Before you add air
Confirm that the tank is designed to be air charged and is not leaking or visibly damaged. A ruptured bladder, corroded tank, electrical fault, or failed control will not be fixed by adding air.
If a breaker trips repeatedly, stop. Do not open electrical controls or work on energized equipment.
- Turn off power to the well pump.
- Open a faucet or drain valve and remove water pressure from the system.
- Locate the tank air valve and measure the air pressure with an accurate gauge.
- Compare the reading with the pressure-switch cut-in setting and the tank manufacturer guidance.
- Add or release air as needed, then restore the system and check normal pump cycling.
Why the tank must be drained
Water pressure inside the tank changes the gauge reading. Removing water pressure is necessary to measure the actual precharge.
Do not rely on a generic pressure number. The correct setting is tied to the switch configuration and equipment.
When to stop and call Aqua
Call if the tank will not hold air, the pump still short-cycles, water appears at the air valve, pressure behaves unpredictably, or the equipment does not match the procedure.
Aqua can perform a drawdown test, check the pressure switch and pump operation, and determine whether the tank can be serviced or needs replacement.