The function of a well water tank is simply to store water for use. The sizes of well water tanks vary depending on the purpose for which it is used. For example, if it is used for domestic purposes, it is most likely small. On the other hand, if it is used for industrial purposes, it will definitely be a huge tank with a great storage capacity.
Where Does This Water Come From?
As a matter of fact, the source of water that is stored is the well itself. The stored water is transferred from the well to the tank by a pump. The lifespan of the pump depends on the tank.
How Does Well Water Enter The Tank?
When water is transferred to the tank, air that is present above gets compressed. There is a nozzle inside which is connected to the tap. When the tap is opened, water is let out of the tank through the nozzle. The air pressure above forces this water out.
The pump will force more water to enter once the air has finished pushing all the water out of it. Well water tanks come in different sizes. But the standardized size is about forty gallons. The tank has an approximate capacity of 151.4 liters.
Some well water tanks have bladder inside them. They are called bladder pressure tanks. As water starts filling the bladder, the air inside the tank is trapped between the bladder and the tank wall. Thus the air inside gets compressed until the air pressure equalizes with the pressure of the incoming water.
Now, if the tap is turned on, the water from inside gushes out. Diaphragm well water tank functions in a similar way. The only difference is that the diaphragm of this tank is a permanent one and it can not be replaced.
The size of well water tanks varies. But, the larger the tank is, the longer will it last. It is recommended that you buy a tank whose capacity is double the capacity of the pump. Too many people don't follow this simple advice because larger tanks cost more, but most of the time this turns out to be a bad decision.
Certain things are to be kept in mind while installing a well water tank. It should not be placed anywhere that the water has a chance of freezing. That means you don't want to bury it, especially if you live in a climate that gets cold in the winter. The best place for keeping these tanks are basements, utility rooms etc.
