Supplies for Expansion Tanks

Get the supplies you need to install and maintain your expansion tanks

Expansion tanks are additional units that connect to water heaters, absorbing the extra pressure created when heating water and preventing valve discharge. These tanks are often used in domestic water systems help prevent problems. However, these tanks require tools for installation and supplies for regular maintenance to keep them running smoothly.

Supplies for expansion tanks include tee fittings, pipe wrenches and thread seal tape. These additional tools and fittings are essential for installing an expansion tank. In addition, supplies like tee fittings and thread seal tape may need to be replaced occasionally over the lifespan of the expansion tank. Before purchasing these supplies, consider the following:

1. Know the diameter of the pipes where you will install the tee fitting. This will make shopping for a tee fitting easier.

2. Make sure the pipe wrench you select will fit around your tank. Different sizes of pipe wrenches are available to help you find the best fit.

3. Thread seal tape should only be wrapped around the male end of the expansion tank connection.

 

Buy a tee fitting to attach your expansion tank

To install your expansion tank, you'll need to use a tee fitting. A tee fitting is a small metal fitting with three openings, shaped like the letter, T. They come in brass, copper or bronze. It's best to use a tee fitting made of the same metal as the pipes you are working with. Tee fittings allow you to attach well expansion tanks or regular expansion tanks to piping without diverting water flow.
Try: Learn more about how tee fittings are used in an expansion tank installation at Ask the Builder, or purchase one at the Plumber's Crib.

Secure your expansion tank in place with a pipe wrench

Tanks for expansion will require a wrench or pipe wrench to install. A regular wrench will do, but it's best to use a pipe wrench. You'll use the pipe wrench to tighten hot water expansion tanks once they are in position. Most expansion tanks for sale include a place to attach your tightening wrench, making the tank easy to install. Always read the tank installation instructions before attempting to secure it in place with your wrench.
Try: Pick up a pipe wrench from Ace Hardware. Learn more about wrench specifications and safety guidelines at the Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety, or visit the U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Health and Safety Administration for more information on hand and power tools.

Use thread seal tape to achieve an airtight seal during the installation of your expansion tank

Thread seal tape, often called plumber's tape or Teflon tape, is used to install an expansion tank. Thread seal tape is used by wrapping it around the tank's threaded connection. This allows it to form a better seal between the pipe's tee fitting and the tank's threads. Thread seal tape can help prevent leaks and improve a pipe connection's lifespan. It can be purchased at many local hardware stores, plumbing supply stores and even some expansion tank suppliers.
Try: Buy thread seal tape from Hi-Line, or Greenfeet.

 

• Expansion tank manufacturers can often recommend the best tools and supplies for the installation of their product. If you have any questions about the best type of tee fitting or other supplies or installation procedures, try contacting your expansion tank manufacturer. Most are happy to help with your installation.

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