Water Pressure Tank Bladder Failure

If the pump comes on in short and frequent operation the rubber bladder may be the cause.

Water pressure tank bladder failure. What happens is that when the pressure tank pressure falls below the low setting usually between 20 and 35 psi it causes the pressure switch to turn off. The rubber bladder in the pressure tank could be ruptured or empty of air if the pump is erratic in operation. Because waterlogged tanks can contain stagnant water there can be unsatisfactory coliform samples or taste and odor complaints. Waterlogged bladder pressure tanks contribute to the following problems.

Troubleshooting guide check the bladder pressure tank air charge disconnect electrical power to the pump. Remove all power to the pump motor and drain the water from the system. This tank was removed with the belief that the bladder had failed. When someone in the house turns on a faucet or takes a shower the amount of air in the tank expands which reduced air pressure.

If water is leaking out of the schrader valve this means that the barrier between air and water has become compromised. The pump motor cycles too often. Frequent cycling can shorten the lifespan of a pump. Drain the tank by opening the closest faucet.

This was confirmed when the schrader value stem was removed. When you have a power failure and continue to use water the pressure switch which has a gray plastic cover and is located near your well s pressure tank will have to be reset. If there is frequent or rapid cycling the bladder in the pressure tank could be damaged. Unfortunately this means you will have to replace your well pressure tank.

When the pressure approaches the cycle on psi usually around 40 psi the pump kicks on to refill the tank with water and restore water pressure. Identify the bladder s air filling stem. See what is short cycling or a bladder that s stuck to itself pump always comes on immediately. Check tank pressure by placing a tire gauge on the air charging valve on top of the tank.

If you go to check the pressure of your well tank and notice water coming out of the air valve this means that the bladder has ruptured. Water should not be able to c. Steel water tanks may not be as badly rusted as the rusty water tank in this photo but they may have pinhole leaks that result in lost air charge in the water tank.