Installing a pressure tank for your water well system is an important step to ensure you have constant water pressure in your home. A pressure tank acts as a storage reservoir and keeps your pump from having to turn on every time you use water. This saves wear and tear on the pump and provides smooth, uninterrupted water flow. Installing a pressure tank is something a moderately skilled DIYer can handle, but you need to follow the proper steps for setup and configuration. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk through the entire process of choosing, installing, and adjusting a pressure tank for optimal performance.
Page Contents
- 1 What is a Well Pressure Tank and How Does it Work?
- 2 Types of Well Pressure Tanks
- 3 Sizing a Pressure Tank
- 4 Where to Install a Pressure Tank
- 5 How to Install a Pressure Tank
- 6 Testing and Troubleshooting the System
- 7 Frequently Asked Questions
- 7.1 How long should a well pressure tank last?
- 7.2 Where is the pressure switch on a well system?
- 7.3 How do you increase water pressure in a well system?
- 7.4 Why does my water pressure fluctuate? Fluctuating pressure is usually caused by a failing pressure tank or switch. Check the pre-charge, replace the tank if waterlogged, and clean or replace a worn pressure switch. An undersized tank can also cause pressure fluctuations. Can I install a pressure tank myself?
- 8 Conclusion
What is a Well Pressure Tank and How Does it Work?
A pressure tank is a storage container that’s partially filled with air and partially filled with water. It’s connected to the water supply line between the well pump and the home. Here’s how it works:
Pressurizing Stage
When the pump first turns on, it sends water into the tank, compressing the air pocket inside. This pressurized air pocket acts like a cushion or shock absorber. It exerts downward pressure on the water to keep it under pressure. This pressurized water is then available anytime a faucet is opened.
Draw Down Stage
As water leaves the tank when a faucet is opened, the pressure drops. At a certain preset low-pressure point, the pressure switch turns the pump back on to repressurize the tank. This cycle repeats each time water is used.
The benefit is the pump doesn’t have to turn on every time you use a little bit of water. This saves electricity and extends pump life. The pressurized tank delivers water on demand without making the pump work as hard.
Types of Well Pressure Tanks
There are two main types of pressure tanks used in residential water systems – bladder tanks and galvanized steel tanks.
Bladder Tanks
Bladder tanks contain an internal rubber bladder that separates the air and water inside the tank. As the pump sends water into the tank, the bladder flexes inward to compress the air pocket. When the pump shuts off, the bladder pushes back out as water leaves the tank.
Pros:
– No waterlogging since air and water separated
– Flexible bladder provides smoother pressure delivery
– Less prone to corrosion issues
– Wide range of sizes available
Cons:
– Bladder can fail over time and need replacement
– More expensive than galvanized tanks
Galvanized Steel Tanks
Galvanized steel tanks have an open internal design allowing water and air to mix together. These tanks rely on special dip tubes to deliver only water to the home plumbing system.
Pros:
– Simple, durable steel construction
– Lower upfront cost than bladder tanks
Cons:
– Waterlogging can occur over time, reducing performance
– Prone to interior rust and corrosion issues
– Fewer size options than bladder tanks
Overall, bladder tanks are superior for their durability, flexibility, and corrosion resistance. But galvanized steel tanks can be a budget-friendly option in some cases.
Sizing a Pressure Tank
Choosing the proper size pressure tank is important for optimal water pressure and minimal pump cycling. Follow these guidelines for sizing:
– Size based on well pump output – General rule is 5-10x pump gallons per minute
– 2-3x storage capacity of pressure switch setting
– For 30/50 switch, size for 60-100 gallons
– Larger for distant fixtures, irrigation systems
– Smaller for close grouping of fixtures
For example, with a 10 GPM well pump and 30/50 pressure switch:
– Minimum tank size: 10 x 5 = 50 gallons
– Maximum: 10 x 10 = 100 gallons
– 2-3x switch capacity: 2 x 60 = 120 gallons
3 x 100 = 300 gallons
So 120-300 gallon tank capacity recommended in this scenario. Bladder tanks require less capacity than galvanized for same output.
Where to Install a Pressure Tank
The best location for your pressure tank is in the water supply line between the well pump and home plumbing system. This allows the tank to pressurize and store water as soon as it leaves the pump.
Key installation tips:
– Install as close to pressure switch as possible
– Keep tank higher than well pump – this allows gravity drainage back to well
– Install vertically upright for proper air pocket function
– Allow sufficient space for service access to tank
– Insulate tank in cold climates to prevent freezing
Make sure pipes are properly supported and the tank cannot shift out of alignment. Check for leaks after installation.
How to Install a Pressure Tank
Once you’ve selected the appropriate pressure tank, follow these steps for proper installation:
Step 1: Turn Off Power and Water
Start by switching off power to the well pump at the circuit breaker. Then turn off the water shut-off valve between the pressure tank and house. Open nearby faucets to drain pressure from the system.
Step 2: Disconnect and Remove Old Tank
Unscrew the pipe connections to the pressure tank inlet and outlet. Have a bucket ready to catch any water still in the pipes. Carefully disconnect pipes from the old tank and remove it.
Step 3: Prepare New Tank
For galvanized tanks, remove the drain plug and fill about 1/3 full with water initially.
For bladder tanks, fully inflate bladder per manufacturer instructions, typically to 2 PSI below cut-in pressure.
Step 4: Install New Tank
Place the tank in the desired location and orient it vertically. Reconnect the pipes to the tank inlet and outlet. Make sure fittings are tight and properly threaded.
Step 5: Reconnect Power and Water
With all plumbing reconnected securely, slowly turn the main water valve back on. Check for leaks and tighten any loose joints. Bleed air from lines by opening taps until water runs steady. Finally, restore power to the pump circuit.
Step 6: Adjust Pressure Settings
Refer to the manufacturer’s instructions to adjust the pressure switch cut-in and cut-out pressure settings to optimal levels for your tank size and household needs. This completes the installation.
Testing and Troubleshooting the System
After installing the new tank, test operation by opening several faucets and flushing toilets in the home. The pump should run and repressurize the system with adequate flow.
If you experience any issues like low/surging pressure, pump cycling too frequently, or leaks, here are some steps to troubleshoot:
– Inspect for leaks and tighten any loose fittings
– Drain tank and check pre-charge pressure – recharge bladder or air pocket if needed
– Clean or replace pressure switch if contacts are stuck
– Check for cracks in the bladder or tank corrosion issues
– Make sure pipes are sized appropriately and free of blockages
– Increase pressure switch differential if pump cycles too frequently
Getting a new pressure tank professionally installed is recommended for most homeowners. But following this guide, a reasonably handy DIYer can install their own tank and adjust it for smooth water delivery. Just take care to size, locate, and configure the tank properly based on the well pump output. With a quality tank installed correctly, you’ll enjoy reliable water pressure for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long should a well pressure tank last?
With proper maintenance, a quality bladder tank should last 10-15 years, while galvanized tanks average 5-7 years. Check pre-charge yearly and watch for signs of corrosion or bladder failure.
Where is the pressure switch on a well system?
The pressure switch is connected to the water line near the pressure tank. It has an air-filled diaphragm that actuates a switch to turn the pump on and off at preset pressures.
How do you increase water pressure in a well system?
Check the air pre-charge in the tank and pressure switch settings. To increase household water pressure, raise the cut-in pressure on the switch. You can also install a larger pressure tank.