Water Heaters - Question about installing expansion tank

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jstonemo
02-23-06, 03:25 PM
I am going to install a thermal expansion tank for my water heater and have a question about the process. The manufacturer's directions don't state how to brace the line to hold the weight of the expansion tank. The CWS line to the tank has about a 2-3 foot run which would be perfect for the tank location, but the line runs parallel to the joists and is centered right between the joists.

I want to make sure if it needs to be braced or if the line will hold the weight of the tank. It is the Amtrol ST-12 which is has a capacity of 6.4 gallons. If you calculate just half of that in water weight plus the weight of the tank, we are talking about 35+ lbs. of weight.

Any input will be appreciated.

KField
02-27-06, 08:11 PM
You should find some way to support the weight. It probably will only have about a cup of water in it when it is working but if it ever fails, it will be full of water and the last thing you want is for it to break a pipe. Support it any way you can. Put a 2X4 between the joists and jang the 1/2" pipe off of that. Sioux Chief makes all sorts of hangers too that span the joists and have clips for copper tube. Any plumbing supply place and maybe even the big box may have them.

Ken