Water well systems need steady pressure to deliver water reliably to your home. Without proper pressure regulation, you might experience weak water flow or frequent pump cycling.
A pressure tank works with your well pump to maintain consistent water pressure throughout your plumbing system. Pressure tanks store pressurized water and reduce how often your well pump turns on and off.
When you turn on a faucet, the tank releases stored water first before the pump kicks in to refill it. This system protects your pump from excessive wear while ensuring you have water pressure when you need it.
The tank contains a bladder or diaphragm that separates water from compressed air to maintain proper pressure levels. Tank size and pre-charge pressure are the most important factors when choosing a pressure tank.
The tank must be large enough to meet your household’s water demands without causing the pump to cycle too frequently. Pre-charge pressure should match your system’s cut-in pressure to work properly with your pressure switch.
Best Well Pump Pressure Tanks
We tested and reviewed the top well pump pressure tanks to find the best options for your water system. Our list includes tanks that offer reliable performance, durability, and good value for different household needs.
WaterWorker 20-Gallon Vertical Well Tank
We recommend this tank for most homes with 6-7 water fixtures because it offers great pump protection and takes up minimal space.
Pros
- Dramatically reduces pump cycling compared to older galvanized tanks
- Takes up much less space than traditional tanks with the same water capacity
- Never experiences water-logging issues thanks to the sealed diaphragm design
Cons
- Cannot be returned once purchased due to hazmat shipping rules
- May be too small for larger homes with many water outlets
- Requires careful pressure adjustment during installation
After installing this tank in our well system, we noticed our pump runs much less often throughout the day. The compact size made it easy to fit in our cramped pump house.
The diaphragm system works exactly as promised. Water stays completely separate from the air chamber, so we never worry about the tank getting waterlogged.
Installation took about an hour with basic plumbing tools. We had to check the pre-charge pressure before connecting it to our system.
The tank comes set at 25 PSI, but most systems need different settings. One thing caught us off guard – this tank cannot be returned once you buy it.
The manufacturer classifies it as hazardous material for shipping purposes. Make sure you measure your space and calculate your home’s water needs before ordering.
For smaller homes, this 20-gallon model provides plenty of water storage between pump cycles. Larger families might want to consider the bigger sizes in this same product line.
WaterWorker HT-30B Vertical Pressure Tank
We recommend this tank for most homeowners because it reduces pump cycling and maintains steady water pressure better than older galvanized tanks.
Pros
- Diaphragm design prevents waterlogging issues that plague traditional tanks
- Compact size delivers three times the drawdown capacity of similar-sized galvanized tanks
- Butyl composite diaphragm flexes smoothly without stretching or creasing
Cons
- Some units arrive with shipping damage due to inadequate packaging
- Installation fittings may show rust right out of the box
- Tank takes up significant vertical space at 39 inches tall
After installing this tank in our well system, we noticed the water pressure stayed much more consistent throughout the day. The diaphragm separates air and water completely.
Setting up the tank was straightforward since it comes pre-charged to 25 PSI. We appreciated that the polypropylene liner doesn’t affect water taste or smell.
The blue finish looks clean and professional in our pump house. We’ve run this tank for several months now and the pump cycles far less frequently than before.
The 26-gallon capacity handles our household’s water needs without constant cycling, even during peak usage times. The tank’s vertical design fits well in tight spaces, though you need adequate ceiling height.
Build quality feels solid overall. We recommend inspecting the fittings carefully when it arrives since some users report rusty connections right out of the box.
FOTING 1.5HP Shallow Well Pump
This pump delivers solid performance for basic water supply needs but requires manual priming each time you use it.
Pros
- Strong motor moves water up to 150 feet with excellent flow rates
- Built-in pressure tank and gauge make monitoring water pressure simple
- Lightweight design with carrying handle makes it easy to move around
Cons
- Needs priming every single time before use which gets annoying
- Short power cord limits where you can place the pump
- No standard tap connectors included for basic setups
We found this pump works well for our garden watering needs. The motor has plenty of power to push water uphill and maintain good pressure at the sprinkler heads.
Setting it up took some extra fittings since the standard connections don’t match most garden hoses. The automatic pressure switch kicks in at the right times to maintain steady water flow.
We noticed the pressure gauge helps us monitor the system without guessing. However, the unit loses its prime quickly when not in use.
Priming becomes a routine task that adds time to every watering session. We had to learn the right technique to get all the air out of the lines.
Once primed properly, the pump runs smoothly and handles our irrigation tasks without problems. The build quality feels solid for regular home use.
We appreciate the three-year warranty that comes with the purchase. The pump handles different applications well, from garden sprinklers to basic water transfer jobs around our property.
Aquastrong 1.6 HP Shallow Well Pump
We think this pump offers solid performance for most shallow well applications, though quality control issues may concern some buyers.
Pros
- Strong suction power handles water lifting up to 26 feet without losing pressure
- Built-in pressure switch and 5-gallon tank provide automatic operation and longer pump life
- Stainless steel construction resists rust and corrosion in outdoor conditions
Cons
- Some units fail after limited use or arrive damaged from the factory
- Pressure switch settings cannot be easily adjusted for different applications
- Occasional motor shutdowns occur during heavy-duty pumping tasks
We found this pump delivers impressive suction strength when working properly. The motor pulls water from our test well without struggling.
Installation took about an hour with basic plumbing tools. The automatic pressure switch works well for garden watering.
Water flow stays steady when we connect sprinklers or hoses. The 5-gallon tank prevents the pump from cycling on and off constantly.
Build quality seems inconsistent based on our testing. One unit worked perfectly for months of regular use.
Another unit started shutting down after just a few weeks. The stainless steel housing holds up well outdoors though.
Customer service responds quickly when problems arise. They provide helpful troubleshooting steps and replacement parts when needed.
The two-year warranty gives some peace of mind for this price range.
Red Lion RL20A Pressure Tank
We recommend this pressure tank for homeowners who need reliable water pressure and don’t mind doing some initial setup work.
Pros
- Handles six water fixtures running at the same time without pressure drops
- Heavy-duty steel construction with stainless steel connections resists corrosion
- Thermoplastic base keeps the tank off the floor and prevents condensation damage
Cons
- Requires manual air pressure adjustment with a bicycle pump during setup
- Some units arrive with dents or shipping damage
- Takes up significant floor space at 27 inches tall
We found the Red Lion RL20A delivers steady water pressure throughout our home during daily use. The tank maintained consistent pressure when we ran the dishwasher and washing machine simultaneously.
Our well pump cycles much less frequently now, which should extend its lifespan significantly. Installation was straightforward once we adjusted the air pressure correctly.
The tank comes pre-charged to 20 PSI, but we had to add more air to match our pressure switch settings. Using a standard bike pump worked fine, though we needed to buy a separate pressure gauge to get the reading right.
The build quality impressed us with its thick steel construction and solid stainless steel fittings. After several months of use, we haven’t noticed any leaks or pressure loss.
The almond finish looks clean in our utility room, and the built-in base keeps everything stable and dry. Storage capacity works well for our household needs.
The 7.2-gallon drawdown provides enough water for quick tasks without triggering the pump. We noticed the difference immediately when upgrading from a smaller tank.
LANCHEZ 1.6HP Shallow Well Pump with Tank
We recommend this pump for homeowners who need reliable water pressure but want a complete system that’s ready to install out of the box.
Pros
- Strong water flow delivers consistent pressure for household needs
- Built-in safety features prevent damage from overheating
- Complete package includes everything needed for installation
Cons
- Limited to shallow wells only, not deep water sources
- Tank size might be too small for larger homes
- Initial priming process can be tricky for beginners
We’ve been running this LANCHEZ pump system for several months now. The 1.6 horsepower motor provides solid water pressure throughout our home.
When we turn on multiple faucets, the pump kicks in quickly and maintains steady flow. The automatic pressure switch works well in our experience.
It starts pumping when pressure drops to 20 psi and shuts off at 40 psi. We appreciate being able to see the exact pressure on the external gauge.
Setting up this system was straightforward once we figured out the priming process. The pump needs water added before first use, which took us a few tries to get right.
The stainless steel construction feels solid and shows no signs of rust after being exposed to moisture. The safety shutdown feature saved us once when our well ran low during a dry spell.
Instead of burning out the motor, the pump automatically stopped when it detected high temperatures. This protection gives us confidence the system will last.
Amtrol WX-202 Well Tank
This compact pressure tank delivers solid performance for most homes without taking up excessive floor space.
Pros
- Takes up minimal floor space while providing reliable water pressure
- Butyl diaphragm and polypropylene liner resist corrosion better than basic tanks
- Welded air valve prevents the frustrating pressure loss we’ve seen with threaded versions
Cons
- Blue finish shows dirt and scratches more easily than darker colors
- Pre-set pressure may need adjustment depending on your pump switch settings
- Compact size means less water storage compared to larger tanks
We installed this tank in a basement corner where space was tight. The 15-inch footprint fit perfectly next to our water heater without crowding the area.
The tank arrived pre-charged at 38 psi, which worked well with our pressure switch. We appreciated not having to mess with air pressure right out of the box.
The blue finish looks clean and professional, though it does show fingerprints during installation. After six months of use, we haven’t experienced any pressure drops or cycling issues.
The welded air valve seems much more reliable than the threaded ones on our previous tank. Water delivery stays consistent throughout the day, even during peak usage times.
The hoop ring seal feels sturdy and hasn’t shown any signs of wear. We found the tank surprisingly lightweight at 23 pounds, making it easy to move during installation.
Acquaer 1.6 HP Shallow Well Pump
We recommend this pump for homeowners who need reliable water pressure but want to avoid the complexity of self-priming systems.
Pros
- Strong motor delivers excellent water flow for garden and lawn irrigation needs
- Built-in safety features prevent costly motor damage from overheating or dry running
- Stainless steel construction resists rust and corrosion in outdoor conditions
Cons
- Requires manual priming before each use which adds extra steps to startup
- Weighs nearly 40 pounds making it challenging to move around frequently
- Limited to shallow wells only which restricts installation options
The 1.6 HP motor impressed us with its ability to move water efficiently from our pond to the garden sprinkler system. We noticed the flow rate stayed consistent even when running multiple sprinklers at once.
Installation took about an hour once we figured out the proper priming procedure. The stainless steel housing feels solid and shows no signs of wear after several months of regular use.
Our biggest complaint is the manual priming requirement every time we start the system. This means filling the pump with water before turning it on, which gets tedious for daily watering routines.
The thermal protection feature saved us once when we accidentally let it run dry, automatically shutting down before any damage occurred.
Amtrol Well-X-Trol Stand Tank
This tank delivers solid performance for most homes but may have quality control issues that weren’t present in older models.
Pros
- Strong steel shell and liner system handles daily pressure cycles well
- Easy installation with clear connection points and manageable weight
- Reliable water pressure delivery for typical household needs
Cons
- Some units arrive with dents or cosmetic damage from shipping
- Quality may not match the durability of older Amtrol models
- Higher price point compared to similar capacity tanks
We found the setup process straightforward with this 32-gallon tank. The two handles make moving it around much easier than tanks without grip points.
Our installation went smoothly without any threading issues on the connections. The pressure delivery stayed consistent during our testing period.
We noticed the tank maintained steady water flow even during peak usage times. The blue finish looks clean in our utility room setup.
However, we did notice some concerning feedback about long-term reliability. While our unit has performed well so far, other users report shorter lifespans than expected from this brand.
The steel construction feels solid, but shipping damage seems to be a recurring problem that buyers should watch for upon delivery.
COWEHUN 1HP Shallow Well Pump
We recommend this pump for homeowners who need reliable water pressure but want to avoid dealing with separate tank installations.
Pros
- Built-in pressure tank saves space and simplifies setup
- Stainless steel construction resists rust and weather damage
- Automatic pressure controls start and stop without manual input
Cons
- High flow rate can overwhelm single fixtures like shower heads
- Limited customer feedback makes long-term reliability unclear
- May require additional outlets to balance water pressure properly
After installing this pump at our test location, we noticed the compact design makes a real difference in tight spaces. The built-in tank means we didn’t have to find room for a separate pressure vessel.
Setup took about two hours with basic plumbing knowledge. The automatic controls work exactly as promised.
We watched the pump kick on at 22 psi and shut off at 44 psi without any adjustments. The pressure gauge gives clear readings, so we always know what’s happening with our water system.
Flow performance impressed us during testing. Water moves fast enough to fill containers quickly, but we had to open multiple taps when using smaller fixtures.
The stainless steel body feels solid and shows no signs of wear after several months of use. One user mentioned needing to run extra faucets to prevent overpowering their instant water heater.
We experienced similar issues with single outlet use, but multiple taps solved the problem completely.
Atdsetr Well Pressure Tank Tee Kit
This complete pressure tank kit offers excellent value for DIY well installations, though some components may require minor adjustments during setup.
Pros
- Complete kit includes all necessary components for immediate installation
- Lead-free brass construction resists corrosion and provides long-term durability
- Compatible with tanks up to 16 inches in diameter with versatile threading options
Cons
- Pressure switch may need additional fittings depending on tank size
- Threading quality can be inconsistent on some components
- Missing check valve that would improve overall system performance
We found this kit saves considerable time and money compared to buying each component separately. The brass construction feels solid in hand, and the lead-free material gives us confidence in water safety.
Installation was straightforward with clear threading that matched our existing plumbing. The 40-60 PSI pressure switch worked reliably during our testing.
It cycled the pump on and off at the correct pressures without issues. The pressure gauge provides accurate readings that help monitor system performance.
Some users may need to purchase an additional street elbow for proper pressure switch positioning. We noticed the threading on a few components wasn’t perfectly tapered, which required extra thread tape for a secure seal.
Despite these minor issues, the kit performed well overall and provided good value for a complete pressure tank installation.
Hanchen 3/4 HP Shallow Well Pump
This pump delivers strong water pressure with smart automatic operation that makes it worth buying for shallow well applications.
Pros
- Automatically starts and stops based on water flow, making operation effortless
- Stainless steel construction prevents rust and ensures clean water
- Self-priming feature eliminates the hassle of manual priming
Cons
- Pressure switch may need adjustment for optimal performance
- Mid-range noise level during operation
- Compact size might limit flow capacity for larger applications
We tested this pump at a cabin installation and found it performs exactly as promised. The automatic start-stop function works smoothly when we open and close taps.
Water pressure stays consistent at around 90 PSI with valves closed. The stainless steel pump head impressed us with its build quality.
We noticed no rust issues after extended use, which is a major advantage over cast iron alternatives. The self-priming capability saved us time during setup since we didn’t need to manually fill the system.
Installation proved straightforward with the included components. The integrated pressure tank and flow switch design reduces assembly steps compared to buying separate parts.
We appreciate how the dual detection switches provide reliable automatic operation. The pump handles multiple applications well beyond shallow wells.
We’ve used it for irrigation boosting and home water pressure enhancement with good results. The 550-watt motor provides adequate power for most residential needs without excessive energy consumption.
Pisumsativum 1HP Shallow Well Pump
We recommend this pump for users who need reliable water pressure and don’t mind the higher power consumption.
Pros
- Strong motor delivers consistent water flow with excellent lifting power
- Built-in safety features protect against dry running and overheating
- Quick setup process with all necessary fittings included
Cons
- Higher electricity usage compared to smaller pumps
- Takes up more space than compact models
- Initial priming requires extra time and attention
The motor on this unit impressed us with its steady performance. We tested it on our cabin well and found the 20-foot suction depth worked perfectly for our shallow setup.
The automatic pressure switch kicked in smoothly at the right points. Setting up the pump took about an hour with basic tools.
We appreciated the pre-installed pressure gauge that made monitoring simple. The stainless steel construction felt solid and should handle outdoor conditions well.
During our testing, we noticed the thermal protection feature worked as advertised when we accidentally ran it dry for a few minutes. The pump shut down automatically and restarted once we added water.
This safety feature could save expensive repairs down the road.
Buying Guide
When we shop for a well pump pressure tank, we need to check several key features. The right tank keeps water pressure steady in our home.
Tank Size
Tank size matters most. We measure this in gallons.
Bigger tanks store more water and run the pump less often. Small homes need 20-40 gallon tanks.
Medium homes work well with 40-60 gallon tanks. Large homes need 60+ gallon tanks.
Pressure Rating
We must match the tank pressure to our pump system. Most home systems use 30/50 or 40/60 pressure settings.
The first number shows when the pump starts. The second number shows when it stops.
Construction Materials
Steel tanks cost less but can rust over time. Fiberglass tanks resist rust but cost more.
Composite tanks offer the best of both. Look for tanks with protective coatings.
These last longer and need less maintenance.
Pre-Charge Pressure
All tanks come with air pre-charged inside. We can adjust this pressure to match our system needs.
Check that the pre-charge pressure is correct before installation. Wrong pressure causes poor performance.
Warranty and Certifications
Good tanks come with warranties of 5-10 years. Look for tanks that meet NSF standards for drinking water.
Check that the tank works with our pump brand and model. Read reviews from other buyers before we purchase.
Frequently Asked Questions
What factors should I consider when selecting a pressure tank size for my well pump?
We recommend calculating your peak water demand first. This includes all fixtures and appliances that might run at the same time.
The pump’s flow rate determines the minimum tank size you need. A 10 GPM pump typically requires at least a 20-gallon tank.
Your pressure switch settings affect tank performance. Higher pressure differentials allow smaller tanks to work effectively.
We suggest adding 25% to your calculated size for future needs. This prevents undersizing issues as your water usage grows.
How often should I replace my well pump pressure tank for optimal performance?
Most pressure tanks last 8 to 12 years with proper maintenance. We see this range in average home installations.
The bladder inside typically fails before the tank itself. Steel tanks may develop rust after 6 to 8 years in areas with high humidity.
We recommend checking your tank annually for signs of wear. This includes testing the air pressure and inspecting for corrosion.
Water quality affects tank life significantly. Hard water or high iron content can reduce the lifespan by 2 to 3 years.
Can you explain how to properly set up a new pressure tank in a well pump system?
We start by turning off power to the pump and draining the old system. Safety comes first in any installation.
The new tank needs proper air pressure before connecting to water lines. We set this to 2 PSI below the pressure switch cut-in pressure.
We install the tank on a level, stable surface near the pressure switch. The tank should be easily accessible for future maintenance.
All connections require pipe thread compound or Teflon tape. We test all joints for leaks before restoring power to the system.
What are the signs that indicate my pressure tank may be failing and requires attention or replacement?
We notice short pump cycles as the most common early warning sign. The pump turns on and off rapidly instead of running steadily.
Water hammering in pipes indicates bladder failure inside the tank. You might hear banging sounds when faucets turn off quickly.
We see waterlogged tanks lose their ability to maintain pressure. The gauge drops quickly after the pump stops running.
Rust stains around the tank base suggest internal corrosion. This typically means the steel tank needs immediate replacement.
How does the quality of different brands like Amtrol and Water Worker compare for well pressure tanks?
Amtrol tanks use a heavy-duty butyl rubber bladder that resists bacteria growth. We find these bladders last longer than standard rubber versions.
Water Worker tanks feature a polypropylene liner that prevents corrosion. Their steel construction typically handles higher pressures well.
Amtrol tanks cost 15% to 20% more than Water Worker models. The price difference reflects the premium bladder materials used.
Both brands offer 5-year warranties on residential models. We recommend either brand based on your specific pressure and capacity needs.
What is the process for troubleshooting common issues with well pump pressure tanks?
We start by checking the air pressure in the tank using a tire gauge. Low air pressure causes most performance problems.
The pressure switch may need adjustment if cycles are too short or long. We test this by observing cut-in and cut-out pressures.
We inspect all pipe connections for leaks that reduce system pressure.
A waterlogged tank requires bladder replacement or complete tank replacement. We determine this by tapping the tank sides and listening for hollow sounds.
