Water pressure tanks are not cheap. So do you really need to replace yours?

It’s not that old, is it? It’s still good, isn’t it?

If you have to ask, the odds are very good that it’s replacement time.

Sure, it has done a great job on your well or lake water over the years, but now it has probably got some mold on the outside and its days are numbered. At the same time, you may have cast iron fittings that are rusting and likely restricting your water flow.

The answer then is, YES, you should replace yours now BEFORE it fails, rusts through and leaks. Because, if that happens when you’re at work, out of town, or in bed sleeping, you’ll have quite the mess on your hands!

So, today, we’ll walk you through how to replace your pressure tank.

 

How Do I Know When My Pressure Tank is Too Old?

We know what you are thinking. You would love to squeeze a few more years out of the tank and just replace that rusty “T” pack, and not the tank itself.

It’s important to know that the life expectancy of a pressure tank is about 10 -15 years.

Not sure how old yours is? Check the serial number:

• For example, our serial number is 204-97-088.
• That means it was made on the 204^th day of 1997.
• That’s 25 years old. Even if it’s still working, it’s on borrowed time.
• Replace ASAP before you have a problem.

The good news is that you can just replace it with a new pressure tank that is roughly the same size. You can also get one with a Neoprene jacket to keep it from getting sweaty and moldy. Most importantly, your new “T pack” will be brass so it won’t rust away like the old one.

 

Can I Replace My Pressure Tank on My Own?

We would classify this as a fairly advanced DIY project. If you have some experience working with electrical and plumbing systems, you should be able to do it. But, if you’re not experienced in either of those areas, this might not be for you.

Watch this video for a full walk-thru and see if this is something you want to tackle alone. It could very well be! But it’s best to be safe.

If you're confident about getting started with the DIY replacement process, please follow the steps below.

 

DIY: How to Replace the Pressure Tank at Your Home or Cottage

Once again, if you need visual cues, be sure to watch the video above. 

Here are the steps you will need to follow:

• Step 1 - Turn off the Water Supply
  Before you do anything else, ensure your water and electrical systems are turned off at the well. It's best to shut off the circuit breaker for the pump.
  
  
• Step 2 - Drain the Tank
  This can be done using a hose and an old bucket. It may take between 5-20 minutes, depending on how much water is in the system. Or, you can drain it into a sump pump if you have one nearby.
  
  
• Step 3 - Remove the Old Tank
  Remove the cap from the pressure switch, and disconnect the wires. It’s a good idea to take a picture of the wires before disconnecting so you can reconnect them correctly. Other people like to label them with masking tape. 
  Once disconnected, remove the plumbing connections to the “T” pack.
  Remove and scrap the old tank. When taking the old “T” pack apart, take a second to see how clogged the old cast iron fittings have become. Yuck!
  
  
• Step 4 - Fit the New Tank
  You will want to use a new brass “T” pack, assembled using Teflon tape and plumbers grease. Assemble and install the new pressure switch and gauge to the new tank using Teflon tape. Make sure to wrap the tape around in the same direction that the screw will turn, so that the tape won't be peeled off while re-attaching.
  Now, put the new tank into position, and join the fittings back together, so that the tank is once more connected to the water pump.
  Reconnect the wires at the pressure switch.
  Once the pipes are sealed back together, and the switch is reattached, then you can turn on the water supply, check for leaks, and check that the pump is working.

 

Is it Time For a New Pressure Tank for Your Family?

We offer the industry’s best and most reliable water softeners, filters and equipment -- and stand behind them with the best service and support.

Ready to find the best unit for your family? Visit us at waterestore.ca.