I have a goulds jet pump 1/2 hp and pressure tank both replaced about 3 yrs ago also had all new well pipe and foot valve replaced- for about a month i,ve noticed pump kicking on when no water being used - at first it was about every 1 1/2 hr now it kicks on about every 1/2 hr- pump kicks on comes up to pressure [set @ 30/50] -shuts off - pressure slowly starts to fade to minimum pressure and cycles again. could i need to re-pressurize pressure tank.-tank came pre -charged @ 28lbs
Hi csp54,
- if your pump does this without any water usage, it's a sign of a small leak somewhere in the system . First, shut off the valve to house, when pressure is high. Watch the gauge and pump. If the pressure decreases and pump comes on now, then the leak is in tank, pump, or out to the well. Check visually all joints, look for even the slightest leak. If you find nothing, chances are it's underground or down the well.
There's an easy way we 'well guys' always tell if the footvalve or any other fitting down the well is leaking. Make up a small fitting to fit where the prime plug goes. It should be a T with a gauge on one side, a snifter(air valve like on a bike tire)on the other, and a nipple to fit the pump on the final one. (this can all be put together for less than $10 and may save you pulling a lot of pipe up) Close off between pump and tank, if you don't have a valve for this, remove the pipe from pump and plug the opening. Now, tape the fitting you made and screw in, when tight pump in about 60 psi. and watch it for 15 minutes. If it moves you have a leak - :cool:
Do it Right - Do it once.