You pressurize a hot water expansion tank by adjusting the air pressure within it to match your home's water pressure. Here's a step-by-step guide:
Steps to Pressurize an Expansion Tank
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Determine Your Home's Water Pressure: Find out the typical water pressure in your house. This can often be found on your pressure regulator, or by using a water pressure gauge connected to an outside faucet. The pressure is usually between 40 and 60 PSI.
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Locate the Schrader Valve: Find the Schrader valve on the expansion tank. It looks similar to a tire valve on a car. It's usually located on the top or side of the tank, often covered by a small cap.
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Check the Existing Air Pressure: Remove the cap from the Schrader valve. Use a tire pressure gauge to check the current air pressure in the tank.
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Adjust the Air Pressure:
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If the pressure is too low: Use a hand pump (bicycle pump or small hand-held air pump) to add air to the tank until the pressure matches your home's water pressure. Important: Do not use an air compressor, as it can easily over-pressurize and damage the bladder inside the expansion tank.
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If the pressure is too high: Depress the pin in the center of the Schrader valve to release air until the pressure matches your home's water pressure.
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Re-check the Pressure: After making adjustments, double-check the pressure with the tire gauge to ensure it's correct.
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Replace the Cap: Replace the cap on the Schrader valve to protect it from dirt and debris.
Why is Pressurizing an Expansion Tank Important?
The expansion tank's air pressure and water pressure need to be closely aligned. This allows the tank to effectively absorb the expanding water as it heats up, preventing excessive pressure buildup in your plumbing system. Maintaining proper air pressure prevents damage and leaks.
Important Considerations:
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Waterlogged Tank: If water comes out of the Schrader valve when checking the pressure, it likely means the bladder inside the tank has failed, and the tank needs to be replaced.
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Hand Pump is Key: Using a hand pump allows for more controlled inflation, preventing accidental over-pressurization, which can ruin the bladder.
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Water Pressure: Adjusting the tank to your home's water pressure is important to ensure proper function of the tank.
By following these steps, you can properly pressurize your hot water expansion tank and ensure the efficient and safe operation of your hot water system.
