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View Full Version : Pressure Tank Replacement procedure


marciano1969
Dec 17, 2007, 09:17 PM
The pressure tank on my well needs to be replaced, it is leaking from the bottom edge. I have called the well service in the area and they want $1100 to replace the tank. My system is an older tank with two fittings was told by the well company the newer tanks have only one fitting and this will call for some modifications of my system. I would like to replace the tank myself but unsure how to tie the system together, my cousin has plumbing experience but he too, is unsure.

Will describe how the current system is configured. From the well an exit pipe goes to the pump and also connects to the pressure switch there is a cut-off on this line. From the other side of the pump the pipe goes to a T which first goes to the front side of the pressure tank, then continues to the house, a pressure gauge is attach to this line. After the first T there is a second T which goes to a concreate holding tank, the line then continues to the back side of the pressure tank.

Any help would be appreciated, or any advice of cheaper repair companies live outside San Antonio, Texas. Thank you for your time this site has helped me in the past.

marciano1969
Dec 18, 2007, 06:20 AM
Called other family and they told me the process is pretty straight forward. Tie the lines together with a T and the water will follow the path of least resitance. Will begin woirk on the replacement this weekend, if there is any other info needed please add. Thank you again for your time.

labman
Dec 18, 2007, 06:52 AM
I am sorry nobody answered. I try to leave these question to people that know more than me, usually only jumping in when one of the ones that know less posts a bad answer.

If you have had good enough pressure and your pump isn't kicking on and off all the time, pick up a new tank about the same size as the old.

How easy depends on how it is plumbed up now and your skills and tools. If it is PVC about all you need is a hacksaw. You need 5 connections, water in from the well, water out to the house, water in and out of the tank, and smaller connections for a pressure gage and the pressure switch. You can buy a 4 way brass cross, or make up the connections with PVC tees. If you are making PVC to pipe thread connections it is usually best to use a male PVC adapter. Be sure and use a primer and the correct type cement if you are using PVC. Use Teflon tape or other pipe dope on any metal to metal threads. I have found Lowe's has a better selection of plumbing supplies and lower prices than Home Depot. Read and follow directions.

You will need compressed air to charge the tank. Anybody know if you can pressurize the tank ahead of time at a gas station?