Ever turned on your faucet only to be greeted by weak, sputtering water? Or perhaps you've noticed your well pump cycling on and off far more frequently than it used to? A waterlogged pressure tank could very well be the culprit. This common problem occurs when the air cushion inside the tank diminishes, leaving it mostly filled with water. This reduces the tank's ability to maintain consistent water pressure, puts undue stress on your well pump, and can even lead to premature pump failure.
Addressing a waterlogged pressure tank promptly can save you from costly repairs and ensure a reliable water supply. By restoring the air cushion, you'll improve water pressure, extend the life of your well pump, and potentially lower your energy bills. In many cases, this is a DIY-friendly fix that can be accomplished with a few simple tools and some basic know-how.
What are the common causes of a waterlogged pressure tank, and how can I get it working like new again?
How do I diagnose if my pressure tank is actually waterlogged?
The most common symptom of a waterlogged pressure tank is short cycling of your well pump. This means the pump turns on and off frequently, even with minimal water usage. You might also experience fluctuating water pressure or a complete lack of water pressure, especially after running water for a short period.
A waterlogged pressure tank essentially loses its air cushion, which is crucial for maintaining consistent water pressure and preventing the pump from overworking. The air bladder, if present, may be ruptured or the air charge has simply dissipated over time. Without this air cushion, the pump has to work harder and more frequently to deliver water, leading to the short cycling described above. Listen closely to your pump. Does it start and stop every few seconds or minutes while a faucet is running? That's a strong indicator. Another check is to tap on the side of the tank from top to bottom. A waterlogged tank will sound "full" or solid all the way down. A properly functioning tank will sound hollower near the top. To confirm waterlogging, you can also perform a pressure test. First, turn off the pump breaker. Then, drain the tank completely by opening a faucet until water stops flowing. Locate the Schrader valve (like a tire valve) on top of the tank. Use a tire pressure gauge to check the air pressure. A healthy tank should have a pre-charge pressure, usually 2 PSI below the pump's cut-in pressure (the pressure at which the pump turns on). If water comes out of the Schrader valve when you press it, the bladder is definitely ruptured and the tank is waterlogged. If there's no air pressure or very low pressure and no water comes out, the air charge has simply leaked and the tank is likely waterlogged.What's the proper air pressure I should set in my waterlogged pressure tank after draining it?
After draining your waterlogged pressure tank, the proper air pressure to set it to is typically 2 PSI below your pump's cut-in pressure. The cut-in pressure is the pressure at which your well pump turns on to refill the tank. If your pump's cut-in pressure is 40 PSI, you should set the air pressure in the tank to 38 PSI.
Setting the correct air pressure is crucial for the efficient and reliable operation of your well system. The air pressure in the tank creates a cushion that allows the pump to run less frequently, extending its lifespan and preventing water hammer (the banging sound caused by sudden changes in water pressure). If the air pressure is too high, the pump will cycle on and off rapidly, known as short cycling, which can damage the pump. If the air pressure is too low, the pump will run constantly, wasting energy and potentially overheating. To determine your pump's cut-in pressure, look for a label on the pressure switch, which is usually located near the pressure tank. The label will indicate the cut-in and cut-out pressure settings (e.g., 40/60 PSI). Use an accurate tire pressure gauge to check the air pressure in the tank after draining it. Connect the gauge to the Schrader valve (similar to a tire valve) located on top of the tank. Use an air compressor to adjust the pressure as needed. Make sure to check the pressure with the pump off and the tank completely drained of water. Following these steps will help ensure your pressure tank functions properly, providing a consistent and reliable water supply while maximizing the lifespan of your well pump.If draining the tank doesn't fix the waterlogging, what are the next steps?
If draining the tank doesn't resolve the waterlogging, the most likely culprits are a faulty air valve (Schrader valve) or a ruptured bladder within the tank. The next steps involve inspecting and potentially replacing the air valve, and if that doesn't work, replacing the entire pressure tank.
First, thoroughly inspect the air valve, typically located at the top of the tank, similar to a car tire valve. Depress the valve core momentarily. If water spurts out instead of air, it's a definitive sign the bladder has failed and the tank needs replacing. If only air comes out, the valve itself might be leaking. You can try tightening the valve core or replacing it with a new one (available at most hardware stores). Be sure to depressurize the tank before attempting to replace the valve core. If replacing the valve doesn't solve the issue, the bladder inside the tank is almost certainly ruptured. While some specialized repair kits exist for certain tank models, bladder replacement is often impractical and potentially unreliable. In most cases, the most cost-effective and reliable solution is to replace the entire pressure tank with a new one of appropriate size for your water system. Ensure the new tank is pre-charged to the correct pressure (typically 2 PSI below the pump's cut-in pressure) before installation. Neglecting this step can significantly shorten the lifespan of the new tank and lead to premature waterlogging issues.Could a faulty well pump be contributing to my waterlogged pressure tank issue?
Yes, a faulty well pump can definitely contribute to a waterlogged pressure tank. If the pump is failing to build sufficient pressure, cycling on and off too frequently, or leaking water back into the well, it can overwhelm the air cushion within the tank, leading to waterlogging.
A well pump's primary job is to deliver water and maintain consistent pressure within the system. If the pump is struggling to perform this task effectively, it directly impacts the pressure tank. For example, a pump with a worn impeller or a failing check valve might not be able to reach the cut-off pressure, causing it to run constantly or cycle rapidly. This constant influx of water without adequate pressure building will force the air out of the tank over time, leaving it saturated with water. Another way a faulty pump can cause problems is if the check valve (usually located at the pump) fails. A faulty check valve allows water to flow back into the well when the pump shuts off. This backflow reduces the pressure in the system, signaling the pressure switch to turn the pump back on. The result is short cycling, and over time, the pressure tank becomes overwhelmed with water and loses its air cushion. You may want to check these:- Pump cycle times (is it short cycling?)
- Water pressure gauge readings (are they fluctuating wildly?)
- The check valve (is it leaking?)
How often should I be checking my pressure tank to prevent waterlogging?
You should check your pressure tank for waterlogging at least every 6 months, and ideally quarterly (every 3 months). Regular checks allow you to catch problems early, preventing significant waterlogging and potential damage to your well pump and water system.
Periodic inspection is key to maintaining a healthy well system. Checking your pressure tank involves a simple "tap test." Gently tap on the side of the tank from top to bottom. A properly functioning tank will sound hollow at the top and solid (full of water) at the bottom. If the tank sounds full from top to bottom, it's likely waterlogged. Additionally, listen closely to your well pump. If it’s short-cycling – turning on and off frequently in short bursts – this is another strong indicator of a waterlogged tank. Beyond the tap test and listening for short-cycling, observe the overall performance of your water system. Fluctuations in water pressure, sputtering faucets, or a noticeable decrease in water pressure can also suggest issues with the pressure tank, including waterlogging. Addressing these issues promptly can save you from costly repairs or even premature pump failure. If you suspect waterlogging, don't delay in inspecting the tank and taking corrective actions, or consulting with a qualified well technician.Is replacing a waterlogged pressure tank a DIY project, or should I hire a plumber?
Replacing a waterlogged pressure tank can be a DIY project for homeowners comfortable with basic plumbing, electrical work, and moderate lifting. However, if you lack experience in these areas or encounter complications such as corroded pipes, inaccessible connections, or uncertainties about sizing and compatibility, it's best to hire a licensed plumber to ensure the job is done safely and correctly.
Deciding whether to DIY or call a plumber depends on your skill level and comfort with the tasks involved. The process includes shutting off the water supply, disconnecting the old tank, draining the system, removing electrical connections (if any), installing the new tank, re-establishing connections, and properly adjusting the air pressure. Incorrect installation can lead to water damage, electrical hazards, or premature tank failure. Furthermore, local plumbing codes might require professional installation in some jurisdictions. Before making a decision, assess your abilities, the complexity of the job, and the potential risks. If you choose to proceed as a DIY project, be sure to research thoroughly, gather all necessary tools and materials, and follow safety precautions meticulously. Conversely, hiring a plumber provides peace of mind, guarantees proper installation, and offers recourse in case of any issues after the replacement.What are the long-term consequences of ignoring a waterlogged pressure tank?
Ignoring a waterlogged pressure tank leads to a cascade of problems, including premature well pump failure due to excessive cycling, increased energy consumption and higher electricity bills, potential damage to plumbing fixtures and appliances, and eventual tank corrosion and system failure, ultimately resulting in costly repairs or complete well system replacement.
Ignoring a waterlogged pressure tank puts undue stress on your well pump. A properly functioning pressure tank stores water under pressure, allowing the pump to run less frequently and for longer durations. When the tank is waterlogged, it lacks the necessary air cushion to maintain pressure, causing the pump to cycle on and off rapidly every time you use water. This "short cycling" generates excessive heat and strain on the pump motor, drastically reducing its lifespan. Over time, the pump will fail prematurely, leaving you without water. Furthermore, the constant on-off cycling of the pump consumes more energy. Each start-up of an electric motor requires a surge of power, so frequent cycling significantly increases your electricity bill. The pressure fluctuations caused by a waterlogged tank can also damage plumbing fixtures such as faucets, showerheads, and toilets. Water heaters, washing machines, and dishwashers are also susceptible to damage from inconsistent water pressure. Moreover, without the air cushion, the tank's interior is constantly exposed to water, accelerating corrosion and potentially leading to leaks or a complete tank rupture. This can cause water damage to your home and necessitate a full system overhaul.And that's it! Hopefully, you've managed to get your pressure tank back in tip-top shape and your water pressure is singing again. Thanks for giving this a read, and don't be a stranger! Come on back anytime you've got a plumbing puzzle you need help solving.