Where to install an expansion tank?

[abkent]

I am installing an expansion tank to eliminate water hammer. (The water hammer started after city installed new meters with check valves...). I know it should be installed on the cold water side of the hot water heater, but my question is this: I also have a water softener on the cold water side, should the expansion tank go between the softener and the hot water heater, or before the softener?

Thanks,

abkent

[DUNBAR PLUMBER]

Water hammer can cause problems in your home, but the expansion tank is only part of the answer to your situation.



Read the following link that was produced on this site:

http://forum.doityourself.com/showthread.php?t=195599


You need to determine what your working pressure is. High water pressure can cause hard slamming of solenoid valves on washing machines, dishwashers, humidifiers on furnaces.


Expansion tanks should be located at the source of thermal expansion, but they can be placed anywhere on the cold water line starting from the main.


This is allowed in my area when you cannot install the tank at the water heater.

I always install thermal expansion tanks between the cold water inlet of the water heater and the shutoff valve serving the water heater.


Here is one situation where the installation prevented the tank going in as above described.



http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v70/DUNBAR/KENMORE1250.jpg