Skip to main content
True Value
Project

Install New Expansion Tank — Prepare and Install New Tank Tee Assembly

Beginner

Part of project

How to Replace a Well Pressure Tank · Step 6 of 10

Helpful?

In this video

Wrap the threads of the new expansion tank with Teflon tape. Carefully lift the new tank into position and screw it into the boiler's pipe fitting. Since the new tank is empty, it will be much lighter and easier to handle. Tighten it by hand, then use a wrench to secure it, making sure it is snug but not overtightened.

Goal: Attach New Expansion Tank

Used in this video

  • Pipe Wrench (brand: Unspecified, Size: Large) — Tightening the new expansion tank.
571.7K views5.9K10 minutes
proclaimliberty2000

295K subscribers

View Channel

FAQs

What are the most critical safety steps I must take before beginning to replace my well pressure tank?

Absolutely always turn off the power to your well pump at the main electrical panel first. Then, fully drain the entire water system to relieve all pressure. This prevents electric shock, water damage, and injury from pressurized components.

How long should I expect this well pressure tank replacement to take, and what's the approximate material cost for a DIYer?

For a beginner, plan for 2-4 hours, assuming you have all tools and materials ready. The material cost, primarily for the new pressure tank and fittings, can range from $200 to $600, depending on the tank size and brand, plus a few dollars for tape and rags.

Why is correctly pre-charging the new well pressure tank so important, and what pressure should I set it to?

Pre-charging with air prevents the tank from becoming 'waterlogged' and ensures your pump cycles efficiently, extending its lifespan. Set the tank's air pressure (when empty) to 2 PSI below your well pump's 'cut-in' pressure (the pressure at which your pump turns on).

Which specialized tools are absolutely essential for replacing a well pressure tank, beyond basic household tools?

You'll definitely need a sturdy pipe wrench (like the 16-inch self-adjusting one mentioned) for plumbing connections, a tire pressure gauge to check the tank's pre-charge, and a water pressure gauge to monitor system pressure. Slip-joint pliers are also very helpful for various fittings.

Transcript
Hide

tank. Same thing with the expansion tank, just a little bit of Teflon tape on the threads and then this just screws into position and Teflon tape is just to assure that the threads themselves don't leak. The new tank is much lighter because it's not filled with water. This just screws into position and you can just use a wrench to tighten up a little bit. Once that tank is on and snug, you can then kind of reverse the sequence.

Auto-generated transcript. May contain errors.