When it comes to home repair projects, one of the most common tasks that you'll hear about is water heater replacement. Every water heater has a defined lifespan, so water heater replacement is something most homeowners will encounter at some point. Unfortunately, there's also a lot of misinformation out there about water heater installation. If the time has come for you to install a new hot water heater in your home, it's important that you understand the truth behind some of the most common misconceptions. Here are a few of the things that you need to know.
The Expansion Tank Serves A Vital Purpose
No matter what type of water heater you opt to install in your home, you may have heard that expansion tanks are unnecessary. As a result, you may ask your water heater installation contractor to skip the expansion tank installation. However, this could be costly and dangerous for your home and your water heater. The expansion tank plays a vital role in preventing pressure problems in your water heater. As the water heats up, it expands. When it expands, it can increase the pressure in the tank. The expansion tank will provide a place for that overflow to go so that it doesn't exceed the safe pressure of the tank or force water back into the plumbing lines. Make sure that you have the expansion tank installed as part of your new water heater installation.
You Need To Direct The TPR Valve
In the past, it was believed that the TPR valve, or the temperature relief valve, could release anywhere. However, this could allow the discharge from that valve to damage the area around the tank if you don't direct that discharge. The fact is that you should direct the drain line from the TPR valve to a drain or outlet that flows outside. That way, you can keep the discharge clear of the inside of your home.
Your Water Heater Should Be Installed In A Pan
Even if water heater drip pans are optional where you live, it's important that you have your water heater installed in one. Using the pan under your water heater will help to protect your floors and your home from any water that may seep out of the tank. Your water heater installation contractor will help you choose the right pan for your new water heater.
Talk with a local water heater installation contractor today for more help and information.
What was the first thing you did when you got up this morning?
If you answered "go to the bathroom," "get a drink of water," or "brush my teeth," then it's important to realize the role that a plumber has already played in your day. The plumber who installed your plumbing made that morning routine possible! Some other plumbers may have worked on the system over the years, also contributing to your experience. Plumbers have a bigger impact on our daily lives than we often realize. In fact, that's one reason we write this blog — to make our readers more aware of their plumbing.