A pressure vessel water supply is a system that uses a pressure tank to maintain consistent water pressure and adequate water volume in a plumbing system, typically protecting a well pump from excessive cycling.
Here's a breakdown of what that means:
-
Function: Its primary purpose is to stabilize water pressure within a home or building and ensure a reliable water supply at fixtures like faucets and showers. It also protects the well pump (if applicable) from frequent starts and stops, extending its lifespan.
-
Components:
- Pressure Tank (Pressure Vessel): This is a sealed tank, usually made of steel, that contains both compressed air and water. The compressed air provides the pressure needed to push water through the pipes when a faucet is opened. These tanks come in various sizes.
- Water Pump: This pump moves water from a well or other source into the pressure tank.
- Pressure Switch: This switch monitors the water pressure in the tank and signals the pump to turn on or off to maintain the desired pressure range.
- Piping and Fittings: Connects all the components together.
-
How it Works:
- The pump fills the pressure tank with water.
- As the water level rises, it compresses the air within the tank.
- The compressed air exerts pressure on the water surface.
- When a faucet is opened, the pressurized water is forced out of the tank and into the plumbing system.
- As water is used, the pressure in the tank drops.
- When the pressure reaches a pre-set low point, the pressure switch activates the pump, which refills the tank and re-pressurizes the system.
- Once the pressure reaches a pre-set high point, the pressure switch turns off the pump.
-
Benefits:
- Consistent Water Pressure: Provides a steady flow of water even when multiple fixtures are used simultaneously.
- Pump Protection: Reduces the number of times the pump cycles on and off, which reduces wear and tear and extends pump life. Frequent cycling can burn out the pump motor.
- Water Storage: Offers a small reserve of water that can be used during brief power outages (until the tank is emptied).
- Reduced Water Hammer: Helps to dampen the effects of water hammer (the banging noise caused by sudden changes in water flow).
-
Common Applications:
- Well Water Systems: Most commonly used in homes and businesses that rely on well water.
- Booster Systems: Can be used to boost water pressure in areas with low municipal water pressure.
- Irrigation Systems: Used to provide consistent pressure to sprinkler systems.
In summary, a pressure vessel water supply utilizes a pressure tank to store water under pressure, ensuring a reliable and consistent water supply while protecting the pump from frequent operation.
