MAINTENANCE GUIDE8 min read · Printable Checklist · Updated 2025
Well Pump Pressure Tank Maintenance Checklist
A quality pressure tank lasts 10–15 years. Most fail early because of one missed annual check. This checklist takes 15 minutes per year and prevents the two most expensive well system repairs — pump replacement and emergency tank failure.
Pressure Tank Lifespan With Proper Maintenance
Year 1Year 5Year 10Year 15+
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Best time to do this: Every spring before heavy water use begins. Set a recurring reminder on your phone for April 1st each year. The whole checklist takes about 15 minutes.
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Monthly Visual Check
MONTHLY — 2 MIN
Check for visible leaks around tank fittings
Look for water drips, mineral deposits, or rust stains at the tank connection point and pressure switch fitting.
Listen for unusual pump cycling
If you notice the pump turning on more frequently than usual — especially during low water use — investigate immediately.
Check pressure gauge reading
Note the pressure when pump is off. Should be between cut-in and cut-out values. A gauge that reads 0 or maximum constantly indicates a problem.
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Annual Full Inspection
ANNUAL — 15 MIN
Test 1 — Time your pump cycle
Open a faucet and time how long before the pump engages. Should be 30–90 seconds minimum. Under 15 seconds means waterlogging or undersized tank.
Test 2 — Schrader valve bladder test
Turn off pump, release pressure to zero, press Schrader valve pin. Air = bladder intact. Water = bladder failed, replace tank.
Test 3 — Check pre-charge air pressure
With pump off and pressure at zero, use tire gauge on Schrader valve. Should read 2 PSI below cut-in (e.g. 38 PSI for 40/60 switch). Add air if low — free fix.
Inspect tank exterior for rust and corrosion
Check welds, seams, and the bottom of the tank. Surface rust is cosmetic. Deep rust at seams or weeping moisture is a warning sign — budget for replacement.
Inspect pressure switch contacts
With power OFF, remove pressure switch cover. Contacts should be clean silver metal. Black or burnt contacts need replacement ($15–30 part).
Test pressure relief valve
Lift the PRV test lever briefly — water should flow freely then stop completely when released. If it drips after release, the valve needs replacement.
Check all pipe connections for corrosion
Inspect galvanized nipples and fittings connecting tank to system. Galvanized pipe near pressure tanks corrodes faster than copper — replace if flaking.
Record your readings
Write down today's pre-charge pressure, cut-in PSI, cut-out PSI, and cycle time. Comparing year-over-year trends catches problems early.
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Every 5 Years — Deep Check
EVERY 5 YEARS
Have well water tested
Acidic water (pH below 6.5) or high sediment destroys bladders faster. A $30 water test kit tells you if your water chemistry is attacking your tank.
Verify tank size is still adequate
If household size or water demand has grown since installation, your tank may now be undersized. Use our free calculator to recheck.
Inspect well pump amperage draw
A licensed electrician or well contractor can check if your pump is drawing more amperage than rated — an early sign of motor wear before visible failure.
Budget for tank replacement if over 10 years old
A tank over 10 years old that passes all tests is still on borrowed time. Start budgeting $200–450 for replacement so it does not become an emergency expense.
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Pro tip: Take a photo of your pressure gauge, tank label, and pressure switch settings each year when you do this checklist. Store it in a phone album labeled "Well System." You will thank yourself when something goes wrong.
What To Do If You Find a Problem
Low pre-charge pressure: Add air with a bicycle pump through the Schrader valve. Free fix, takes 5 minutes.
Water from Schrader valve: Bladder has failed. Use our calculator to size a replacement, then see our recommended tanks guide.
Burnt pressure switch contacts: Replace the switch — $15–30 at any hardware store, 20 minutes to swap.
Significant rust or corrosion: Have a plumber inspect. Surface rust is cosmetic but deep corrosion at welds can cause catastrophic failure.