Adjusting a water tank pressure switch involves modifying the settings that control when the well pump turns on and off to maintain water pressure in your home. According to the provided reference, you can increase the working range of the pressure switch. For example, to change the range from 30-50 PSI to 30-60 PSI, you would adjust the settings on the switch. While the reference offers a specific example, a more general guide is provided below.
Please Note: Always disconnect power to the pump before working with the pressure switch to avoid electrical shock.
Steps to Adjust Your Water Tank Pressure Switch
- Locate the Pressure Switch: The pressure switch is typically located near the pressure tank and has a metal cover.
- Remove the Cover: Carefully remove the cover of the pressure switch.
- Identify the Adjustment Nuts: Inside, you'll typically find two nuts on a central rod or spring mechanism:
- Range Nut (Larger Nut): This nut adjusts the overall pressure range (the difference between the cut-in and cut-off pressure). Adjusting this nut affects both the cut-in and cut-off pressures equally.
- Differential Nut (Smaller Nut): This nut adjusts the pressure difference between the cut-in and cut-off pressure. Adjusting this nut only affects the cut-off pressure.
- Adjust the Pressure:
- To Increase Pressure: Turn the range nut clockwise to increase both the cut-in and cut-off pressure. Small adjustments are recommended.
- To Decrease Pressure: Turn the range nut counter-clockwise to decrease both the cut-in and cut-off pressures. Small adjustments are recommended.
- To Increase the Cut-Off Pressure without Affecting Cut-In Pressure: Turn the differential nut clockwise.
- To Decrease the Cut-Off Pressure without Affecting Cut-In Pressure: Turn the differential nut counter-clockwise.
- Test the Adjustment: After making an adjustment, replace the cover and turn the power back on to the pump. Run water in your home to observe the pressure gauge on the tank. Watch when the pump turns on (cut-in pressure) and when it turns off (cut-off pressure).
- Fine-Tune if Necessary: If the pressures are not to your liking, repeat steps 4 and 5 with smaller adjustments until the desired pressure range is achieved.
Example Adjustment
Let’s say your current pressure setting is 40/60 (pump turns on at 40 PSI and off at 60 PSI), and you want to increase it to 50/70.
- Turn off power.
- Locate and remove the pressure switch cover.
- Adjust the Range Nut: Turn the range nut clockwise slightly to increase the overall pressure.
- Test and Fine-Tune: Turn the power back on and observe the pressure gauge as the pump cycles. You may need to repeat the adjustment several times to precisely achieve 50/70.
Important Considerations
- Pressure Tank Pre-charge: Make sure your pressure tank's air pre-charge is properly set before adjusting the pressure switch. The pre-charge should be 2 PSI below the desired cut-in pressure. A low pre-charge can cause rapid cycling of the pump.
- Pressure Gauge: A functioning pressure gauge on the tank is essential for accurate adjustments.
- Consult a Professional: If you are uncomfortable working with electrical components or are unsure about any part of this process, consult a qualified well pump technician. Incorrect adjustments can damage your pump or plumbing system.
- Observe Pressure Changes: Pay attention to how the water pressure behaves in your home after making adjustments.
