Initial Inspection and Inaccurate Pressure Check — Check and Adjust New Tank Pressure
Part of project
How to Replace a Water Heater Expansion Tank · Step 4 of 7
In this video
The presenter introduces the well pressure tank, explaining the importance of maintaining the correct internal air pressure for proper function. He removes the plastic cap from the Schrader valve on top of the tank. He notes the current water system pressure is about 45 PSI on the gauge. He then uses a digital inflator to check the air pressure in the tank, which also reads 45 PSI, demonstrating that checking the air pressure while the tank is full of water is not an accurate method for determining the pre-charge.
Goal: Plumbing
- Pressure tanks should be checked for correct air pressure at least once a year, or every six months for best practice.
Used in this video
- Digital Tire Inflator (brand: Stanley, Tool Type: Hand Tools, Power Source: Cordless) — Checking the air pressure in the tank.
- Pressure Gauge (brand: Unknown, Tool Type: HVAC Gauges) — Monitoring the water pressure in the system.
662K subscribers
FAQs
What are the essential safety precautions I need to take before starting to replace my water heater expansion tank?
The most crucial steps are to completely shut off the power (gas or electricity) to your water heater and turn off the main water supply to your home. Additionally, relieve the pressure in the system by opening a hot water faucet and draining a small amount of water from the water heater's drain valve. This prevents scalding and flooding.
Do I need any special tools for this project, or will standard home tools suffice?
While some basic tools are common, a MaxxHaul 60 PSI Pressure Gauge is essential for correctly setting the new tank's pre-charge pressure to match your home's water pressure. You will also need two heavy-duty pipe wrenches (like KNIPEX or Crescent) to effectively loosen and tighten the tank connections without damaging pipes. Having these specific tools makes the job much easier and safer.
How long should a beginner expect this project to take, and is it truly a 'beginner' level DIY task?
For a beginner, this project typically takes between 1 to 3 hours, assuming you have all the tools and materials ready. It is considered a beginner-friendly plumbing task as long as you meticulously follow the step-by-step instructions, especially regarding safety and proper pressure adjustment. Patience and preparation are key to a successful outcome.
What's the most common mistake people make when installing a new expansion tank, and how can I avoid it?
The most common mistake is not correctly adjusting the new expansion tank's pre-charge air pressure to match your home's incoming water pressure. Use a pressure gauge to measure your home's cold water pressure and adjust the tank's air valve to match it before installation. An improperly charged tank won't function effectively and can lead to future issues.
Initial Inspection and Inaccurate Pressure Check — Check and Adjust New Tank Pressure
Part of project
How to Replace a Water Heater Expansion Tank · Step 4 of 7
In this video
The presenter introduces the well pressure tank, explaining the importance of maintaining the correct internal air pressure for proper function. He removes the plastic cap from the Schrader valve on top of the tank. He notes the current water system pressure is about 45 PSI on the gauge. He then uses a digital inflator to check the air pressure in the tank, which also reads 45 PSI, demonstrating that checking the air pressure while the tank is full of water is not an accurate method for determining the pre-charge.
Goal: Plumbing
- Pressure tanks should be checked for correct air pressure at least once a year, or every six months for best practice.
Used in this video
- Digital Tire Inflator (brand: Stanley, Tool Type: Hand Tools, Power Source: Cordless) — Checking the air pressure in the tank.
- Pressure Gauge (brand: Unknown, Tool Type: HVAC Gauges) — Monitoring the water pressure in the system.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the essential safety precautions I need to take before starting to replace my water heater expansion tank?
The most crucial steps are to completely shut off the power (gas or electricity) to your water heater and turn off the main water supply to your home. Additionally, relieve the pressure in the system by opening a hot water faucet and draining a small amount of water from the water heater's drain valve. This prevents scalding and flooding.
Do I need any special tools for this project, or will standard home tools suffice?
While some basic tools are common, a MaxxHaul 60 PSI Pressure Gauge is essential for correctly setting the new tank's pre-charge pressure to match your home's water pressure. You will also need two heavy-duty pipe wrenches (like KNIPEX or Crescent) to effectively loosen and tighten the tank connections without damaging pipes. Having these specific tools makes the job much easier and safer.
How long should a beginner expect this project to take, and is it truly a 'beginner' level DIY task?
For a beginner, this project typically takes between 1 to 3 hours, assuming you have all the tools and materials ready. It is considered a beginner-friendly plumbing task as long as you meticulously follow the step-by-step instructions, especially regarding safety and proper pressure adjustment. Patience and preparation are key to a successful outcome.
What's the most common mistake people make when installing a new expansion tank, and how can I avoid it?
The most common mistake is not correctly adjusting the new expansion tank's pre-charge air pressure to match your home's incoming water pressure. Use a pressure gauge to measure your home's cold water pressure and adjust the tank's air valve to match it before installation. An improperly charged tank won't function effectively and can lead to future issues.