As a homeowner with a well for your water supply, a pressure tank helps regulate the water pressure and flow from the well to your home's plumbing fixtures. This ensures consistency in water flow. Like any other plumbing fixture, the pressure tank is vulnerable to wear and tear, which can lead to failure. There are a few common problems that you might encounter with your pressure tank.
Waterlogged Tank
The pressure tank's proper operation depends on a balance of water and air in the tank to maintain adequate pressure for water flow. A waterlogged pressure tank is one that has too much water in the tank and not enough air to pressurize that water. Some of the signs of a waterlogged pressure tank include issues such as fluctuating water pressure, a full pressure tank, and even short-cycling of your well pump.
Faulty Pressure Switch
The pressure switch regulates the flow of water into the pressure tank based on the water level and pressure within the tank itself. A faulty pressure switch can cause your well pump to frequently power-cycle, and it may not engage the pump when the pressure drops below the pre-set level in the tank. Not only that, but a faulty pressure switch may not turn the pump off when the tank reaches the predetermined pressure level, either. You can resolve this with a new pressure switch installation.
Tank Leaks
Every pressure tank has vulnerabilities. There are pressure valves, intake lines, and output lines with connections that can fail. If your pressure tank is seeping or leaking from any connection point, it's important that you address it as soon as possible. Sometimes, you need to replace the tank itself while other leak issues are resolvable with a fresh seal around the joint that's seeping. Be mindful of where the leak is coming from and whether it threatens the integrity of the tank itself before you make a decision.
Visible Corrosion
Visible corrosion on the seams of your pressure tank or the joints of the plumbing lines should be cause for concern. When you have high mineral content in your water, it can cause deterioration of the metal components on the tank. You'll have to have the pressure tank replaced in this case. Add a water softener to reduce the risk of recurrence.
These are some of the most important considerations when you're dealing with any kind of pressure tank problem. The more proactive you are about recognizing the signs, the less risk you face of tank failure. For more information on well pumps, contact a professional near you.