore the importance of expansion tanks and highlight key signs that indicate when your tank may need repair or replacement. Plus, we’ll share a few easy ways to assess the condition of your water tank.

Signs of Trouble with Your Expansion Tank

We’ll also provide a few straightforward methods to assess the health of your water tank.

One essential yet often overlooked component in both residential and commercial heating systems is the expansion tank. This device is designed to manage the thermal expansion of water as it heats up in the water heater, playing a crucial role in maintaining safe water pressure levels. Without it, increased pressure can damage valves, joints, and other plumbing fixtures, leading to costly repairs.

Signs of a Faulty Expansion Tank:

Leaking Water:

If your expansion tank is showing signs of wear and tear due to age or other factors, it may develop leaks. Keep an eye out for any water leaking from the pipe at the top of the tank or around its vicinity. Should you notice any leaks, it’s crucial to have the tank professionally assessed by a plumber. They will determine whether a simple repair can fix the issue or if a complete tank replacement is necessary.

Crossed Water Lines:

The water heater serves as a heat source, causing the water to expand as it heats up. Without an expansion tank to accommodate this expanded water volume, the pressure within the system gradually builds up until something gives way. Typically, the water heater is the first to suffer, but pipes, fittings, and other water system components can also break. The lines that were once parallel to each other will now cross over one another. The expansion tank acts as a reservoir, absorbing the excess water volume created during expansion and pushing it back into the system when water is used (such as by turning on a faucet). This process helps regulate the pressure within the system, preventing damage to the entire plumbing system.

Maintenance Tips: How to Determine if Your Expansion Tank is Functioning Properly

Check the Relief Valve:

Take a look at the relief valve on your expansion tank, which resembles a bike valve. Push the small needle in and listen for a hissing sound, indicating the release of air. If you hear air being released, it means that the expansion tank is functioning correctly. However, if you don’t hear any sound, it’s a clear sign that your expansion tank has a problem and should be inspected by a professional.

Knock on the Tank:

A simple yet effective way to assess the condition of your expansion tank is by giving it a light tap. If the tank produces a hollow sound, it indicates that the tank is still in good working order. On the other hand, a thudding or dull sound suggests that the tank has been compromised and may require attention.

Expansion tanks play a critical role in maintaining the integrity of your residential or commercial heating system. By allowing for the expansion of water as it heats up, these tanks prevent dangerous pressure levels that can cause damage to plumbing fixtures and other system components. As a responsible homeowner or business owner, it’s important to be aware of the signs of a faulty expansion tank, such as leaking water and crossed water lines. Regular maintenance and checks, such as testing the relief valve and inspecting the tank’s sound when tapped, will ensure the smooth functioning of your expansion tank. If you suspect any issues, contact Gibbon Heating & Air Conditioning who can assess the situation and recommend the appropriate repairs or replacements. Remember, a well-maintained expansion tank contributes to your heating system’s overall efficiency and longevity.

CALLE BEHNKE