Pressure Tank Troubleshooting

This “TROUBLESHOOTING” information is intended to guide in the general determination of pump problems and their solutions. Each manufacturer normally provides a description of warranty conditions. Some pump warranties are immediately voided if the unit is disassembled. Be sure to thoroughly read the owner's manual and warranty.

• Incorrect air charge in tank (Set air-charge 2 PSI below the pump cut-in pressure for steel bladder tanks or 4 PSI for fiberglass bladder tanks).
• Bladder or diaphragm has ruptured. (Check by depressing the air valve stem. If water emerges, diaphragm is ruptured (Replace tank).)
• Incorrect pressure switch differential (Adjust pressure switch differential to 20 PSI. Tank too small. Check tank sizing, (Replace tank).

• Pressure tanks are usually pre-charged at 30 PSI.
• Drain water from tank to check tank air charge.
• Pressure switches are usually set for 30-50 PSI.

• Faulty check or foot valve. (Close valve between tank and house. If gauge pressure drops, the check or foot valve is faulty. Replace defective valve)
• Slow leak in house plumbing. (Close valve between tank and house. If gauge pressure does not drop, there is a slow leak in the house plumbing. Repair leak)

• Defective air valve core. (Brush soapy water around air stem. If leak is found, the valve core is defective. Replace valve core)
• Defective tank weld. (Brush soapy water around tank welds. If leak is found, the tank is defective. Replace tank)
• Ruptured tank diaphragm Replace tank

• Incorrect air charge in tank Set air-charge 2 PSI below the pump cut-in pressure for steel bladder tanks or 4 PSI for fiberglass bladder tanks
• Defective pump Repair pump
• Defective well piping Repair or replace piping