A tank water pump works by using pressure to push water from a storage tank through your plumbing system. Here's a breakdown of the process:
The Basic Components
- Water Pump: This is the motor that moves the water from your source (well, city line, etc.) into the pressure tank.
- Pressure Tank: This tank stores a supply of pressurized water. It contains a rubber diaphragm or bladder that separates the water from compressed air.
- Pressure Switch: This switch monitors the water pressure in the tank and tells the pump when to turn on and off to maintain a specific pressure range.
- Plumbing: The pipes that carry water to and from the tank.
The Process
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Pumping Water In: When the water pressure in the tank drops below a preset level (e.g., 40 psi), the pressure switch activates the water pump.
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Compressing the Air: The pump draws water from the water source and forces it into the pressure tank. As water enters the tank, it compresses the air trapped on the other side of the diaphragm or bladder. This compression builds pressure within the tank.
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Storing Pressurized Water: The compressed air acts like a spring, storing energy. The tank now holds a supply of water that is pressurized.
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Supplying Water: When you turn on a faucet or use water elsewhere in your system, the pressurized water in the tank is forced out. The compressed air pushes the water out of the tank and into your plumbing.
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The Cycle Continues: As water is used, the pressure in the tank gradually decreases. When the pressure drops to the lower limit (e.g., 40 psi), the pressure switch triggers the pump to turn on again, and the cycle repeats.
Benefits of a Tank System
- Consistent Water Pressure: The tank helps maintain a more consistent water pressure in your home, preventing fluctuations.
- Reduced Pump Cycling: The tank reduces the number of times the pump has to turn on and off, extending its lifespan. Without a tank, the pump would have to run every time you opened a faucet.
- Water Storage: The tank provides a small reserve of water, which can be helpful during power outages.
Example Scenario
Imagine you flush a toilet. The pressure in the tank drops slightly. The pressure switch senses this drop and signals the pump to turn on. The pump refills the tank, compressing the air. Once the tank reaches the upper pressure limit (e.g., 60 psi), the pressure switch turns the pump off. Now the tank is ready to supply water again until the next time someone uses it.
