When it comes to replacing a well pressure tank, there are several variables to consider.
If you think it’s time to replace yours, you will need to make sure the new tank is the right size which will improve the life expectancy and save you money down the line.
So what do you need to consider to pick the right well pressure tank for your home? Read on to find out.
What Is a Well Pressure Tank?
First things first, what is a well pressure tank and what does it do?
Well pressure tanks are responsible for controlling the appropriate pressure of the water flowing into your home. Every aspect of it from the faucets in the kitchen to the flushing of a toilet is controlled by a well water pressure tank.
Every time you need to draw water for showers, baths, sinks, and toilets requires the well pressure tank to switch on, and doing this too frequently in short bursts can shorten the life of the pressure tank by a process known as short-cycling.
What Size Well Pressure Tank Do I Need?
Sizing the well pressure tank you need for your home comes down to three simple factors. The flow rate, the minimum runtime, and the pressure switch setting.
The flow rate is exactly how many gallons per minute (GPM) your well pump pressure tank produces.
The minimum runtime is related to the amount of water the tank stores and how quickly it draws it down. With this in mind, the minimum runtime you require should be multiplied by the flow rate (GPM) will give you a good idea of what size you’ll need.
The pressure switch setting is directly related to water pressure in the tank. It determines the pressure at which the tank turns on to start filling and when it stops.
There are three standard pressure switch settings for pressure tanks which are 20/40, 30/50, and 40/60. This pound per square inch or psi number will factor into the drawdown rate of water your tank can produce.
Which Do I Pick?
If you have these numbers on hand, you can find out the exact size tank you will need for your property, but if not, we also have a general rule of thumb to follow.
The drawdown capacity of a tank is the least amount of water that can be drawn from the system with or stored between pump shut-off and pump restart.
If you need a tank with less than 10 GPM, we recommend 1 gallon of drawdown per 1 GPM. Between 10 and 20 GPM, you will need 1.5 gallons of drawdown per 1 GPM of flow, and above 20 GPM will require 2 gallons of drawdown per 1 GPM.
Now Pick Out a Tank
Choosing a well pressure tank that is the right size for your home is important. Use this guide to help you learn what your exact needs are and return as often as you need to.
For more about how you can improve and maintain your home, check out the blog.
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