How do you fix a waterlogged pressure tank?
If your tank is waterlogged, you’ll notice the pump will run continually. Excess pressure on the pump will cause it to burn out. Since pumps can be expensive, ensure you do all you can to prevent having to replace it.
Other signs your tank may be waterlogged include:
- Having too much water or too little air inside the bladder tank that causes the pressure to fluctuate.
- Bacteria in the stagnant water can develop an odor or the water may have an unpleasant taste.
- You notice changes in the water pressure when taking a shower or bath. The pump may also cut on and off frequently.
- The walls in the tank may have deposits of calcium, rust, chlorine or other minerals.
To fix any problems in the waterlogged pressure tank:
- Always disconnect the power supply to the pump. If you leave the power on the actuator may activate and cause injury.
- Locate the breaker for the pump. If there’s no power switch, just flip the breaker.
- Drain the tank. Attach an ordinary garden hose to the drain opening at the bottom of the tank.
- Open the tank valve and let the air flow out.
- Close the valve and check the air volume control if there is one on the tank.
- Check the pump actuator settings to see if the readings meet the standard pump readings.
- Switch the pump back on or flip the breaker if necessary.
Check to see how the pump is running. If it’s starting and stopping your bladder tank may need replacing. In order to keep the air pressure within the correct range, you may need to re-charge the pressure from time to time. Adjust the air pressure to read between 28 to 30 pounds per square inch (psi). If you’re able to adjust the air pressure, you can then re-activate and flush the tank until the water runs clear. When the water is clear, you can re-employ the filtration inside the tank.
To re-charge the pressure:
- Switch off the pump’s power supply.
- Avoid the water filtering components
- Turn on any faucet that does not have a filtration screen.
- Let the water run until the pressure reaches 0.
- With the faucet open, use a compressor to start pumping air into the tank.
- Continue to let the air inside the tank until the water is almost gone.
- Switch off the main valve that connects to the plumbing.
- Continue to draw air into the tank until you get at least 25 pounds of pressure inside the tank.
- Stop pumping and switch the power to the pump back on.
- Open the main plumbing valve and let the water run off until its clear.
- Put the filtering components back to work.
In some cases, you may need to replace the entire tank if is waterlogged. However, it may be a good idea to try cleaning it to help prolong its lifespan. The tank bladder walls may have build-up of chemical deposits from the water that causes the water to slow down in the tank. A good cleaning may help reduce the build-up.
How to clean a waterlogged pressure tank:
You will need the following tools:
- A pair of pliers
- A screwdriver
- A rag
- A piece of steel wool
- Disconnect the current and drain the water from inside the tank.
- Use some pliers and detach the air regulator.
- Unscrew the bolts from the access hatch with a screwdriver.
- Pull the hatch aside and spot a flashlight inside the tank.
- If you notice any build-up of calcium or other minerals on the tank walls, wipe it off with a piece of cloth.
If the build-up is hard and difficult to move, scrub at them with a piece of steel wool.While you’re at it, clean any build-up from around the pipes that may be present and check for any possible leaks.
- Use the pliers to re-attach the access hatch and the air regulator.
- Re-connect the breaker and let the pump run its cycle to get water and air back into the tank.
Conclusion
A waterlogged pressure tank may cause fluctuations in the air and water pressure and cause your pipes to slow down. Overworking the pump will cause it to break down and it’s costly to replace. Try regulating the air pressure or cleaning the tank to get it back into shape. If all else fails, you will need to replace it.
