Can a Pressure Tank Be Repaired?

What is Included in a Pressure Tank?

You depend on water for bathing, cleaning, cooking, and drinking, so professional help like pressure tank repairs may be needed when problems arise with your well system. Because of this, you should be familiar with the main components of your well. These include: 

• The Casing: This is a tube installed in the ground. It contains a well pump and a pipe that moves water up to the ground’s surface. The casing also prevents the hole from collapsing while keeping contaminants out of the water supply. 
• The Cap: Arranged at the top of the casing, this component keeps rainwater and small critters out of the well. A screened vent on the cap also keeps insects out. 
• The Pump: This component pulls water from the ground and pushes it into your home. The well pump is submersible, so it is installed inside the well casing several feet underground to operate quietly. 
• The Pressure Tank: This is a 3 to 4-foot tall cylinder component located in the home to store water and distribute it with even pressure. It also provides additional storage for wells of low yield, with a pressure switch that cycles the pump on and off, and when any parts of this component malfunction, pressure tank repairs are an absolute must.
• The Pitless Adapter: This fitting is attached to the well casing. It is buried underground approximately 4 feet and routes the water supply line from the pump into the home. 
• The Screen: This component is attached to the casing at the bottom of the well. It keeps gravel and sand out but allows groundwater to enter, though it isn’t necessary in bedrock. 
• The Wellhead: This component is typically around 12” above ground level, covering the well. 

What is the lifespan of a pressure tank?

Water quality is a critical factor in the lifespan of the pressure tank. If your home has a water supply with the proper-sized pressure tank, the average lifespan can be up to 15 years. 

Generally, a low-quality pressure tank will have a maximum lifespan of 5 years, and pressure tank repairs are often more expensive than replacing the tank. The more expensive the pressure tank, the longer its lifespan, up to 30 years, maybe longer, with proper maintenance and professional pressure tank repairs as needed. 

How do you know if a pressure tank is damaged?

Without a pressure tank, the water that comes into a home from a water well would be nothing more than a spritz. You wouldn’t be able to shower, wash clothing, or dishes. The pressure tank is essential for a home to have sufficient water pressure, and when it malfunctions, pressure tank repairs are a must. 

A common problem with a water well’s pressure tank is the bladder ruptures, allowing water to enter the system. As air enters the tank, it dissolves into the water and dissipates, and the tank can’t maintain proper water pressure. The following are six other possible problems you may experience that require pressure tank repairs: 

• 1. Electric Bill Increase – An increase in the electric bill is a subtle indication that you may need pressure tank repairs. When the pressure tank becomes waterlogged in the upper chamber, it can cause the pressure pump to cycle more frequently.
• 2. Fluctuating Pressure Gauge – You can mount the pressure gauge on the pressure tank. Watching the gauge fluctuate signals a faulty pressure tank and indicates you need repairs. 
• 3. Faucet Spurting Air – When the pressure tank bladder ruptures, air mixes with the water, resulting in air coming out of the faucet with the water because of uneven pressure.
• 4. Strange Sounds—When the bladder ruptures, the pressure switch responds with fluctuating pressure. You should hear repeated clicking if the gauge doesn’t indicate an issue. 
• 5. Water Pressure Loss—If you have a complete loss of water pressure, check the circuit breaker first to ensure it hasn’t tripped. If you have installed a water filtration system, check the filter. It may need to be cleaned or changed. 

Keep The Water Coming! 

Following all recommendations for maintaining and upkeep of a water well is essential. Doing so will give you better-quality water, a longer lifespan for your water well, and the ability to make any needed repairs, especially pressure tank repairs. If you need pressure tank repair in Victorville, CA or any nearby cities, the team at Inland Pro Plumbing is available to provide you with the services you require. 

Give us a call today at 760-951-1721 to learn more about the assistance we can provide. Our professionals are always available to provide you with the services you need, whether you are seeking the installation of a new well system or you need repairs.