Understanding the Amtrol Well-X-Trol WX-350 Pressure Tank
The Amtrol Well-X-Trol WX-350 is designed for high-demand water systems requiring a large pressurized water reserve. With a capacity of 119 gallons, it supports large homes, estates, agricultural operations, and light-commercial setups by reducing pump cycling and ensuring consistent pressure. While its robust construction aims to provide reliable operation, understanding the common faults that develop over time can help in diagnosing and fixing issues effectively.
Common Faults in the Well-X-Trol WX-350 and How to Diagnose Them
1. Loss of Pressure or Inconsistent System Pressure
A frequent problem in pressure tanks is a drop in system pressure or fluctuations that lead to inconsistent water flow. This issue often manifests as water hammer, what may sound like knocking noises, or noticeable pressure drops during operation.
Diagnosis: Check the pressure gauge on the tank. If the pressure is below the recommended pre-charge (usually 2 psi below cut-in pressure), the tank may be experiencing a loss of pre-charge. Inspect for any visible leaks or damaged diaphragm that can cause pressure loss.
2. Excessive Pump Cycling or Short Cycling
This fault occurs when the tank fills and empties rapidly, causing the pump to frequently turn on and off. Short cycling can lead to reduced equipment lifespan and increased energy costs.
Diagnosis: Observe the pump's behavior during use. If the pump frequently cycles without significant water draw, the tank's drawdown capability may be compromised, possibly due to a damaged diaphragm or an incorrect pre-charge setting.
3. No Water Delivery or Reduced Water Output
If the tank is not delivering water as expected, it may be due to a failure in the diaphragm or a blockage in the system. This leads to the inability of the tank to store and supply pressurized water effectively.
Diagnosis: Confirm whether the pump is operating correctly. If the pump runs but no water is delivered, inspect the tank for diaphragm failure by listening for any hissing sounds or by removing access points for inspection.
Steps to Fix the Most Common Faults
1. Restoring Proper Pressure
- Turn off the pump and relieve system pressure by opening a faucet or drain valve.
- Use a pressure gauge to check the pre-charge pressure in the tank; it should be 2 psi below the pump cut-in pressure.
- If necessary, add air using a standard bicycle pump or a compressor to reach the correct pre-charge.
- Close the air valve, restore system pressure, and turn the pump back on. Monitor system operation for stability.
2. Addressing Short Cycling
- Ensure the tank has the proper pre-charge setting; an incorrect pre-charge can cause short cycling.
- Inspect the diaphragm for damage or wear. If the diaphragm is compromised, replacement of the tank or diaphragm assembly is required.
- Verify that the water system's demand aligns with the tank's capacity to prevent overworking the tank.
3. Replacing or Repairing the Diaphragm
- For tanks with removable access points, inspect the diaphragm for signs of damage or deterioration—such as tears, holes, or material fatigue.
- If damage is found, the diaphragm will need to be replaced, or the entire tank should be considered for replacement if affected extensively.
- Follow manufacturer instructions for replacing the diaphragm safely and properly.
Preventative Maintenance Tips
- Regularly check the system pressure and pre-charge to maintain optimal operation.
- Periodically inspect the tank and fittings for leaks or corrosion.
- Ensure that incoming water pressures are within recommended ranges to avoid over-stressing the tank components.
- Schedule professional inspections if persistent faults occur despite troubleshooting efforts.
Conclusion
While the Amtrol Well-X-Trol WX-350 is built for demanding applications, issues like pressure loss, short cycling, and water delivery failures can still develop over time. Diagnosing these faults involves checking system pressure, inspecting diaphragms, and observing pump behavior. Following proper maintenance and troubleshooting steps can extend the operational lifespan of your tank and ensure your water system remains reliable and efficient.
What local testing usually reveals
Water testing in this area often reveals a variety of common contaminants, such as iron, manganese, and hardness minerals. Elevated levels of these elements can lead to staining on fixtures, reduced appliance efficiency, and decreased water quality. In many cases, homeowners will find that the water's pH level falls outside the recommended range, which can also affect the efficacy of treatment systems like the Amtrol Well-X-Trol WX-350.
When interpreting water test results, homeowners should focus on the concentration levels of these contaminants, typically measured in parts per million (ppm). For example, iron levels over 0.3 ppm may cause staining, while hardness over 7 grains per gallon can lead to scale buildup. A pH below 6.5 can indicate corrosive water, which may necessitate additional treatment to protect plumbing and fixtures.
