For those people who use well water in their homes, apart from the pump, there is one critical component that your water supply system cannot do without. This is a well pressure tank.
This tank has 2 main functions. First, it acts as a water reservoir, storing some pressurized water that runs through your pipes as you open your faucets before the pump turns on. Second, the tank provides additional water in times of high demand so as to assist the pump to keep up.
As such, it is important to get the best well pressure tank so that it can work perfectly to carry out the functions stated above. This article looks at some of the best ones in the market, with a view of helping you find the most suitable unit for your water system.
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Amazon.comReviews of the Best Well Pressure Tank
Amtrol WX-202 Well Pressure Tank
Amtrol’s WX-202 is specifically made for use in residences because it has a tall and slim design that reduces its floor space requirements. This means that it can easily fit along narrow plumbing lines in your home.
Additionally, the unit has an appliance-like blue finish, which qualifies it to be installed anywhere in the house because it blends quite easily.
Construction wise, this tank is made using high-strength steel, making its shell very strong and durable, which is ideal for protecting all the internal components from external damage. It also features a stainless-steel air valve that is welded rather than threaded so as to prevent any pressure loss.
On the inside, a butyl diaphragm is used to separate the air and water chambers, and it is combined with a virgin polypropylene liner to create a 100% corrosion resistant barrier between the water and the metallic outer frame. Both are secured to the frame using a positive hoop ring seal, making it very reliable.
In terms of volume, the WX-202 has a capacity of 20 liters and comes pre-pressurized at 38 psi from the factory. At the pressure switch, the cut in pressure should be set at 2 psi below this value, while the differential pressure between the cut in and cut out should not exceed 20 psi for the best results.
Features at a glance
- Tall and slim design reduces its floor space requirements.
- Appliance-like blue finish.
- Made using high-strength steel.
- Welded stainless steel air valve.
- Butyl diaphragm plus a virgin polypropylene internal liner that is 100% corrosion resistant.
- 20-liter capacity.
- Pre-pressurized at 38 psi from the factory.
WaterWorker 25009 20Gal Vertical Well Tank 20-Gallon
WaterWorker’s HT-20B is a highly rated 20 gallon well pressure tank because it is well built, having a stainless-steel outer shell with a high gloss enamel finish for protecting it from the elements. This makes it very strong and durable.
Just like the WX-202 above, this unit features an appliance-like blue finish and has a tall, slim design that makes it suitable for residential use. This is because the color makes it blend easily in homes while its design means that it occupies very little floor space.
On the inside, the tank features a butyl diaphragm, which works very efficiently because it is designed to flex rather than to stretch and crease. This part separates water from the air reservoir, with the air compartment coming pre-charged at 25 psi.
In the water compartment, a polypropylene liner is used to keep water from coming into direct contact with the stainless-steel lining, and this keeps the tank from rusting, while also maintaining the purity of the water inside.
Apart from this 20-gallon capacity tank, WaterWorker also has a similar model in various sizes, which include 14, 26, 44, 62, 86- and 119-gallon tanks, giving you the option to choose your most preferred size for your well water supply system.
Features at a glance
- 20-gallon capacity, but the model is available in various sizes.
- Appliance-like blue finish with a tall, slim design that occupies very little floor space.
- Butyl diaphragm.
- Polypropylene liner in the water reservoir.
- Comes pre-charged at 25 psi.
Flotec FP7120 Vertical Pre-Charged Pressure Water Tank
Flotec’s FP7120 is a very tough pressure water tank that is made using heavy gauge steel, making it quite thick, and capable of withstanding a maximum pressure of 100 psi.
On top of the metallic body, this tank has a polyester finish that is applied electrostatically, in which this method bakes it permanently onto the surface, making it resistant to the elements.
On the inside, the unit has a capacity of 35 gallons and has a 40-psi pre-charge, which is nitrogen-rich, resulting in a very good performance. It also has a liner on the water compartment that ensures water never comes into contact with the metallic body, preventing rusting and water contamination.
This large capacity provides a greater relief for the pump because it increases the drawdown, reducing the pump cycles in the process and this leads to a maximum system life.
For easy maintenance, the FP7120 features an easily removable air/ water separator and has a conveniently placed air valve that can be easily hooked up to increase the air pressure inside.
Other features include an appliance-like finish in blue color and a vertical design orientation, which means that it occupies very little floor space.
Features at a glance
- Made using heavy gauge steel, making it capable of withstanding 100 psi.
- Electrostatically applied polyester finish.
- 35-gallon capacity with a 40-psi nitrogen-rich pre-charge.
- Easily removable air/ water separator.
- Conveniently placed air valve.
- Appliance-like blue finish.
Amtrol Well-X-Trol 26 Gallon Water System Pressure Tank
Armtrol’s WX-202XLD is very similar to the WX-202, featuring an appliance-like blue finish, with a tall, vertical design that requires very little floor space for installation.
On the inside, this unit has a butyl diaphragm that separates the water and air chambers for effective pressurization, with the air compartment coming pre-charged at 38 psi.
However, if this is not enough, the tank has a welded air valve that you can use to increase the pressure to a maximum of 150 psi. The welded design performs better than a threaded one because the latter can leak and thus, lose air pressure over time.
In the water compartment, a 100% corrosion-resistant virgin polypropylene liner is installed so as to prevent water from coming into contact with the stainless-steel outer frame, and this ensures there is no rusting or corrosion, which would damage the tank and contaminate the water.
The polypropylene liner and diaphragm are secured in place using a positive hoop ring seal for reliability and consistent performance whenever pressurized.
However, this tank is quite expensive as compared to the WX-202, but this is mostly attributed to its 26-gallon capacity, which is slightly bigger than the cheaper WX-202.
Features at a glance
- Appliance-like blue finish with a tall, vertical design.
- Butyl diaphragm.
- Pre-charged at 38 psi.
- Welded valve eliminates any chances of air leaks.
- 100% corrosion-resistant virgin polypropylene liner.
- Stainless-steel outer frame.
- Positive hoop ring seal for securing the diaphragm and liner.
Wellmate WM-9 / WM0120QC Fiberglass Tank
Wellmate’s WM-9 is a 30-gallon pressure tank that has a fiberglass construction, which eliminates any occurrence of rust, whether on the inside or outside. This fiberglass body is epoxy-resin sealed on the outer side, giving it a dent and scratch-resistant surface that is virtually maintenance-free.
Even though fiberglass might not be as strong as stainless steel, such construction also has the benefit of being very lightweight, and this makes the WM-9 weigh less than half the weight of steel tank. Such a light unit is very suitable for residential and commercial applications because it is durable and very easy to install.
Internally, this tank features a heavy-gauge polymer-built air cell that is fully replaceable for easy maintenance and comes pre-charged at 24 psi, with the ability to operate at a maximum of 125 psi.
Other features include a sturdy, molded polymeric base that is corrosion-resistant as well as impact proof, and a bottom-placed inlet/ outlet one-piece drain pipe that is made of high impact PVC for durability purposes.
Features at a glance
- 30-gallon capacity.
- Fiberglass construction.
- Epoxy-resin sealed outer layer for maintenance-free use.
- Very lightweight.
- Heavy gauge, polymer-built air cell that is fully replaceable.
- Comes pre-charged at 24 psi, with a maximum operating pressure of 125 psi.
- Molded polymeric base.
- One-piece inlet/ outlet drain pipe that is made of high impact PVC.
WaterWorker HT-32B Vertical Pressure Well Tank
If you have a maximum of ten fixtures at the house, then WaterWorker HT-32B is the apt pressure tank for you because it has a 32 gallons water capacity.
Like any other well-designed well pressure tank, this one is also pre-charged or pre-pressurized. So, the clogging issue is solved right there. It has a 100 psi working pressure, enough for daily residential use.
When it comes to the durability of well pressure tanks, it’s the diaphragm which plays a huge part. So, a long-lasting diaphragm is a must, and this one has it.
The diaphragm keeps the water and air separate, which is essential for a pressure tank to operate smoothly and efficiently. This diaphragm with the lock rings, which are included with the tank, stops the two forces from colliding.
Then you have the polypropylene liner. This one also plays its part in keeping the air pressure separate from the water along with the diaphragm. To be precise, it’s a teamwork of the shell, diaphragm, and liner. The liner also works relentlessly to keep the bad smell away and keep the water clean.
Features at a glance
- Simple design and easy installation
- 32 gallons of water capacity
- 100 psi working pressure
- Steel shell
- Lock rings and diaphragm keeps it airtight
- Polypropylene liner removes bad odor
Amtrol WX-350 Well Pressure Tank
Amtrol is a well-known name in making the best well pressure tanks. These tanks are made for larger homes and institutions. So, every feature in it has to be double in terms of quality. And Amtrol has cracked that puzzle well and how! The one we are reviewing now is Amtrol WX-350.
The way it is designed and engineered makes it capable of delivering 150 psi working pressure. Why not, because this one is made of a high-strength steel shell. The custom mill steel is going to provide extra strength but will not increase its weight for you to struggle with it.
The inner liner is made of virgin polypropylene, so the chances of the liner cracking or flaking are zero. It is 100% corrosion resistant. No matter how many years have passed, it will not chip or peel.
Then you have the sturdy butyl diaphragm and welded stainless steel air valve. The welded valve is better than threaded ones when it comes to handling the loss of air pressure. All these combined, you get a sturdy, well pressure tank.
It has Amtrols’s very own creation, which is the unique positive hoop ring. The ring secures the diaphragm, liner, and shell. The ring seal provides that much-needed extra strength and makes it more reliable.
Features at a glance
- 119 gallons capacity
- 150 psi working pressure
- Butyl diaphragm, virgin polypropylene liner, and steel shell
- Diaphragm, liner, and shell secured together with a hoop ring
- Ensures extra strength and reliability
- Minimum weight yet sturdy and durable
Goulds V60 HydroPro pressure tank
This one and the next one we are going to review are pretty similar to each other but are from two different brands. First, let us review Goulds V60 HydroPro. It is a sturdy well pressure tank with a capacity of 20 gallons. Not massive but is enough to cover the daily use.
The tank comes with a tee kit with approximately seven items in it. This kit is essential for connecting the tank with the waterline. So, you are going to buy these items anyway. But the best part of this tank is that it already has the items available with it. So you can at once start setting the tank up. The tees are all lead-free. So, safe for you as well as the tank.
The tank stands on a base made of high-density polypropylene. It can tackle 125 psi water pressure and pre-charged to the most common 38 psi cut-in pressure. HydroPro is both watertight and airtight.
What makes the water in it always safe to use, free of bad smell and bacteria, is the polypropylene liner and the heavy-duty butyl diaphragm. Its patented positive retention system ensures the diaphragm and liner remain connected for years.
Rainwater, aggressive water conditions, or saltwater, nothing can cause corrosion to this tank.
Features at a glance
- 20 gallons capacity and 125 psi working pressure
- High-density polypropylene base
- Resists corrosion well
- Polypropylene liner and butyl diaphragm
- Includes brass tank tee kit
- Easy, hassle-free, quick service
WELLMATE PENTAIR WM6 WM-6 20 gallon quick connect
WELLMATE WM6 has a 20-gallon water capacity. As it claims, it is super quick to connect and simple to install. Hardly needs manpower and requires time.
The tank comes with a 1”x4” Brass tank tee kit. You get a total of 7 items, which includes a pressure switch, Tank tee with port, pressure gauge, and more. So, you need nothing extra to connect the tank to the waterline.
The kit is included with the tank doesn’t in any way mean that the items are not well-made. These just like the tank are durable and will last for years. Since all the items that you need to install and connect are in your hand, that is why it ensures a fast and hassle-free connection.
It is capable of delivering a 125 psi working pressure and is pre-pressurized to 38 psi. 38 psi is the most common cut-in pressure, so it is a standard tank. It might not be for larger houses or institutions but will be an apt pressure tank for an average or small household.
The tank material withstands aggressive water conditions too well. So, it is perfect for coastal regions. No matter how high the capacity of the water, in causing corrosion is, this tank will withstand the rust to a T.
Features at a glance
- 20 gallons of water capacity
- 125 psi working pressure and superb drawdown
- Pre-pressurized to 38 psi
- Includes 1”x4” Brass tank tee kit that has seven items
- Apt for coastal regions as withstands rust
- Wider pressure setting ensures flexibility
Amtrol FBA_WX-251 WX-251 Well Pressure Tank
Here we have another Amtrol well pressure tank, and this one has 62 gallons water capacity. So, those of you who thought the previous one to be too massive can try this one because the quality is as high as the previous one.
Just like the previous tank, this one is also made of a high-strength steel shell. It is made to last, which applies to all the Amtrol pressure tanks. The water condition might be any; even the most aggressive water conditions cannot damage the steel body. The reason is its multi-dome construction.
The inner liner is corrosion resistant and made of virgin polypropylene. It can kill 99.9% bacteria right upon contact. No matter how many days the water is stored, there will be no bad smell in it. It’s safe as it is free of Bisphenol-A.
The air valve is welded instead of threaded. As we mentioned earlier, the welded one handles air pressure better and eliminates the chances of loss in the pressure. Welding also protects the diaphragm and liner from getting damaged due to sharp edges and rough spots.
The thick butyl diaphragm, inner liner, and shell, all are together connected and sealed with one hoop ring. It ensures better strength and reliability. The tank is pre-pressurized and handles 150 psi water pressure.
Features at a glance
- 62-gallon capacity
- Heavy-duty steel pressure tank with corrosion-resistant inner liner
- Thickest diaphragm and welded air valve
- Diaphragm, liner, and shell secured with hoop ring seal
- Withstands extreme water condition
- Pre-pressurized to 38 psi
Well Pressure Tank Buying Guide
Type
There are 3 types of pressure tanks to consider. These are:
Air-over-water tanks: these are the older types of well pressure tanks and they have only one compartment inside that houses both the water and pressurized air. The problem with this type is that over time, the pressurized air dissolves in water and this reduces the pressure inside.
Diaphragm tanks: diaphragm tanks incorporate the use of diaphragms, which separate the air and water chambers so as to avoid air from dissolving and thus, maintain the water pressure. The problem with them is that the diaphragm may detach under high pressure if it is not secured tightly.
Bladder tanks: these utilize a bladder or an air cell inside the water reservoir instead of a diaphragm. This ensures that the water and air are separate and eliminates the problem of detaching, making them the best option to consider when buying a well pressure tank.
Capacity
There are two ways at looking at the capacity factor. If you want fresh water that is being pumped straight from the well, then you should buy a small capacity tank because it will give you a smaller drawdown. However, this will cause a lot of strain to your pump because it will be running after very short intervals.
On the other hand, if you prefer less energy consumption, then you better buy a bigger tank because it will hold more water and thus, require fewer pump restarts over time due to the large draw down.
Construction
A pressure tank’s construction mostly focuses on its outer shell, which is usually made out of stainless steel. Stainless steel makes these units very sturdy and capable of withstanding falls or even small dents without cracking open.
The problem with such tanks is that it makes them very heavy and thus, harder to handle, especially during installation. Stainless steel may also rust if exposed to the elements and therefore, the tank must be regularly maintained so as to ensure the metallic surface is sufficiently coated to prevent wear and tear.
On the other hand, fiberglass pressure tanks are extremely durable and do not rust even when exposed to the elements. Additionally, they are very lightweight, making them very easy to handle during installation.
The only problem with fiberglass is that it may crack open much easier as compared to stainless steel if it falls or is hit by a sharp object.
Coating
Another thing to consider is the coating applied to these materials. For stainless steel, whether it’s coated using polyester, high gloss enamel or any other lining, this layer must be waterproof so as to protect the underlying metallic surface from rusting.
Fiberglass tanks must also be coated externally but not for waterproofing. This layer is important for additional strength against dents, scratches and other minor defects.
Pre-charge and Maximum Operating Pressure
Pre-charge basically defines the air pressure that the tank comes bearing in its air chamber from the factory.
It is important to know this value so as to determine if the pressure is suitable for your water supply system or if it needs any increase or decrease. It is also important to know the maximum operating pressure so that you do not exceed this value as you increase the air pressure.
Conclusion
Pressure tanks are vital components in a well water supply system and as such, you must have the best well pressure tank so that you get water constantly and at the right pressure all around your home or commercial building.
After going through the content above, selecting the most ideal tank should not be such a hard task because every important detail about these products is clearly laid out for easy comparison and selection.
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