Water lines or fittings expansion tank atop water heater, hints from a home inspector
Water lines or fittings expansion tank atop water heater corroded or leaking: plumbing occurs when water is heated during non-use periods. The installation of a pressure reducing valve (prv, tp, pt, tpr, pr or rv valve, depending on what part of the world you live in), check valve or back flow preventer "closes" the water system, leaving water with no room for expansion. Many local codes now require a closed system, to prevent backflow into the water main. Thermal expansion in a closed plumbing system can be damaging, dangerous and costly. Its effects include damage to water heater connections, gas water heater flue tubes, pumps serving washers and dishwashers, leaking faucets, "weeping" of water through the water heater t&p safety valve, and noisy water hammer in the pipes.
The above information was provided by TWI Systems Copyright 1995-2007 1-800-553-5660. TWI is a fantastic company to deal with!