Accumulator Tank Question

[JusDreaming]

We seem to not have as much pressure at the faucets as previously, before pump kicks on. I was wondering if re-pressurizing the tank is possible

[osirissail]

Usually all the accumulator tanks have a "tire valve stem" on them so you can pressurize the tank again, but you need to check the owner's manual to see what the air pressure should be.
- - The purpose of the accumulator tank is to hold an amount of water (depends upon the size of the tank) and then keep the boat's potable water system pressurized even when the potable water pump is not running. However, the amount of water is small so it quickly is expended and then the water pump restarts when it senses the water pressure fails below its preset low limit.
- - The purpose of the new VSD (Variable Speed Demand) pumps is to eliminate the need for an accumulator tank. The pump uses very low speed to keep the pressure up and as demand increases the pump speeds up.

[delmarrey]

The pump is what should determine the pressure. The accumulator only comes up to what the pump shuts off at. The accumulator is to keep the system from pulsating like the pump or give a nice smooth flow, but will not increase the pressure.

I'd check the pressure switch on the pump. Or check for leaks.

[Tellie]

I agree. Make sure you're not having pump pressure problems first before you accuse the accumulator tank. Once you start having accumulator or pump problems just switch to a VSD pump. You'll be glad you did for the rather small investment.

[zeehag]

check for air bubble in pump and leaks. did you place any additions inline??/ filters or anything--i noticed with mine those make a difference--slows down the flow like an impedence.

[Cheechako]

the pressure will be lower just before the pump kicks back on. The accumulator keeps the pump from kicking on every time you use it, so the internal diaphragm is pushing harder just after the pump completes it's pressurizing cycle.

[Bash]

Originally Posted by JusDreaming

We seem to not have as much pressure at the faucets as previously, before pump kicks on. I was wondering if re-pressurizing the tank is possible

You say the pressure is lower prior to when the pump kicks on. This being the case, by all means check your accumulator tank pressure. That's a chore that should be done at least once a year.