Moving into a home with a water well can take some adjustment. The first step in understanding a residential water system is to familiarize yourself with all of its parts. The pressure tank, for instance, supplies water to your plumbing. Use this guide to better understand its operation and how to spot a malfunction.

What Does a Pressure Tank Do?

In a residential water system, the well pump delivers water to the pressure tank, which holds it until water is used in the home.

When your fixtures draw water from the tank, the pressure inside it drops until it hits the activation point that tells the pump to replenish the water. This typically happens when the pressure reaches between 30 and 40 pounds per square inch (psi). The pump turns off once the tank has returned to the normal pressure level, which is between 50 and 60 psi for most homes. 

What Are Some Common Pressure Tank Problems?

When a residential water system’s pressure tank has a problem it will affect the function of the pump, a pump that cycles often or has long run times, may indicate a leak in the water system, or a pump problem. A water logged pressure tank will cause a rapid cycling of the pump, i.e. home owner would notice pressure switch clicking rapidly or fluctuating water pressure, which left unchanged, will lead to pump damage or failure. A diaphram type tank either has a ruptured bladder, or the loss of the air charge. A captive air tank may have a plugged bleedback, a non working check valve or a plugged snifter valve.

If you come across an issue with your water well or pump, contact the professionals at Anchorage Well & Pump Service, Inc. for quality solutions. For over 40 years, they have provided leak detection and well system repair for homeowners and Public Water Systems throughout Alaska. Their technicians are fully licensed, bonded, and insured, and know how to handle any well, pump, or water storage system. Call (907) 243-0740 to discuss a problem, or visit their website to learn more about their services.