There are a few important components that play a role in the operations of any water well system, and the water well pressure tank is a top example. What exactly is a water well pressure tank, why does water well tank pressure matter for your well, and what else do you need to know about this important component?
At Mike Zimmerman Well Service LLC, we’re proud to offer a wide range of water well service around Utah, from water well pump repair to water well pressure tank services and more. Here are some basics on what pressure tanks are, what they do, and why water well tank pressure and related factors are important for well operations.
What is a Water Well Pressure Tank?
When we talk about well pressure tanks, we’re referring to the tanks used in water well systems to store and provide pressurized water. These tanks are typically made of steel or fiberglass and come in various sizes, shapes, and configurations depending on the needs of your specific well system.
In general, they work by using a diaphragm or bladder to create a sealed air chamber within the tank that helps regulate water pressure. When water is required in your system, the compressed air pushes the water out of the tank and into your plumbing system. As water is used, the pressure in the tank decreases, causing a switch to activate and signal to the pump that it needs to turn on and refill the tank. This process continues as needed to maintain consistent water pressure in your home or building.
But why exactly do you need a well pressure tank for your well system? Well, there are several reasons why these tanks are an essential component of any water well system:
Regulating Pressure
One of the chief functions of a well pressure tank is to regulate the water pressure in your plumbing system. Without a tank, the pump would constantly turn on and off every time you turned on a faucet or flushed a toilet. This can cause significant wear and tear on your pump, leading to more frequent repairs or replacements. The pressure tank helps to maintain consistent pressure throughout your plumbing system, reducing strain on the pump and extending its lifespan.
Storing Water
Another important function of a well pressure tank is to store water for use during times when the pump may not be able to keep up with demand. For example, if you have guests staying over and using more water than usual, the pressure tank ensures that there is enough water stored to maintain consistent pressure without putting additional strain on the pump.
Additionally, some pressure tanks come equipped with a low-water cutoff switch, which shuts off the pump when the tank is running low on water. This prevents the pump from running dry and potentially causing damage.
Signs of Water Well Pressure Tank Issues
There are a few signs that may indicate the presence of an issue with your water well pressure tank:
- Consistent low pressure: If you notice that your water pressure is consistently lower than usual, it could be a sign that your pressure tank is not functioning properly.
- Rapid cycling: If your well pump is turning on and off quickly, this could indicate a problem with the pressure tank. This can also lead to decreased water pressure.
- Air in pipes: When air gets into the water system, it can cause sputtering or spurting from faucets. This may be a sign of an issue with the pressure tank’s air volume control or a ruptured bladder.
- Noisy operation: Unusual noises coming from the well pump or pressure tank may signal a problem with the equipment.
If you notice any of these signs or are experiencing any other issues with your well pump and pressure tank, it is important to address them promptly. Neglecting these problems can lead to further damage and potentially expensive repairs.
Regular maintenance of your well pump and pressure tank can also help prevent these issues from occurring. It is recommended to have a professional inspect and service your well system every 1-2 years.
And if you’re having regular water well pressure tank issues, our team at Mike Zimmerman Well Service, LLC is here to help. We have years of experience dealing with all types of well pump and pressure tank problems, and we offer reliable and efficient services to keep your system running smoothly. Contact us today for this or any of our water well services around Utah!
