Low Water Pressure
Low water pressure is a common problem for houses in Annapolis, Crownsville, and Gambrills. If you detect low pressure, surging of the water when a faucet is running, black or cloudy water there is a chance the bladder is defective. Most well tanks have rubber diaphragm that separates the water from the air in the tank. The well tank is pressurized between 20-30lbs from the factory. The rubber in the well tank breaks down after a period and causes the surging . I recommend draining the tank completely and checking the snifter valve on the well tank. The pressure should be at least 20lbs or just lower than the cut on point of the pressure switch. The ruptured bladder is a common problem and will cause the well pump to run in short cycles and can be very costly if not repaired. Call JP Plumbing at 410-757-8157 with any questions on testing the well tank or with any plumbing repair. Customers can also schedule service calls online @ jpplumbinginc.net .
Submitted by Jim Phaneuf
June 20, 2010
Md. Master Plumber # 6700