Private wells provide a dependable supply of clean water to homes for daily needs such as drinking, cleaning, and bathing. The submersible pump lifts water from an aquifer or bedrock and transports it into a pressure tank until you use your faucets, fixtures, and appliances. Occasionally, you may need to check this tank due to reduced pressure before calling for well repair help. Here’s a closer look at common issues and how to troubleshoot.

Potential Pressure Tank Problems

Your pressure tank must remain full to prevent the submersible pump from overworking. If the tank has a faulty pressure switch, the water level will remain low and signal the pump to move more water into the container. This can cause the pump to work harder, which may lead to motor burnout. Pump repairs and replacements can be expensive, which is why it’s important that the tank remains functional.

Pressure tanks have a “bladder,” which is a balloon-like device that regulates pressure. It also assists with moving water from the tank through supply lines into your residence. If the bladder bursts, tank pressure will decrease and trigger the pump to run more frequently to move volume in an attempt to restore pressure. This can result in waterlogging, which is an excess of water in the tank.

How to Check the Tank

A pressure test is the first step. This requires two people, so ask a family member or neighbor to assist you. Have a stopwatch ready, and ask your assistant to stand at a faucet. Find the gauge at the bottom of the pressure tank, which should display a psi meter.

Next, have your assistant turn on the faucet while you watch the gauge. When the needle hits the low setting, start your stopwatch, and stop it as soon as the needle moves to the high setting. If it takes less than 60 seconds to transition from low to high, this indicates pressure issues that may require well repair from a professional contractor. 

As soon as you notice problems with your pressure tank or submersible pump, get in touch with Johnson Water Well Drilling. This family-owned business provides well drilling, maintenance, and pump repairs to homes and businesses throughout Foley, AL. Call (251) 955-5236 to get a quote on well repair and book an appointment with the BBB®-accredited company. Visit the website to learn more about how they can keep your well system clean and serviceable.