Inspection Training

How to inspect the Expansion Tank at the Water Heater

While the inspector is at the water heater they should visually inspect the expansion tank to make sure that it is properly installed and supported. Please review the entire procedure below.

NACHI SOP

International Standards of Practice for Performing a General Home Inspection

 

3.6. Plumbing

 

I. The inspector shall inspect:

C. The water heating equipment, including the energy source, venting connections, temperature/pressure-relief (TPR) valves, Watts 210 valves, and seismic bracing.

 

II. The inspector shall describe:

N/A

 

III. The inspector shall report as in need of correction:

N/A

 

IV. The inspector is not required to:

B. Measure the capacity, temperature, age, life expectancy or adequacy of the water heater.

 

Axium SOP Differences

Axium Requires: The inspector should check the expansion tank for any general damage or leaking, as well as making sure it was properly installed and secured.

 

Tools Needed

No tools required to inspect the Expansion Tank.

 

Procedure

  • While inspecting the water heater we will want to check the expansion tank to make sure it is secured properly and there is no damage or leaking coming from the tank. There is one picture for this section if the expansion tank is present and it should just show as much of the expansion tank as possible, including support straps.

 

Common Defects

  • The expansion tank was damaged, leaking, not properly installed, or not properly secured.

 

Common Mistakes

  • Not checking to make sure the expansion tank is secured properly.
  • Not checking the tank with your hand to feel for any leaking.

 

Report / Software

IN
  • The water heater had an expansion tank installed to allow for thermal expansion of water in the plumbing pipes. The expansion tank appeared to be properly installed and in serviceable condition.

NI
  • N/A

NP
  • The water heater did not have an expansion tank installed. Expansion tanks are not required on all water heater installations.

RR
  • The water heater had an expansion tank installed to allow for thermal expansion of water in the plumbing pipes. The expansion tank [word 1]. A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary.
    • Was Damaged
    • Was Leaking
    • Was Not Properly Installed
    • Was Not Properly Secured

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