How to Fix A Waterlogged Galvanized Pressure Tank? [4 Easy Steps]


Stressful, right?

A flooded pressure tank might cause your pump to run nonstop. This can later result in motor burnout. But sitting tight won’t do anything. You must address the issue as quickly as possible. 

The question arises: how to fix a waterlogged galvanized pressure tank?

Firstly, consider acquiring an air-volume device to attach to your galvanized pressure tank. This mechanism regulates the air volume in the tank. Now, to fix your tank, you have to shut it off first. Then drain the pressure tank. After that, you need to inspect the air and the other settings. Finally, turn on the power of the pump.

This information is not enough for you. But we’ve got the details in depth. So make sure to go through it if you’ve some time.

Sounds about right? Let’s dive into the main part.

Symptoms & Causes of A Waterlogged Galvanized Pressure Tank 

Waterlogged galvanized pressure tanks are quite common nowadays. But how do you understand if it gets waterlogged? 

Well, a waterlogged galvanized pressure tank will give away some common symptoms. The possible signs are given below with their causes-

Repeated Clicking Sound

You might be hearing a lot of clicking noises when utilizing water in your home. It’s most likely the pressure switch. 

The pressure switch has contacts that detect the cut-off and cut-in pressure levels. It indicates whether the pump should be turned on or off. When the contacts are closed, they complete an electrical circuit. They also provide electricity to the pump.

When the contacts separate, the circuit is broken, and the pump is left without power. As a result, based on the electrical current, the pump knows when to turn on or off.

The pressure in your tank will be thrown off if it becomes wet. Thus, the pressure switch reacts by turning off and on again. 

As the contacts open and close at a quick rate, clicking sounds are produced. So, your pump starts and stops frequently when the electrical circuit opens and shuts again.

Water Pressure Fluctuation

When the air becomes trapped in pipes, it can result in variable temperatures. Additionally, as air and water pass through the pipes, it generates spluttering water pressure. A leaking suction line or damaged tank bladders might allow air into the pipes.

You’ll probably notice fluctuations in the water coming from the taps. Because a waterlogged tank can’t regulate its pressure adequately. For example-

The water pressure can be high at first, then drop, and fluctuate again.

Pressure Gauge Jumping

Normally, you set your cut-in and cut-off pressures beforehand. The needle on the pressure gauge will smoothly travel between 40 and 60 psi. This happens when you utilize water in your home.

However, the needle will hop back and forth irregularly in a waterlogged pressure tank. This happens due to faulty pressure regulation.

Short Cycling

You might see your tank is unable to properly regulate pressure. It provides mixed signals to the pump. The good pump will switch on and off repeatedly as a result of this. 

Short cycling is a problem that wreaks havoc on a pump motor. It’ll eventually result in an overheated and burned-out pump, which means no water.

Poor Quality of The Water

If you observe a drop in your water quality, it could be due to a clogged tank. In that case, your system can’t maintain the correct flow rate for water treatment devices. As a result, the quality of your water diminishes.

You might also see the water pressure is down.

A Fully Loaded Tank with Water

Lastly, listen for a hollow sound when you knock on the side of your tank. The tank should be mostly filled with air. If you don’t, your tank will most certainly be full of water.

These are the symptoms and possible reasons for your waterlogged galvanized pressure tank. Now, we’re going to the section where we’ll know about the steps to fix this.

4 Main Steps to Fix A Waterlogged Galvanized Pressure Tank

Following the causes, consider acquiring an air-volume device. So that you can attach it to your galvanized pressure tank.

You might also consider a variable air volume device for this.

This mechanism regulates the air volume in the tank. It ensures that you don’t have too much or too little air.

You might even think of getting a new tank then. But try out these steps before replacing your pump or buying a new tank.

Step 1: Kill The Power to The Pump

As you’re dealing with your pressure tank, you don’t want your pump to go haywire. So, shut off the pump. As a precaution, turn off the breaker as well.

Step 2: Drain The Tank

Drain the tank using a garden hose now. Connect the hose to the drain port. This is usually located near the bottom of the tank.

Place the water-draining end of the home where you want it to go. Then open the valve and wait for the water to drain completely.

Step 3: Inspect The Air And Settings 

Close the valve once the tank is empty. Check to see if your tank has an air-volume control device. Then double-check the pump actuator’s settings. Make sure that they are correct for your pump and tank.

Step 4: Give Power on The Pump And Inspect

Finally, turn on the pump’s electricity. Remember to turn the breaker back on. You might be hearing your pump short cycling. In that case, it’s advised to contact a professional. You may need a new pump, a new tank, or both.

Don’t know which pump to choose this time? Well, we’re here to help you out to choose the best one-

Product 1
Product 2

These products would have the best features required by the users. Just make sure there’s an expert to help you solve the problem. Because we don’t want any more mess!

These are the basic steps to fix your waterlogged galvanized pressure tank. 


Question: How to get water out of the pressure tank?
Answer: At the breaker or pump control switch, turn off the good pump. Connect a garden hose to the bottom of the good tank’s boiler drain. Connect the hose to the outside faucet. Turn the main shutoff valve off.

Question: How long does a pressure tank take to fill up?
Answer: The pressure tank fills at the pace that the pump can produce. The tank will fill in one minute if no one is using it. 

Question: How to pressurize a galvanized water tank?
Answer: Turning off the power to the pump is the simplest way to recharge a galvanized pressure tank. To relieve the pressure, open a nearby tap and drain the tank. Then, remove a pipe fitting or plug from the tank and let air (atmospheric pressure) in.

Final Words

Reading this gives you hope, right? You know how to fix a waterlogged galvanized pressure tank now! 

It’s also crucial to understand any warranties that come with your system. Most agreements do not cover pump failures or other issues caused by a flooded tank. As a result, make sure to address issues as soon as possible.

We hope you try out our steps and be successful to resolve the issue. Good luck!

Melissa Hawkins