Cheap tanks tend to last about 5 years, whereas more expensive, but higher quality tanks could last up to 30 years. If your water is clean and you're using the right size tank, the average life-span is around 15 years. The quality of the water that is being pumped also factors into the equation.
Pressure tanks last on average 10 to 15 years.
Common Signs of a Well Water Tank Problem
Unstable water pressure as the pump cycles on and off. A pump that runs less than 30 seconds to pressurize the tank. A pump that cycles on and off frequently or remains running. Water leaks at the pressure tank.
Well pressure tanks typically last 10 to 15 years, depending on water quality, usage patterns, and maintenance. Over time, the tank's interior bladder (in bladder tanks) or diaphragm can wear out or develop leaks, leading to a loss of pressure and efficiency in the water system.
Replacing a well pressure tank costs $500 on average, but it can cost between $300 and $700, depending on the tank's size, capacity, and labor costs for professional installation.
When a well pressure tank goes bad, the well pump and plumbing inside your home can suffer harmful consequences. Problems like water hammer, increased electricity bills, and well pump failure can all occur when your pressure tank fails.
Chances are it's time to replace your water well pressure tank. While this may sound like a job for a professional plumber, this is also something you can do yourself at home if you're handy with DIY plumbing.
In my experiences, I've seen residential homes use anywhere from 20 gallon pressure tanks to 120 gallon pressure tanks. I've also had plenty of customers tie multiple 20 gallon storage tanks together in series to increase their pressurized storage over time, so you don't have to commit to the largest size available.
To ensure that your pressure tank is properly maintained and continues functioning correctly—as well as provide water at consistent pressure throughout your home—you should have it checked every year.
However, it's always a good idea to hire a certified plumber to repair or replace well pumps and water pumps. Certified professionals are far more likely to get the job done correctly and prevent future issues, which is especially important for ensuring access to clean water for your home.
Most well tanks come set at 30/50. The cut-on pressure for the well pump is 30 psi, so the pressure of the tank should have a pressure of 28 psi. If your well tank is on a 40/60 pressure switch, your pressure setting should be 38 psi.
Well-X-Trol is the world's most trusted brand of well tanks, backed by an industry leading 7-year limited warranty.
Poor Water Pressure
Another clear sign that you may need a new pressure tank is when you observe irregular or weak water pressure. A common symptom is when the water flow in showers or faucets spikes momentarily before diminishing. Too little or too much air in your tank can cause this fluctuation.
Key Takeaways. A well pressure tank typically lasts between 5 to 15 years, depending on maintenance, water quality, and usage frequency. Key signs that a well pressure tank needs replacement include water pressure fluctuations, unusual noises, and visible leaks.
Air may escape from the bladder tank, just as it does from a bicycle or car tire. Loss of air inside the tank will result in over-expansion of the bladder, leading to premature bladder failure. Loss of air will lead to excessive pump cycling, which may shorten the life of the well pump motor.
Desired pressure range
30–50 psi: Standard for most homes with moderate water demand. 40–60 psi: Provides higher pressure for large homes, multi-story houses, or homes with high water demand.
The 20 gallons are almost always too small and tend to be “contractor specials”. You are ALWAYS better having a larger tank than a smaller one. This chart shows how many gallons of water is really inside your storage tank. This assumes a pressure setting of 40/60.
How much does a Pressure Tank cost? A typical price for a Pressure Tank is $219 but can range from approximately $42 to $898.
The tank itself can corrode and leak due to old age or poor water quality. Another cause is when the pressure switch fails.
Well pumps are still able to function without a pressure tank, but it's highly recommended to install a pressure tank because they increase the lifespan of your well pump. Well pumps aren't designed to operate rapidly or continually; when this happens, they tend to engage in something called water cycling.
You can tell if your thermal expansion tank is working by pushing the air valve (Schrader valve) on the bottom of the take and seeing whether or not air comes out. If air comes out, your expansion tank is working. If nothing or water comes out your tank is bad and needs to be replaced.
Swap the switch
Close the valve from the pressure tank to the house. Then drain the pressure tank. Next, remove the old switch and nipple. Replace them with new parts.
Check the Pressure Switch
To reset your pressure switch, close all water valves leading to the water delivery system and hold the small siler arm down extending from the switch until pressure in the system is above 30 PSI, then release. If normal pressure resumes, this was the issue.