June 11/2022
How Does a Water Pressure Tank Work?
If you are running a private water system for your property, then you probably have a water pressure tank installed somewhere on your lot. While homeowners may regularly see that water pressure tank regularly, they might not know how the unit works. Don’t worry. Your friends here at Mr. Rooter Plumbing of Central New Jersey are ready to break it down for you. Understanding how the water pressure tank works can help you detect when the water pressure tank is acting up and needs repair. If you do need plumbing repair service for your water pressure tank, then feel free to call Mr. Rooter Plumbing of Central New Jersey. Our dedicated plumbers are always happy and ready to help.
How Does It Work?
A water pressure tank works in conjunction with your water supply, generally a well, to get water to your plumbing fixtures. Here’s how it works.
The well pump delivers water to the water pressure tank. When water is pumped into the tank containing air with nowhere to go, both the water and air in the tank are put under pressure. When the water in the tank reaches a specified degree of pressure, generally 40-60 PSI (pounds per square inch), the pump automatically shuts off to prevent damage.
As you turn on your faucets and showerheads, the water leaves the water pressure tank. As a result, the pressure in the tank decreases. When the pressure gets low enough, to around 20 to 40 PSI, the pump starts again.
What’s The Point of a Water Pressure Tank?
You might be asking yourself, "Why involve the water pressure tank when the well pump can get the water out of the well anyway?" There are a few reasons why.
First, the well pump generally does not offer enough pressure to be useful for plumbing fixtures. Many water-using fixtures require at least 10 PSI to operate properly. Appliances such as dishwashers and laundry machines require even more.
Even if the well pump did produce enough pressure, constantly activating and deactivating the well pump will wear out the pump and reduce its life expectancy. The water pressure tank builds up a reserve of pressurized water so that the well pump does not have to start and stop so often.
Finally, the water pressure tank offers a reserve supply of water that you can use during times of high demand. Otherwise, you would probably have a tough time trying to take a shower and run the dishwasher at the same time.
Possible Issues with the Water Pressure Tank
To no surprise, the water pressure tank IS susceptible to damage and failure. One common issue is a leak. If the unit loses air supply, then the pressure will take a hit. Another issue is waterlogging. This is when the unit overfills with water. Again, the consequence is low water pressure.
If you rely on private water and your plumbing fixtures are delivering low water pressure, then call Mr. Rooter Plumbing of Central New Jersey to have your water pressure tank inspected. Our plumbers are experienced, trained, and equipped to resolve that issue the first time around.
