Well Pressure Tank Bladder Failure Symptoms

A bladder pressure tank contains pressurized water and air with a membrane or bladder separating them. The function of the bladder pressure tank is to prevent over cycling of the pump, maintain the water pressure in the system, and protect against water hammer. The normal life span is five to seven years. There are several symptoms to look for when the tank's not working correctly.

  1. The Pump

    • If the pump motor turns on and off too often this is a sign of the tank being waterlogged. The pump motor should not cycle more than five times in an hour.

    Taste and Odor

    • If there is an unpleasant taste or odor to the water or coliform samples are unsatisfactory, this is a sign that the tank is waterlogged. The tank may have bacterial problems and precaution measures should be taken immediately.

    The Tank

    • The inside walls of the tank can become corroded and weakened from the exposure to water. This is premature tank failure.

    Causes

    • Common causes for tank failure are sediment, and high levels of chlorine. Additionally, tanks sitting directly on the ground can rust and lose structural integrity, and the chlorinators can give off corrosive vapors that cause the tank to rust.

    Precaution

    • Always read the manufacturer's safety warnings when working with bladder pressure tanks.