Well Tank Replacement

In a well system, the pressure tank is the heartbeat that keeps water moving smoothly through your home or business. When the tank is undersized, waterlogged, or failing, you’ll feel it—low pressure at fixtures, sputtering faucets, short-cycling pumps, and higher electric bills. John Shelton Plumbing provides professional well tank replacement throughout the Alle-Kiski Valley, ensuring the right tank, correct pre-charge, and code-smart installation so your system runs quietly and efficiently.

What a Well Tank Does (and Why It Matters)

Your pressure tank stores water under air pressure so the well pump doesn’t need to run every time you open a faucet. A healthy tank:

• Reduces pump cycling and extends pump life
• Delivers steadier water pressure throughout the building
• Provides a small reserve during short, high-demand bursts
• Helps protect pipes and fixtures from pressure swings

Signs You Need a New Pressure Tank

• Short cycling: Pump rapidly turns on/off during normal use
• Low or inconsistent pressure: Showers weaken, pressure surges or sputters
• Waterlogged tank: Little to no air cushion—tank feels “heavy” or full
• Rust or moisture at fittings: Corrosion, leaks, or sweating around the tank
• Age and repairs: Older tanks with frequent service calls are often more economical to replace

Our Well Tank Replacement Process

1) System Review & Sizing

We evaluate household demand, pump capacity, switch settings, and plumbing layout to size the tank correctly. Proper sizing reduces cycling and improves system life.

2) Safe Removal & Preparation

We isolate the system, drain the old tank, and prepare a stable, level base with adequate clearance for service. We replace worn isolation valves, unions, and relief devices as needed.

3) Installation & Pre-Charge

We set the manufacturer-recommended pre-charge to match your pressure switch cut-in, then pipe the tank with clean, serviceable connections. We verify switch operation and confirm there are no leaks.

4) Start-Up & Performance Check

We bring the system online, monitor pump cycles, and test pressure at key fixtures. If sediment or minerals are present, we may recommend additional maintenance steps to protect the new tank.

Choosing the Right Tank

• Construction: Diaphragm/bladder-type tanks protect the air charge from water for long service life.
• Capacity: Correct drawdown volume keeps pump cycling reasonable during typical use.
• Materials: Corrosion-resistant tanks and fittings help in damp basements or well houses.
• Serviceability: Accessible valves, gauges, and drains make future checks faster and cleaner.

Code-Smart, Clean Installations

Our licensed, insured plumbers install to manufacturer specs and local practices—proper relief protection, support/anchoring, accessible shutoffs, and tidy, labeled piping. Where applicable, we isolate the tank to simplify future service and add a pressure gauge for quick diagnostics.

Maintenance Tips to Extend Tank & Pump Life

• Check tank pre-charge annually (with power off and water drained from the tank)
• Keep the area dry and well-ventilated; address persistent dampness
• Consider sediment control if you see frequent clogging at aerators
• Monitor cycling—rapid changes usually point to switch, pre-charge, or valve issues

Related Services

• Water Line Repair – fix leaks and pressure loss from damaged lines
• Excavation – clean, safe replacement where buried components need access
• Bathroom Plumbing – fixture repairs to eliminate hidden demand and drips
• Kitchen Plumbing – faucet, valve, and supply upgrades

FAQs

How long do well pressure tanks last?

Service life varies by water conditions and usage. Many modern diaphragm tanks last 7–15 years or more with proper pre-charge and dry installation environments.

What size tank do I need?

It depends on pump output, switch settings, and household demand. We size the tank to provide adequate drawdown and reduce cycling under typical use.

Why does my pump keep turning on and off quickly?

This “short cycling” often indicates a waterlogged tank, incorrect pre-charge, a failing pressure switch, or a hidden leak. We diagnose the root cause during replacement.

Can you move my tank to a better location?

Often yes. We’ll review clearances, floor support, drainage, and freeze risks to propose a better layout when practical.

Service hours: Mon–Fri 7:30–4:00, Sat 8:00–12:00, Sun Closed.