Installation tank

Water expands as it heats up, and without an expansion tank attached to the water heater, a closed plumbing system can experience damage from this thermal expansion. An expansion tank provides space for this expanding water, thereby reducing pressure on the water heater tank, and on the pipes and fixture. An expansion tank is most critical in closed plumbing systems, where some form of pressure-limiting valve or back-flow valve prevents the expanding water from backing up into the municipal water main.

Inside an expansion tank is a flexible rubber diaphragm that divides the tank into two sections—one of which accepts expansion water as it heats, the other which provides an air chamber that becomes slightly pressurized as the diaphragm expands into it. Since water heater installation generally requires a plumbing permit, you will learn about any expansion tank requirements when applying for a permit to install the water heater.

An expansion tank is usually not required if the system does not have some type of pressure-limiting or back-flow valve that keeps the system closed. But if your system does have some type of limiting valve, it is a good idea to install an expansion tank, even if it is not required the local code.

The installation described here uses existing copper tubing and sticks to general guidance. Your installation may be different depending on the size of the pipes in your situation and other factors; if you're uncertain about how to proceed at any point, call a professional. An expansion tank is generally installed directly above the water heater by means of a tee-fitting installed in the cold water delivery pipe. The expansion tank is usually installed vertically, though it is acceptable to install it horizontally if it is necessary because of space limitations.

The plumbing fittings you will need depend on the type of plumbing pipes you have and on how the expansion tank is oriented, but most commonly the connections are made with copper pipes and fittings. After the water heater is correctly positioned, attach a dielectric union to the cold water entry port.

Wrap the threads of the union with pipe-sealing tape, then thread it into the cold water inlet port on the water heater, using a pipe wrench or channel-lock pliers. Wrap several loops of pipe-sealing tape around the top threads of the union, then thread a female threaded copper adapter onto the union.

Tighten securely with a pipe wrench or channel-lock pliers. Compare the advantages you have with each company in terms of whether you can pay a fixed price for propane over a certain period, whether you can pay for a propane delivery over several months, and what fees and charges apply for each company for out-of-hours deliveries, for example.

The Better Business Bureau places Amerigas at the top of the three largest propane dealers before Suburban Propane and Ferrellgas though company reputation also varies depending on where the outlet is situated. Compare safety record by enquiring how long companies take to respond to propane emergencies, whether they offer gas appliance systems checks and yearly propane system inspections and whether they have responded to any propane emergencies in the last year.

Average propane tank and installation prices If you decide to purchase a propane tank from a company price will be an important factor in your decision.

Tank installation: obtaining a permit Local authorities require that you apply for a propane tank permit as part of your tank installation process. Physical installation process Once you have decided on a company to install your propane tank, a special truck will drive it to your home and qualified technicians will install it for you.

Process for connecting a propane tank during installation Once the propane tank is physically setup it needs to be fitted for your propane appliances to function. There are four types of propane fittings, which are also usually provided and setup by the propane company during installation: Gauges: The float or dial gauge indicates how much propane is in your tank, whereas the fixed level gauge lets the company know when to stop filling it during a delivery.

Regulators: They ensure appliances are getting propane under the right pressure. Pressure-intensive appliances need high-pressure or adjustable high-pressure regulators; ordinary appliances two-stage two components or integral two-stage regulators one component. Valves: They are used to relieve excess pressure in the tank relief valve , fill propane tanks fill valve , let vapor enter the gas appliance system service valve , release excess pressure as the tank is being filled vapor eliminator valve or remove propane from the tank liquid withdrawal valve.

Piping connects the propane tank and the propane appliances. Checking for leaks and inspecting the propane installation The last step in the propane tank installation process involves a leak check and, usually, a gas appliance systems GAS check. These tools help regulate the amount of pressure applied to the water line that runs from the well or other source to the storage tank inlet. Pressure systems are complicated as is, and those fixed to underground water storage tanks will only require greater professional expertise to install.

Our tanks are made from a resilient polyethylene plastic and come in several colors and sizes. Wherever water is needed, a storage tank is sure to come in handy Even if your property is supplied by a well or municipal water system, storage tanks can still help harvest rainwater and save you money on your utility bills. Aboveground or Underground: Pros and Cons Before you decide on a tank you should decide whether you want to install it above or below ground.

For aboveground tanks there are a few advantages: Cheaper to install — Tanks installed aboveground are a lot cheaper and easier to install than underground tanks. Easier to maintain — Compared to underground tanks, aboveground tanks are easier to monitor for scratches and breaches. That said, aboveground tanks are more vulnerable to extreme weather that could create cracks or holes—not to mention theft or vandalism.

Smart use of space — Tanks buried below ground are better concealed and, in some cases, provide more room for aboveground development, like lawns, roads, and access shelters. Even if the tank is only partially buried it can dramatically improve views and save space for other structures and equipment.

Steadier temperatures — Underground tanks are less vulnerable to ambient temperature swings. Thus, they hold more even and consistent temperatures.

In warm climates, underground tanks can also keep temperatures cooler, which in turn help limit microbial growth. However, underground tanks are difficult and expensive to install, as owners will have to dig a large hole and, in some cases, reinforce the tank to protect it from ground shift.

How To Install a Water Storage Tank There are many kinds of water storage tanks, from reverse osmosis systems to rain harvesters.

April 27, For an above ground propane tank, we will put a concrete pad or blocks in place before we install your tank. For underground propane tanks we will make sure the hole meets distance and excavation requirements.

AmeriGas technicians may be able to dig a hole for an underground propane tank if one does not already exist or does not meet requirements. Ask about fees associated with excavation. The AmeriGas service crew will lift and place the tank on its concrete pad or in its hole. After the tank has been set and leveled, we will run the propane gas lines and test the system for leaks. A delivery driver will then fill the tank with propane.

Take comfort knowing we are here for you every step of the way. Following the test and safety inspection, our team will review the installation with you to explain how your system works, walk you through safety procedures, and answer any questions you may have.

For safe and accurate installation of your propane tank, installation guidelines must be followed.