In accordance with the IPC, where should expansion tanks be installed?

Expansion tanks are designed to absorb excess pressure caused by thermal expansion in hot water systems. According to the International Plumbing Code (IPC), the appropriate location for an expansion tank is on the cold water supply pipe leading to the water heater. This placement allows the tank to effectively accommodate the increased pressure that occurs when water is heated.

When water is heated, it expands, and without an expansion tank, this pressure can build up to potentially damaging levels. By installing the expansion tank on the cold water supply line, it can properly manage this expansion before it reaches the water heater. As the water heats up and expands, it pushes into the tank, allowing the air cushion inside to absorb the increased volume while maintaining system pressure within safe limits.

The other locations, such as on the hot water supply or drainage system, would not effectively serve this purpose, as the hot supply line would not allow for the necessary mitigation of thermal expansion pressure. Therefore, placing the expansion tank on the cold water supply pipe is essential for maintaining system integrity and preventing damage from pressure surges.