What Should The Pressure Be In A Well Pressure Tank

What Should the Pressure Be in a Well Pressure Tank?

Maintaining the correct pressure in your well pressure tank is crucial for ensuring consistent water pressure throughout your home and preventing premature wear and tear on your well pump. This article will guide you through understanding the ideal pressure settings and troubleshooting common issues. Knowing the optimal pressure will save you time, money, and potential plumbing headaches.

Understanding Well Pressure Tank Components and Function

Before diving into pressure settings, let's briefly review how a well pressure tank works. The tank comprises a bladder (usually made of butyl rubber) inside a steel shell. This bladder stores water, and the air pressure within the tank's shell regulates the water pressure in your home's plumbing system. When the pressure drops below a set point, the well pump activates, filling the tank and increasing the pressure.

Determining the Ideal Pressure: Cut-in and Cut-out Settings

There are two key pressure settings to understand:

• Cut-in Pressure: This is the lower pressure setting. When the pressure in the tank drops to this level, the well pump turns ON to refill the tank.
• Cut-out Pressure: This is the higher pressure setting. When the tank reaches this pressure, the well pump turns OFF.

The difference between these two pressures (the pressure switch differential) is typically between 20 and 40 PSI (pounds per square inch). A common setting is a cut-in pressure of 30 PSI and a cut-out pressure of 50 PSI. However, the ideal pressure for your system depends on several factors, including:

• Water pressure needs: Homes with multiple fixtures or high water usage might need a higher pressure setting.
• Well pump capacity: The capacity of your pump will influence how quickly it can replenish the tank. A smaller pump might need a smaller pressure differential.
• Tank size: Larger tanks can store more water and thus accommodate a larger pressure differential.

How to Check Your Well Pressure Tank Pressure

You'll typically find a pressure gauge on your well pressure tank. This gauge displays the current pressure within the tank. To check:

1. Locate the pressure gauge: It's usually a small dial mounted on the tank itself.
2. Read the pressure: Note the PSI reading. This reading should ideally fall somewhere between your cut-in and cut-out pressures.

Adjusting Your Well Pressure Tank Pressure

If the pressure is outside the ideal range, you might need to adjust the pressure switch. This is usually a small device located near the pressure tank. Warning: Adjusting the pressure switch requires some mechanical aptitude. If you're not comfortable doing this yourself, it's best to call a qualified plumber.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

• Low Water Pressure: This could be due to low air pressure in the tank, a faulty pressure switch, a failing pump, or even leaks in your plumbing.
• Inconsistent Water Pressure: This often indicates a problem with the pressure switch or the bladder inside the tank.
• Pump Running Constantly: This might signify a leak in your plumbing system or a problem with the pressure switch.

Maintaining Your Well Pressure Tank

Regularly checking your well pressure tank's pressure and addressing any issues promptly can significantly extend its lifespan. Remember that proper maintenance contributes to the longevity of your entire well system. Consider having a professional inspect your system periodically to prevent larger, more costly repairs.

By understanding and maintaining the correct pressure in your well pressure tank, you can ensure reliable water pressure, optimize your well pump's performance, and prevent costly repairs. Remember to consult a professional if you encounter any problems you cannot resolve yourself.