The manufacturers instructions show the expansion tank installed with a 'heat trap 6" minimum' drop to the side of the water heater.
I have a tall 30 gallon (< 17" diameter) water heater going in a narrow closet (< 24"). The copper cold/hot lines come up from the floor. Is there a safe way to orient the expansion tank above the water heater instead of off to the side? Also is that heat trap 6" drop before the expansion tank required?
Best Answer
They make heat trap valves, which come already installed on some water heaters. You could use those instead of the pipe loops, then you can route the pipe however you like. You should be able to find a set of heat trap valves for ~$10.
Also, there may be alternative installation diagrams in the manufacturer's installation instructions.
Expansion tanks can be installed up, down, or on their side. However, if they're installed on their side, support is required.