What is an Accumulator Tank and do I Need One?
1/02/10 9:22 PM
All manufacturers have a range of accumulator tanks which will enhance the performance of most pressure pumps. An accumulator tank is a water chamber which has a pre-pressurized internal air bladder. They are designed to be installed downstream of your pump and 'dampen' water pressure spikes, reduce pump cycling, help increse the pump's life and save battery power.
The accumulator tank can be placed anywhere in the pressurized side of the plumbing. The ports are non-directional in flow and it doesn't need to be plumbed in line (one side can be plugged up)
Accumulator Tanks;
Reduce Unwanted Cycling
Reduce Pulsation
Reduce Pressure Skikes
Increase Pump Life
Save Battery Power
Do you need an accumulator tank?
Water flow Restrictions in a plumbing system may cause a pump to rapid cycle during low water flow demands. (Rapid cycle = On/OFF within 2 seconds). Cycling should be reduced to maximise pump life. To determine if pump adjustment is necessary, turn a tap ON to a lower than average water flow. The pump should cycle but its "OFF time" should be 2 seconds or longer.
* If cycling is correct, leave pump alone.
* If pump is rapid cycling, there may be proceedure to adjust the pump (see your pump's instruction manual)
* If cycling cannot be minimised, consider installing an accumulator tank

