Prepare the New Expansion Tank — Prepare and Install New Tank Tee Assembly
Part of project
How to Replace a Well Pressure Tank · Step 6 of 10
In this video
Before installing the new tank, you must prepare it. First, use a tire pressure gauge to check the air pressure inside the new tank. It should match your home's static water pressure (the video's pressure was 40 PSI). Use an air pump to add or release air as needed. Next, clean the male threads on the copper pipe fitting with a wire brush to remove any old Teflon tape or debris. Finally, wrap the female threads of the new expansion tank with several layers of Teflon tape, wrapping in a clockwise direction to ensure it doesn't unravel when screwed on.
Goal: Set pressure and seal threads on the new tank
- Wrap the Teflon tape clockwise (in the same direction you will tighten the tank) to prevent it from bunching up or unraveling during installation.
Used in this video
- Wire Brush — Cleaning the threads on the copper pipe fitting.
- Air Pump — Adjusting the air pressure inside the new expansion tank.
- Tire Pressure Gauge — Checking the air pressure of the new tank and the house's water pressure.
295K subscribers
FAQs
What are the most critical safety steps I must take before beginning to replace my well pressure tank?
Absolutely always turn off the power to your well pump at the main electrical panel first. Then, fully drain the entire water system to relieve all pressure. This prevents electric shock, water damage, and injury from pressurized components.
How long should I expect this well pressure tank replacement to take, and what's the approximate material cost for a DIYer?
For a beginner, plan for 2-4 hours, assuming you have all tools and materials ready. The material cost, primarily for the new pressure tank and fittings, can range from $200 to $600, depending on the tank size and brand, plus a few dollars for tape and rags.
Why is correctly pre-charging the new well pressure tank so important, and what pressure should I set it to?
Pre-charging with air prevents the tank from becoming 'waterlogged' and ensures your pump cycles efficiently, extending its lifespan. Set the tank's air pressure (when empty) to 2 PSI below your well pump's 'cut-in' pressure (the pressure at which your pump turns on).
Which specialized tools are absolutely essential for replacing a well pressure tank, beyond basic household tools?
You'll definitely need a sturdy pipe wrench (like the 16-inch self-adjusting one mentioned) for plumbing connections, a tire pressure gauge to check the tank's pre-charge, and a water pressure gauge to monitor system pressure. Slip-joint pliers are also very helpful for various fittings.
Prepare the New Expansion Tank — Prepare and Install New Tank Tee Assembly
Part of project
How to Replace a Well Pressure Tank · Step 6 of 10
In this video
Before installing the new tank, you must prepare it. First, use a tire pressure gauge to check the air pressure inside the new tank. It should match your home's static water pressure (the video's pressure was 40 PSI). Use an air pump to add or release air as needed. Next, clean the male threads on the copper pipe fitting with a wire brush to remove any old Teflon tape or debris. Finally, wrap the female threads of the new expansion tank with several layers of Teflon tape, wrapping in a clockwise direction to ensure it doesn't unravel when screwed on.
Goal: Set pressure and seal threads on the new tank
- Wrap the Teflon tape clockwise (in the same direction you will tighten the tank) to prevent it from bunching up or unraveling during installation.
Used in this video
- Wire Brush — Cleaning the threads on the copper pipe fitting.
- Air Pump — Adjusting the air pressure inside the new expansion tank.
- Tire Pressure Gauge — Checking the air pressure of the new tank and the house's water pressure.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most critical safety steps I must take before beginning to replace my well pressure tank?
Absolutely always turn off the power to your well pump at the main electrical panel first. Then, fully drain the entire water system to relieve all pressure. This prevents electric shock, water damage, and injury from pressurized components.
How long should I expect this well pressure tank replacement to take, and what's the approximate material cost for a DIYer?
For a beginner, plan for 2-4 hours, assuming you have all tools and materials ready. The material cost, primarily for the new pressure tank and fittings, can range from $200 to $600, depending on the tank size and brand, plus a few dollars for tape and rags.
Why is correctly pre-charging the new well pressure tank so important, and what pressure should I set it to?
Pre-charging with air prevents the tank from becoming 'waterlogged' and ensures your pump cycles efficiently, extending its lifespan. Set the tank's air pressure (when empty) to 2 PSI below your well pump's 'cut-in' pressure (the pressure at which your pump turns on).
Which specialized tools are absolutely essential for replacing a well pressure tank, beyond basic household tools?
You'll definitely need a sturdy pipe wrench (like the 16-inch self-adjusting one mentioned) for plumbing connections, a tire pressure gauge to check the tank's pre-charge, and a water pressure gauge to monitor system pressure. Slip-joint pliers are also very helpful for various fittings.