How to Install a Hot Water Booster Tank to an Existing Boiler
A hot water booster tank can be added to an existing boiler to increase the heating capacity when there is not enough hot water available for heavy usage or to boost the water over a long period. Anyone can add a booster tank to a boiler with careful observation and skillful use of the tools. Does this Spark an idea?
Things You'll Need
- Soft solder
- Propane torch
- Flux
- 1/2-inch copper tubing
- Tubing cutter
- Small hot water tank (electric)
- 1/2-inch elbows
- Emery cloth
Instructions
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Removing Hot Water
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1
Turn off the gas to the main hot water heater and allow the water to cool for several hours.
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2
Close the cold water inlet to the hot water tank.
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3
Drain the hot water tank from the valve at the lowest point on the tank.
Preparing the Tank For Installation
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4
Cut the copper pipe water outlet line from the main hot water tank.
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5
Position the booster tank near the water outlet line.
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6
Connect the outlet of the main hot water tank to the inlet of the booster hot water tank, using the copper pipe and elbows.
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7
Connect the outlet of the booster hot water tank to the hot water pipe going to the house, using the copper pipe and elbows. This is the pipe that was cut.
Soldering
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8
Clean all joints with the emery cloth and add flux to the joints.
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9
Solder all joints using the propane tank.
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10
Check the soldering for leaks. If there are no leaks, open the cold water inlet to the main hot water tank.
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11
Plug in the hot water booster tank. Allow the water to heat up.
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12
Set the hot water thermostat to about 180 F. The hot water is now ready for use.
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1
Tips & Warnings
Use caution to avoid burns when draining the hot water.
Keep lighted flame away from hands and combustible material when soldering.
Conduct a leak test after opening the inlet and outlet valves to the tank.
References
Resources
- Photo Credit Comstock/Comstock/Getty Images
