Quck answer
To add air in a well water pressure tank, follow these steps:
1. Turn off the power to the pump.
2. Locate the air valve on top of the tank.
3. Use a tire pressure gauge to check the current air pressure in the tank. It should be 2 PSI less than the pressure switch setting.
4. If the pressure is low, remove the valve cap and add air using an air compressor or a bicycle pump.
5. Recheck the pressure and adjust if necessary.
6. Replace the valve cap and turn on the power to the pump.
7. Monitor the tank periodically to ensure proper pressure levels.
Many homes rely on a private well water tank to supply water to their faucets, showers, and toilets. The tank draws water from the ground and pumps it into the plumbing system at a pressure of 40 to 60 pounds per square inch (psi). However, if the water pressure drops below the desired level, one possible cause could be inefficient air pressure.
Steps for Adding Air to a Pressure Tank
If you want to maintain the efficiency of your water tank, you can easily add air to the system. However, before you start, make sure to turn off the electricity that powers your pump and pressure tank.
If you have a bladder pressure tank, locate the metal air-fill valve in its mechanism, which looks similar to a tire valve. Remove the cap and measure the air pressure in the system using a tire pressure gauge.
Next, find the box that houses the pressure switch and remove its cover. As you fill the tank with air using an air pump or compressor, adjust the switch counterclockwise using a wrench. To increase water pressure in your well, check the gauge for the proper pressure level periodically.
If the default setting is 40, the air pressure in your water tank should be around 38. If your tank is located in an elevated area, calculate the ideal pressure by multiplying the height in feet by 0.433 (h x p = psi).
When you’re finished, cover the water pump pressure switch adjustment and turn on the power.
Adding Air in a Bladderless Tank
If you have a bladderless water pressure tank, you can add air to the tank by completely draining it first via the spigot valve located at the bottom. Use a garden hose to empty out the tank, and once it’s empty, it will be filled with air.
Remove the hose and cover the spigot valve, then turn on the water pump’s power. If the air pressure in the tank drops again, it may indicate a leak in your bladderless tank that needs sealing.
Insurance Coverage for Well Pumps
Most home insurance policies cover water damage caused by a malfunction in the pipes or the plumbing system, including the water pump. However, some damages may not be covered, especially if they’re due to maintenance issues and equipment wear and tear.
To ensure that you have proper coverage, it’s important to get an insurance assessment and discuss the details of your policy with your insurer. You may also want to consider adding optional riders to your policy for additional coverage.
FAQ
1. How often should I add air to my well water pressure tank?
To maintain optimal water pressure in your well water pressure tank, it is recommended to check and add air to the tank at least once a year. However, if you notice a significant drop in water pressure or your tank is constantly cycling on and off, it may be necessary to add air more frequently.
2. What tools do I need to add air to my well water pressure tank?
To add air to your well water pressure tank, you will need a tire pressure gauge, a bicycle pump or an air compressor, and a valve stem tool. These tools will allow you to measure the current air pressure in the tank and add air as needed.
3. How do I add air to my well water pressure tank?
Start by turning off the power to your well pump. Locate the air valve on top of the pressure tank and remove the valve cap using a valve stem tool. Use a tire pressure gauge to check the current air pressure in the tank. If the pressure is below the recommended level, use a bicycle pump or an air compressor to add air through the valve stem. Keep checking the pressure until it reaches the recommended level, then replace the valve cap and turn the power back on.