Expanding on a common boiler question
Expansion tanks must be installed on the supply side of the boiler—where cooler water enters the boiler to be heated again.
Expansion tanks must be installed between the boiler and the circulator, and they must be 18 inches or more away from the boiler’s vent connector.
Most expansion tanks work properly when standing upright, but some models allow for a horizontal installation.
Signs of a poorly installed expansion tank include rapid pressure increases, strange new noises, and malfunctioning bleed valves.
Wondering where the expansion tank should be installed on your boiler? The expansion tank, or thermal expansion tank, is a 3 to 5 pound tank that sits close to boilers and water heaters, performing a small but necessary function. Inside is a trapped pocket of air that expands and contracts in response to pressure. When water is heated, it expands, so the tank allows water to expand and pushes back as the water cools, keeping the pressure at safe levels while heating the water to high temperatures.
To do that job properly, the expansion valve needs to be installed in the right spot on the boiler. Let’s dive into the details of where to install an expansion tank and when to hire a boiler professional for help.
The most common spot to install the expansion tank on a boiler is slightly above or close beside the boiler—wherever it’s easiest to strap the tank in next to the supply pipe and secure it for the long term. Here are the rules that the tank placement should follow:
The tank should be installed at least 18 inches from the vent connector of the boiler.
The tank must be installed on the supply side of the boiler, not the “cool” side of the boiler where returning water comes. Supply pipes are usually higher and marked with the direction of water flow.
The tank should usually be installed upright.
The tank must be properly supported with metal straps or brackets. It cannot be attached to the piping and left to hang.
The tank must be installed between the shut-off valve and the tank inlet.
The tank must be installed above the pressure relief valve on the boiler.
If the boiler has a system circulator on the supply side, the expansion tank must be installed between the boiler and the circulator.
Boiler manuals have more specific instructions for installation. Keep in mind that larger boilers may need larger expansion tanks. Consider hiring a local boiler installer to add an expansion tank, ensuring a high-quality and long-lasting placement.
If you’re worried that your expansion tank is in the wrong position, there are several signs that something has gone wrong. Look for these clues, especially if they happen right after an expansion tank installation.
A completely upside-down tank: Some expansion tanks have the option to place them horizontally, but the tank should never be installed upside-down. That prevents the air from condensing properly
Leaks from a new expansion tank: A new leak could indicate an installation on the wrong part of the system or with the wrong connections, especially if it starts leaking immediately when you turn the boiler system on. If multiple leaks suddenly appear after a new tank installation, that could mean the tank is failing to do its job.
Misbehaving faucets: If you turn on your faucets and the water shoots out extra-hard for the first several seconds, then your system is over-pressurized. One cause is a malfunctioning expansion tank that isn’t allowing the proper contraction and expansion of air. This only applies to boilers that also heat water for heating.
Rapid (and dangerous) pressure increases: If heated water doesn’t have any place to push extra air, then it will quickly raise the pressure of the boiler into the danger zone. If you see the pressure gauge showing alarming signs, shut it down and consult a boiler professional.
Malfunctioning bleed or relief valves: Bleed and relief valves normally bleed out excess air from the system. But if these valves immediately leak water without bleeding out air, the expansion tank likely has an issue.
A dull thudding sound: Give the tank a rap with your knuckles when the boiler is turned off. A healthy expansion tank should have a clear, hollow sound, showing that it’s filled with air. If the tank has a dull thud instead, it may be filled with water and not working properly.
Alarming cracking noises: When a boiler system can’t deal with pressure properly, the pipes and pipe joints suffer the most. This can create alarming popping and cracking noises, especially once the boiler is turned off and the pressure on the pipes eases.
Most home boilers will need an expansion tank. That’s because these boilers are closed-loop systems, where the water is trapped. An expansion tank is needed when the boiler heats the water and it expands, allowing air to condense in the tank to make room for the water. Other types of boilers don’t use an expansion tank, such as traditional steam boilers, but these aren’t as common. And hot water tanks may be able to use a pressure release valve instead. When in doubt, call in a pro to take a look.
An expansion tank must always be installed on the supply side, which is the side where the boiler sends water out to heat the systems. That placement allows the water to push against the air and condense properly as it is heated, then circulated through the system. Professional installers can recommend the best place on the supply side for an expansion tank.
Always follow the instructions for your specific expansion tank if you are installing it yourself. That said, most expansion tanks can be installed on their side if space is limited . Many come with mounting options and instructions for a horizontal placement. Just remember to install at the correct height and the correct side of the boiler.
Unless they are connected to the same system, boilers and water heaters will both need their own expansion tanks. The only case they wouldn’t have separate expansion tanks is if the boiler is pulling double duty and managing a heating system while also supplying hot water for a home. In which case, you may not need a hot water heater.
If your boiler needs an expansion tank, you need to find the room to install it. If you’re new to your home and you aren’t sure if the boiler has a current expansion tank or needs one, ask a local heating service to come take a look. You may be able to reposition a boiler or do some small remodeling to make room for the tank if necessary, but a boiler pro may also be able to suggest a way to fit it in more easily.
