How do I check the pressure in the tank?
- With the pump breaker OFF, drain tank of all water by opening a faucet in the system.
- Remove protective air valve cap. If you find that water is leaking from the valve you may have a ruptured bladder and the tank will need to be replaced.
- Check pressure in the tank with your pressure gauge.
Click here to see RC Worst YouTube video: How to Check and Adjust Pressure Tanks
What pressure should the tank be set at?
For a conventional well water system operating on a pressure switch, the pressure should be 2 psi below the pressure switch pump cut-in setting.
How do I change the pressure?
- Release or add air as necessary to make the pressure 2 psi below the pressure switch pump cut-in setting. For example, if you have a pressure switch setting of 40/60 psi, your pressure measured at the top of the tank should read 38 psi. Air can be added with a compressor or bicycle pump.
- Replace protective air valve cap.
What size tank do I need?
The size of the tank is determined by three factors:
- Pump flow rate in gallons per minute (GPM)
- Desired run time of the pump. Always shoot for a minimum one minute run time!
- Cut-in and cut-out psi (pounds per square inch) of the pressure switch. The pump turns on when the system reaches the low pressure cut-in and off when the high pressure cut-off is reached.
Once you have these 3 factors you can then determine the drawdown capacity needed and the tank size required to achieve that amount. Also, remember that bigger is always better.
Click here to read our blog: Sizing a Pressure Tank Correctly
Why do I need a pressure tank?
A pressure tank will greatly reduce the risk of premature pump failure. If you fail to invest in the correct size pressure tank, you can short cycle your pump. Short cycling is a term used to describe when your pump is turning on and off too frequently. It increases energy use and can cause premature failure of your pump as it builds up excessive heat.
What brand of pressure tank do you recommend?
We sell Well-X-Trol brand pressure tanks.They feature the highest pressure rating, the thickest diaphragm, antimicrobial liner and the best warranty for years of trouble free performance.
Click here to see R.C. Worst YouTube video: Why WellXTrol is the BEST Water Well Pressure Tank
What is the warranty?
Well-X-Trol pressure tanks are backed by an industry leading 7 year warranty.
How long does a pressure tank last?
A typical pressure tank can last 10-15+ years. However, just as the case with many water well products that you buy today, the quality of the tank will have the most influence on the longevity of your tank.
How do I know if my tank is bad?
If water is leaking from the top of the tank and/or the tank is not holding pressure it is bad.
Why is there water coming out of the top?
If water is coming out of the tank it means that the bladder has failed and it is time to replace the tank.
Can I connect multiple pressure tanks?
Yes, multiple pressure tanks will give you more drawdown capacity and like I said above, the bigger the better!
Can I install a tank outside?
A pressure tank should not be operated in a setting with freezing temperatures or where the temperature can exceed 100°F. They should not be installed in direct sunlight as excessive sun heat may cause distortion or other damage to nonmetallic parts.
Click on the links below to see RC Worst YouTube videos:
How to Check and Adjust Pressure Tanks
How to Size a Pressure Tank
Pressure Tank: Operation and Components