How to Set a Correct Air Pressure inside Your Pressure Tank?
Pressure tanks are essential components of water systems, helping to maintain consistent water pressure and reducing the wear and tear on pumps. Properly setting the air pressure inside your pressure tank is crucial for the system's efficiency, longevity, and overall performance. Here, we will guide you through the steps to correctly set the air pressure inside your pressure tank, ensuring optimal performance.
Understanding the Basics: Cut-In and Cut-Out Pressures
Before setting the air pressure, it is important to understand two key terms: cut-in pressure and cut-out pressure.
1. Cut-In Pressure (Cut-on): This is the low pressure point at which the pump turns on to increase water pressure.
2. Cut-Out Pressure (Cut-off): This is the high pressure point at which the pump turns off.
For instance, in a typical water system, the cut-in pressure might be set at 40 PSI (pounds per square inch) and the cut-out pressure at 60 PSI. These settings ensure that the pump cycles efficiently, maintaining consistent water pressure throughout the system.
Standard Pressure Settings for Aquasky Pressure Tanks
Aquasky offers various pressure tanks, each with different standard settings:
• PUMPLUS: Standard setting pressure is 30 PSI / 2 Bar.
• Mega-Plus: Standard setting pressure is 58PSI / 4 Bar.
• Thermal Plus and Solar Plus: Both have a standard setting pressure of 40 PSI / 2.6 Bar.
Steps to Set the Correct Air Pressure
1. Determine the Cut-In Pressure: Check the cut-in pressure of your water pump. This is typically marked on the pressure switch or manual of your pump system
2. Calculate the Tank Air Pressure: The air pressure inside the pressure tank should be set to 5% less than the cut-in pressure of the water pump. For example, if your water pump cut-in pressure is 40 PSI, you should set the tank air pressure to 38 PSI.
3. Relieve System Pressure: Turn off the pump and drain the water from the tank by opening a faucet. This step ensures that you measure and adjust the air pressure accurately.
4. Measure Air Pressure: Use a tire gauge to check the air pressure in the tank. The air valve is typically located at the top of the tank.
5. Adjust Air Pressure: If the air pressure is not at the desired level, use an air compressor or a hand pump to increase it. To decrease the pressure, release air by depressing the valve stem.
Why 5% Less?
Setting the air pressure 5% less than the cut-in pressure is crucial because it reduce the non-flowing water volume inside the tank. This setting ensures that the pump operates efficiently by not starting unless all the stored water is used, thereby reducing the pump's cycle frequency and saving energy.
Benefits of Correct Air Pressure
• Extended Lifespan: Proper air pressure prevents the rubber diaphragm inside the tank from overstretching, which can cause damage and reduce the tank's lifespan.
• Energy Efficiency: The correct air pressure setting saves electricity as the pump only operates when necessary, reducing the number of starts and stops.
• Optimal Performance: It ensures that the pressure tank supports the highest efficiency of the pump cycle, maintaining steady water pressure in the system.
Risks of Incorrect Air Pressure
• Premature Pump Failure: Incorrect air pressure can cause the pump to short cycle, which puts a lot of strain on the pump and can lead to early failure.
• Warranty Void: Operating the pressure tank with incorrect air pressure can invalidate the warranty, as it signifies improper maintenance and usage.
Practical Example
Let’s simplify with an example. Suppose your pump delivers 50 liters per minute (lpm), but a shower only uses 20 lpm. Without a pressure tank, the pump would start and stop rapidly to maintain the flow.
A pressure tank, containing compressible air, accepts the extra water flow, compressing the air until the cut-out pressure is reached, and the pump turns off. The tank then releases water until the cut-in pressure is achieved, and the pump starts again. This cycle ensures smooth water flow without causing rapid pressure fluctuations or excessive wear on the pump.
About Aquasky
Aquasky is committed to providing high-quality pressure tanks that enhance the efficiency and longevity of your water systems. Aquasky sale member acts and thinks like owners to attain solutions for our customers, anticipating challenges and proactively seeking resolutions. We rely on teamwork and diligence to sustain our partnerships. We do the right thing. We listen to our customers, we communicate honestly, and we deliver on our commitments. We want to make working with Aquasky as easy as possible for our customers. We want to be an extension of your company.
For more information about our pressure tanks, visit our website: www.aquaskyplus.com or if you have any furthur question, please feel fee to contact us at [email protected]
By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your pressure tank is set correctly, leading to efficient operation and extended system life. Proper maintenance and correct settings are key to achieving the best performance from your pressure tank and water system.