Mastering Well Pressure Tanks: A Comprehensive Guide

Introduction

Well pressure tanks play a vital role in maintaining consistent water pressure in homes and commercial buildings that rely on private wells. Understanding how these tanks work and how to maintain them properly is crucial for ensuring a reliable water supply. This comprehensive guide will provide you with everything you need to know about well pressure tanks.

What is a Well Pressure Tank?

A well pressure tank is a sealed vessel that stores a reserve of pressurized water. It works in conjunction with a submersible or jet pump to maintain a constant water pressure in the plumbing system.

How it Works:

1. When water is drawn from the well, the pump fills the tank with pressurized water.
2. The pressure inside the tank forces water into the plumbing system, creating a consistent flow.
3. As water is used, the pressure in the tank drops, triggering the pump to turn on and refill it.

Types of Well Pressure Tanks

There are two main types of well pressure tanks:

1. Bladder Tanks:

• Have a rubber bladder inside the tank that separates the water from the air.
• Typically have a larger capacity (20-80 gallons) and are more resistant to waterlogging.

2. Diaphragm Tanks:

• Use a flexible diaphragm to separate the water from the air.
• More compact (12-30 gallons) and have a lower price point.

Choosing the Right Size

The size of the well pressure tank you need depends on the demand for water, the flow rate of the pump, and the depth of the well. Generally, larger tanks are better for high water demand, low flow rates, and deep wells.

Guideline:
* Small homes: 20-40 gallons
* Medium homes: 40-60 gallons
* Large homes: 60-80 gallons

Installation and Maintenance

Installation:

• Install the tank in a dry, accessible location near the pump.
• Use flexible connections to avoid stress on the tank and plumbing.
• Set the pressure switch to the desired range (typically 30-50 PSI).

Maintenance:

• Check the pressure regularly: Adjust the pressure switch if necessary.
• Inspect the tank for leaks or damage: Replace any damaged parts promptly.
• Drain the tank annually: This removes sediment and chlorine buildup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Oversizing the tank: Can lead to excessive cycling and pump wear.
• Undersizing the tank: May not provide enough water storage and cause pressure fluctuations.
• Not draining the tank: Can lead to corrosion and premature failure.
• Ignoring pressure switch problems: Can result in over- or under-pressurized water supply.
• Not using flexible connections: Can cause stress and damage to the tank.

Pros and Cons of Well Pressure Tanks

Pros:

• Consistent water pressure: Eliminates pressure fluctuations and ensures a steady flow.
• Reduced pump wear: Pre-pressurized water reduces the load on the pump.
• Extended pump lifespan: By reducing pump cycling, tanks help extend the life of the pump.

Cons:

• Cost: Can be more expensive than smaller, non-pressurized tanks.
• Space requirements: Larger tanks require sufficient space for installation.
• Maintenance: Regular inspection and drainage are necessary for optimal performance.

Troubleshooting Well Pressure Tank Issues

Problem: Low water pressure

• Check the pressure switch and adjust it if necessary.
• Inspect the tank for leaks.
• Drain the tank to remove sediment.

Problem: Cycling pump

• Check the pressure switch setting.
• Inspect the tank for waterlogging (replace the bladder or diaphragm if necessary).
• Check for leaks in the plumbing system.

Problem: Air in the water

• Inspect the tank for leaks.
• Drain the tank to remove air pockets.
• Install an air eliminator on the pump or tank.

Stories and Lessons Learned

Story 1:

• A homeowner had a small, non-pressurized tank that caused constant pressure fluctuations.
• They installed a larger well pressure tank, which solved the problem and provided a more reliable water supply.

Lesson: Choose the right size tank for your water demand and well depth.

Story 2:

• A tank failed prematurely due to excessive cycling.
• The homeowner had neglected to drain the tank, which led to sediment buildup and waterlogging.

Lesson: Drain the tank annually to prevent premature failure.

Story 3:

• A homeowner ignored a faulty pressure switch, which caused the tank to over-pressurize.
• The resulting pressure surge damaged the plumbing fixtures and caused a leak.

Lesson: Check the pressure switch regularly and adjust it as needed.

Call to Action

If you rely on a private well for your water supply, installing and maintaining a well pressure tank is essential for a reliable and efficient water system. By following the tips and guidance provided in this comprehensive guide, you can ensure that your tank provides you with years of trouble-free operation.

Additional Resources

• Water Well Pressure Tank Guide
• International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials (IAPMO)
• National Ground Water Association (NGWA)

Tables

Table 1: Tank Types and Applications

Table 2: Tank Size Recommendations

Table 3: Troubleshooting Guide