Quck answer
Yes, you can replace the bladder in a water pressure tank. The bladder is the inner component that holds the water and air separately. Over time, the bladder may become damaged or worn out, causing the tank to lose its ability to maintain pressure. To replace the bladder, you will need to drain the tank, remove the old bladder, and install a new one. It is important to choose a bladder that is compatible with your tank’s size and pressure rating. Proper installation and maintenance of the bladder will help ensure the longevity and efficiency of your water pressure tank.
It is possible to replace the bladder in certain water pressure tanks, but not all of them. The availability of a replacement bladder depends on the age of the tank and whether or not the tank has a removable cover. However, most plumbers would recommend replacing the entire pressure tank instead of just the bladder.
If the tank is old enough to have a failed bladder, there is a possibility that it also has internal corrosion, which may require replacement in a few years even if a new bladder is installed. The cost of a new pressure tank ranges from $400 to $800, while a replacement bladder, if available, costs $100 to $300. Depending on the size of the tank, there could be significant savings in the short term. However, replacing the bladder is not an easy task as it involves dealing with a heavy tank full of water, and the saved money may only provide a few additional years of service.
Identifying a Ruptured Pressure Tank Bladder
In a pressure tank, the bladder separates pressurized air (around 50 psi) from water. If the bladder ruptures, the air and water mix, resulting in a condition known as waterlogging. The following symptoms are indicators of a ruptured bladder:
- The pressure pump frequently cycles on and off because the tank cannot hold pressure. If this condition persists, the pump may wear out prematurely.
- Tapping on the top of the tank produces a dull thud instead of the expected pinging sound, which confirms that the bladder is intact and air is collecting near the top.
- Depressing the air valve on the top of the tank may cause water to spurt out. Normally, only air should be released.
- Air may spurt out of the faucets in your house.
Handling a Heavy Tank
When the bladder ruptures and water enters the tank, there is no way for the water to escape, making the tank extremely heavy. To successfully replace the bladder, the tank needs to be moved to a suitable work area and turned on its side. Even when empty, a 32-gallon pressure tank is heavy, and when filled with water, it weighs over 250 pounds, making it impossible for a single person to handle.
Multiple strong individuals may be able to maneuver and tip the tank, but in most cases, an overhead winch or a dolly is necessary for moving it. Additionally, assistance from a group of workers or mechanical help is required to tip the tank due to its awkward shape, even when empty. Allowing the tank to fall on its own can cause damage.
Procedure for Replacing the Bladder in the Tank
First, disconnect the tank from the plumbing and move it to a designated work area. Carefully, tip the tank on its side. Remove the elbow connector and jam nut from the bottom, and unscrew the cover, which can be found either on the top or bottom. Extract the old bladder and the threaded bottom connector from inside it. If the cover is on the top, stand the tank upright to install the new bladder. If the cover is on the bottom, leave the tank on its side.
Thoroughly examine the replacement bladder for any holes. If the cover is on the top, insert the bottom connector into the bladder and roll up the bladder. Insert the rolled bladder into the tank through the top. The connector will drop to the bottom, and you will need to retrieve it through the hole at the bottom of the tank. Once retrieved, securely fasten the jam nut and elbow connector (it is easier to do this with the tank on its side) using plumbing tape and/or thread seal to ensure a tight connection.
If the cover is on the bottom, simply insert the bladder, feed the connector through the cover, replace the cover, and install the jam nut and elbow connector. Use an air compressor to charge the tank with air to the pressure specified by the manufacturer of your pressure pump. Finally, reconnect the tank to the plumbing and turn on the water supply.
