While most homes in the United States are connected to a city water supply, there are still millions of people that rely on wells for their water. If you're one of these millions of people, you use a well pressure tank to get water into your home. Unfortunately, well pressure tanks are subject to a number of potential problems that can put your home's water system at risk.
Well pressure tanks work extremely hard and in dirty conditions. As such, they have a finite lifespan of anywhere from 5 to 15 years. Luckily, there are a number of signs indicating pressure tank problems, including reduced water pressure, dirty water, constant pressure switch cycling, high energy bills, strange noises, and more.
If you notice any of these pressure tank symptoms, it's time to invest in a well pressure tank repair or replacement. However, some of these issues are easier to spot than others, and it's important to replace your pressure tank before it completely gives out. Otherwise, you'll be left without water until a plumber can come to your home and perform the replacement.
The Role of Well Pressure Tanks
Well pressure tanks, also known as bladder pressure tanks, function alongside well pumps to deliver water to your home. If the well pressure tank isn't functioning properly, water supply to your home will be disrupted. Here's why:
1. With a well water system, water resides underground far below the lowest point in your home.
2. A well pump pumps water from the well reservoir into a well pressure tank inside your home.
3. The water inside the tank is kept at high pressure using air.
4. When you turn on a faucet or spigot in your home, the air pressure forces water out of the tank and to its destination.
Common Reasons Well Pressure Tanks Give Out
There are several things that can go wrong with a well pressure tank, causing it to give out. While wear and tear due to old age and frequent use is normal, here are some things that can speed it up and cut your tank's lifespan short.
• You start using more water than normal, which means the tank has to work harder.
• There are leaks in and around the tank, resulting in corrosion and rust.
• There is an air blockage in the tank or air valve, resulting in issues.
• Your tank is plugged with mud, dirt, or debris, causing the tank to have to work too hard.
• The water pressure in your home is too low, which means the well pressure tank has to work harder to maintain water pressure.
Signs Your Well Pressure Tank is Failing
If your well pressure tank isn't working properly, there will be several warning signs indicating its demise.
Fluctuating Water Pressure
One of the first signs of well pressure tank problems is fluctuating or inadequate water pressure. This happens because water and air aren't mixing correctly inside the tank, which means there isn't always enough air pressure to get water to where it needs to go.
Fluctuating water pressure can also be because of an issue with the pressure gauge. In addition to fluctuating water pressure, you'll also notice that your well pump turns on and off more often than normal. This is because the pressure gauge isn't doing its job of providing the right amount of water to air, resulting in frequent cycling.
Dirty or Rusty Water
Another telltale sign that it's time to replace your well pressure tank is if your water starts to come out as a dirty or rusty color. This happens because well water is notoriously dirty, which means dirt, sand, and dust will slowly accumulate on the bottom of your tank. Over time, this sediment adds up and makes it impossible for you to have clean water.
High Water Bills
If your water pressure tank is starting to fail, you will also begin seeing higher energy bills. The reason for this is because your pressure tank is having a hard time regulating pressure and has to work harder than normal to do so. As a result, you'll have higher water and electric bills.
Waterlogged Pressure Tank
You're probably thinking that since a water pressure tank is full of water all the time it shouldn't be a problem if it's waterlogged. Unfortunately, a waterlogged tank means that there's too much water and not enough air in the tank bladder. It also means that the tank bladder has ruptured and there's no longer a separation between the air chamber and water.
As a result, water pressure drops and your well pump switches on and off frequently, causing high energy bills and additional issues. As such, you must replace the water tank, as a waterlogged pressure tank is irreparable.
Strange Noises Coming From the Tank
Another telltale sign that your water pressure tank is giving out is if you hear strange noises coming from it. The most common of these noises is a loud thump or bang when you turn water on and off. This is known as hydraulic shock and indicates that your water pressure is too high, which is usually because of a faulty tank.
Visible Wear and Tear
Finally, if you begin to notice visible wear and tear, such as corrosion and leaks on the tank and its connecting pipes, it's time to replace your pressure tank.
The Age of Your Tank
Lastly, it's important to consider the age of your well pressure tank. If you notice any of the issues above and your tank is in that 5 to 15 year old range, it's likely time to replace it. Issues with your well pump or pressure tank can often be repaired if the equipment is less than five years old. However, if it's more than five years old and is displaying multiple warning symptoms, replacing it is the better option.
The Importance of a Prompt Repair or Replacement
Unless you want to be without water in your home, it's essential to promptly repair or replace your water pressure tank when it's having problems. The good news is that you can replace water pressure tanks on your own, as long as you have the right tools and materials. You can get all the water pressure tank materials you need, including a new tank, from PVC Fittings Online!