Checking the air pressure in your water pressure tank is a crucial step for maintaining the efficiency and longevity of your well water system. It ensures your pump cycles correctly and provides consistent water pressure throughout your home.
The most accurate way to check the air charge in your water pressure tank is to first empty the tank and then use a standard tire gauge on the Schrader valve, typically located on the top of the tank.
Why Check Your Water Pressure Tank's Air Charge?
A properly pressurized water pressure tank acts as a buffer between your well pump and your home's plumbing. It stores water under pressure, reducing the frequency with which your well pump needs to turn on and off. This not only saves energy but also extends the lifespan of your pump. If the air pressure is too low or too high, it can lead to:
- Short Cycling: The pump turns on and off too frequently.
- Low Water Pressure: Inconsistent or insufficient pressure at your faucets.
- Increased Energy Bills: The pump works harder than necessary.
- Premature Pump Failure: Excessive wear and tear on the pump.
Step-by-Step Guide to Checking Air Pressure
To get an accurate reading of the air charge, it's essential to ensure there is no water pressure pushing back against the air.
1. Depressurize and Empty the Tank
This is the most critical first step. As mentioned in the reference, "once the tank is empty you can check the air charge."
- Turn Off Power: Locate the circuit breaker for your well pump and switch it off. This prevents the pump from turning on while you're working.
- Drain Water: Open a faucet (preferably the lowest one in your house, like an outdoor spigot or basement utility sink) and let the water run until it completely stops. This ensures the pressure tank is empty of water and fully depressurized.
- Listen for Air: You might hear air hissing out of the faucet as the tank fully drains.
2. Locate the Schrader Valve
The air valve on a water pressure tank is a "Schrader valve," identical to the valve on a bicycle or car tire.
- Find the Valve: Look for a small, capped valve on the top of the pressure tank. It might have a plastic or metal cap covering it.
- Remove the Cap: Unscrew the cap to expose the valve stem.
3. Check the Air Charge with a Tire Gauge
- Use a Tire Gauge: "With a handy tire gauge," firmly press the tire gauge onto the Schrader valve stem.
- Read the Pressure: The gauge will display the current air pressure in pounds per square inch (PSI).
- Compare to Pump Settings: The ideal air pressure for your tank should typically be 2 PSI below your well pump's cut-in pressure (the pressure at which your pump turns on). For example, if your pump turns on at 40 PSI, the tank's air charge should be 38 PSI. This setting is usually found on the pressure switch near your well tank.
4. Adjust Air Pressure (If Necessary)
- To Increase Pressure: If the reading is too low, use an air compressor or bicycle pump with a Schrader valve attachment to add air until it reaches the desired PSI.
- To Decrease Pressure: If the reading is too high, use a small tool (like the tip of a pen or a small screwdriver) to depress the pin inside the Schrader valve, releasing air until the correct pressure is achieved.
5. Restore Power and Check for Leaks
- Replace Valve Cap: Screw the cap back onto the Schrader valve.
- Close Faucet: Turn off the faucet you used to drain the system.
- Restore Power: Turn the well pump's circuit breaker back on.
- Monitor: Observe your system to ensure the pump cycles normally and water pressure is consistent. Check the Schrader valve for any hissing sounds indicating a slow leak.
Essential Tools for Checking Air Pressure
Having the right tools makes the process quick and easy.
| Tool | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Tire Pressure Gauge | To accurately measure the air pressure in the tank. |
| Air Compressor/Bicycle Pump | To add air to the tank if the pressure is too low. |
| Small Screwdriver/Pen | To release air from the tank if pressure is too high. |
Maintaining Optimal Tank Pressure
Regularly checking and adjusting your water pressure tank's air charge (at least once a year, or if you notice issues like short cycling or fluctuating pressure) is a simple maintenance task that can save you significant time and money on well system repairs.
