Pressure Tanks
Pump & Tank Installation
Pressure Tanks
Anyone who is getting their water from a private water source on their property knows how important a pressure tank is. Pressure tanks not only maintain the water pressure for the home but also serve as protection for the life of the pump. The pump delivers water into the pressure tank which compresses the air in the tank until it reaches the preset level, which averages 40–60 lbs. psi.
When a faucet is turned on, the air pressure inside the tank forces the water out until the pressure has dropped to the preset level, normally 20–40 psi. Once it reaches this level, the pump turns on to refill the tank to the restored set level. The amount of water that is delivered to the home before the pump turns on is called “the drawdown.”
The size of the pressure tank is determined by the amount of water that the pump can draw in a 1–2 minute time frame. Pressure tanks come in various sizes with small ones being only 10 gallons and larger ones up to 200 gallons. The average home will use a tank that holds about 44 gallons with a 16-gallon drawdown.
Benefits of a Pressure Tank
- Keeps constant water pressure in the home
- Maintains the life of the pump
- Provides instant access to water without turning on the pump
- Reduces stress on the pump
Possible Pressure Tank Problems
Your pressure tank is designed to keep the water pressure at a constant level in the home. Inside the tank is an air bladder that keeps the water and air separated. If this were not operating properly, the pump would turn on and off quickly. When this occurs, it is called “cycling” and will burn your pump out much quicker.
Pumps need to be replaced over time because the bladder fails inside the tank and the air and water mix together.
Best Pressure Tanks
There are many manufacturers that sell pressure tanks, but we prefer Amtrol. Other manufacturers include Flotec, WaterWorker, Wellmate, County Line, Dayton, and Goulds.
Contact All A’s Plumbing to get professional help with pressure tanks and pumps. Are you asking, “What size do I need? Is a larger tank better? What is the lifespan?” We are here to help. Click on our contact form to get in touch.