Georgia and Atlanta Plumbing code requires the installation of an expansion tank on water heater installations.

Why? Water expands when heated. This extra volume of water needs to go somewhere… Newer homes use backflow preventers, check valves and pressure reducing valves which push the expanded cold water back into the city water main. Because your house has at least one of these devices, you could have a problem. These devices prohibit the flow of water back into the public Atlanta plumbing and water system. Without an expansion tank, the expanding water can cause your water heater to possibly fail because of the increased water pressure. This pressure can cause serious life threatening problems if you heat your water with natural gas or propane. The water heater tank can collapse around the internal flue and cause carbon monoxide to enter your home. This is serious.

How does an Expansion Tank work? Expansion Tanks are really simple devices. They contain compressed air and a special expandable rubber bladder. When your water heater turns on, the water within your piping system begins to expand. This expanding water is stored in the expansion tank until it is eventually released through a faucet, releasing the extra water into the piping system.

Which Expansion Tank is right for me? Expansion Tanks come in various sizes. The size you need depends upon two very important variables. You need to know the capacity in gallons of your water heater and the water pressure of your piping system.

Only trust a Professional Licensed Atlanta Plumbing Professional to keep your family safe. Call Scott Plumbing at 770-318-1615.