A hydraulic accumulator is a unit that is used to maintain pressure and create a reserve of water for domestic purposes when the pump is turned off. This device is presented in the form of a water tank with a rubber elastic membrane located inside it. The membrane itself has a hermetic connection with the metal body of the tank, which is carried out using a flange. The space located between the metal case and the membrane is filled with compressed air.
Without the use of this unit, it is quite difficult to imagine the qualitative functioning of the entire. Accordingly, the question of choosing this device is as acute as possible. In the absence of certain knowledge in this area, it is quite difficult to choose the most suitable device. In this context, it would be appropriate to decide on the involvement of an external specialist in order to obtain advisory guidance.
The principle of operation of the accumulator
The hydraulic accumulator consists of a metal case and a membrane. The device also has a flange with a bypass valve and a nipple designed for pumping water. The principle of operation of the device is quite simple.
At the initial stage, the pump begins to pump water, which subsequently enters the rubber membrane inside the hydraulic accumulator. The container is filled until the pressure reaches its maximum. The level of this indicator can be pre-set on the relay-regulator. When the maximum pressure is reached, the pump switches off automatically. It should be noted that the frequency of switching on and off the pump directly depends on the volume of the accumulator - the larger it is, the less often this procedure will be carried out.
Thanks to the installed hydraulic accumulator, the pressure inside the water supply system is able to hold out for a certain period of time. This will slightly support the performance of the entire system.
Types of accumulators
First of all, when choosing hydraulic accumulators, you should pay attention to the volume of the device, which can vary from 24 to 1000 liters. To do this, you must first analyze the amount of water that is regularly consumed for domestic purposes. If we talk about the minimum needs in the form of a toilet, shower, kitchen, watering the beds in the adjacent area, then it is quite possible to get by with a battery with a volume of 24 liters. If we are talking about more global goals, then you should use a more substantial device. As a last resort, if it is necessary to increase the volume of water consumed, a second hydraulic accumulator of the minimum size can be additionally installed.
Classification by installation method
On this basis, hydraulic accumulators can be horizontal or vertical. The difference between such devices lies not only in the method of placement, but also in the different removal of excess air.
- In hydraulic accumulators vertical type installation of a fitting with a valve through which air is released is provided. In horizontal hydraulic accumulators, it is necessary to use an additional section of the water supply, which consists of a ball valve, a drain and an air outlet nipple. It should also be noted here that there is no valve in horizontal hydraulic accumulators of a minimum volume.
- Hydraulic accumulators horizontal type are used for the subsequent installation of external pumps on them. Vertical ones are used while working with submersible pumps.
Classification by purpose
It should be noted here that there are three types of hydraulic accumulators. Each of them has its own design features and different operating conditions.
- The first of these are intended for cold water. They are used for the purpose of supplying and accumulating fluid. In addition, such devices are able to perform a protective function, minimizing possible damage from mechanical impact resulting from water hammer during pressure surges.
- The second type of accumulators is used for hot water. The peculiarity of this device lies in the fact that it is able to function at the highest possible temperature indicators of the liquid.
- The third type of hydraulic accumulators is used for heating systems and is a very important element. Such accumulators look like expansion tanks.
Features of connecting to a surface pump
The hydraulic accumulator can be connected to a surface or submersible pump. The technology of work in different cases will be slightly different. When connecting to a surface pump, you should first pay attention to checking the air pressure in the tank. To carry out the procedure, you may need a fitting with five outlets, a pressure gauge, tow and sealant.
The sequence of actions will look like this:
- Tank pressure check.
- Connecting the fitting to the tank.
- Relay connection.
- Manometer connection.
- Connecting the pipe leading to the pump.
- Testing and launching the system.
The fitting here is necessary for a high-quality connection of the pump, accumulator, pressure gauge and relay. The fifth exit may be needed to connect the water pipe leading to the house.
At the initial stage, the fitting should be connected to the tank using a rigid hose or flange. After that, a pressure gauge, a regulator and a pipe coming from the pump are screwed to it.
Important! At the end of the work, it is necessary to seal it very well all threaded connections through the use of tow and special sealant. It is necessary to start the pump only after a thorough examination of all areas for the presence of a leak.
Features of connecting to a submersible pump
A submersible pump, unlike a surface pump, is located directly or in a well. From there, the water flows directly into the hydraulic accumulator. When connecting the device in this case, it is very important to focus on the installation of a check valve, which is necessary to prevent water from being squeezed out by the membrane.
The hydraulic accumulator in this case is installed on the pump before water supply. In some cases, a thread is cut on the cover of the water pumping device. This is necessary in order to facilitate the installation procedure.
Be very careful when installing the check valve. This solution will help prevent the membrane from squeezing water back into the well. This directly affects the quality of functioning.
After the installation of the check valve has been successfully completed, you can begin to resolve the next issue, which is to connect the pipe for the water supply. First measure the length of the pipe. To do this, you can use a simple rope with a load at the end. It is necessary to measure data from the very edge of the well to the pump. It is advisable to make sure that, after calculating the length, the pump can hang above the surface of the bottom of the well at a height of approximately 20 or 30 cm.
In the water supply chain is the key point of the autonomous water supply system.
This device is designed to solve not only the issue of creating a small reserve of water, but also to save the owners of cottages and private houses from variable pressure in the network.
Due to its design, the hydraulic tank also makes it possible to reduce the operation of the pumping station, thereby extending its service life.
Equipment
As practice shows, the minimum possible volume of hydraulic accumulators for installation in a private house or cottage should not have a volume of less than 24 liters.
It is desirable that this value be slightly higher than the required requirement in order to create a small stock.
The main point when choosing will be the peak value of water demand, as well as the capacity of the pumping station. At the same time, the amount of water that will be in the hydraulic accumulator should be enough so that even at maximum load, the pump turns on no more than 30 times in one minute.
Usually the volume of the necessary hydraulic accumulator is determined based on the number of consumers (bath, washing machine, etc.). The more there are, the correspondingly higher the value of the volume should be.
And if you install an option smaller in volume than required, you can buy another hydraulic tank and install it in addition to the first one, their volume will be summed up.
It's important to know: the material of the membrane must be suitable for the expected load on it.
Also, during the selection, it should be borne in mind that the volume of water inside the tank will occupy no more than half of the total volume. It should also be taken into account that small versions of gyroaccumulators are ineffective in dealing with water hammers, and if you install an excessively large one, then water stagnation is possible in them.
For larger models, there must be a solid base to support the considerable weight of the device and the water in it.
In order to more optimally choose a hydraulic tank, it is advisable to carry out the calculation by contacting specialists.
Accommodation
Some options can be placed in the basement or on the ground floor, everything here will depend on the power of the option, and at what height the water will have to be supplied.
It is best to install the accumulator at the highest point of the house in order to create maximum pressure in the network. In this case, you can use both the attic and the second floor (in the case of a two-story house).
The place of installation must not have high humidity. The reason is that in this case, condensation will form on the surface of the tank. Over time, it will first destroy the paintwork of the hydraulic tank, and then lead to metal corrosion. The surface on which the installation will take place must be reliable and even.
Before installing the unit, you must first check the air pressure level, whether it corresponds to the required values. Because in the future, after its installation, in order to make such a measurement, you will have to drain the water and turn off the pump.
Procedure
The installation scheme for connecting this device should be determined by the various design features of the system to which it is connected, as well as the type of pumping station used to supply water.
There are several connection options in total, which depend on the type of pump used:
- submersible option, which must be placed in the water;
- surface, attached closer to the accumulator.
Due to the peculiarities of their design, the schemes for connecting storage systems differ.
So, using a surface pump, the procedure will be as follows:
All threaded connections sit on the FUM tape, in accordance with generally accepted rules for such connections. After that, you can start operating the installed accumulator.
Take into account: it is desirable to install such units closer to pumping stations, for greater efficiency.
Connection using a submersible pump is as follows:
- First of all, the pump itself must be immersed in water. After that, the pressure hose coming from it is connected to the same collector as described above.
- Further from the same collector we make a tap for the accumulator.
- The last step is to connect another pipe to the water supply, and the rest to the pump control system.
But, there is one feature in the connection.
It is necessary to place a check valve between the manifold and the pump to prevent the water from draining back into the well after the water supply is turned off.
It is advisable to install it directly at the neck of the pump nozzle. And the water from this entire system should flow into the tap after the filter. (You can read more about connecting a hydraulic accumulator to a submersible pump in).
Watch the video in which the specialist explains how to install a hydraulic accumulator for a water supply system with your own hands:
An indispensable device in modern water supply systems is not only a pump. Very often it is supplemented with a hydraulic accumulator, which can either come with the pump or be bought and installed separately.
Installing a hydraulic accumulator is a very useful solution that improves the quality of work. Let us consider in more detail how this mechanism is arranged, how it works and how it is mounted.
1 The device of the accumulator and the principle of its operation
First, let's describe the device of a hydraulic accumulator: this is a container with a metal case, inside of which there is a membrane (or a cylinder, depending on the design). Pressure is created between it and the walls of the case - thanks to the compressed air pumped into the space.
Most often, the installation is used in water supply, but it is also important to use a hydraulic accumulator for heating - it is also suitable for this.
The tasks of the mechanism are as follows:
- Water accumulation.
- Maintaining stable pressure in the system.
- Supplying the system with water when the pump is not running.
The principle of operation is as follows: water enters the membrane, pumped by the pump. The membrane is filled and fills the space inside the case (naturally - for a certain volume).
On the other hand, the pumped air begins to press on the water, thereby displacing it into the water supply system. At the same time, the pump works until a certain moment - until the water pressure inside the tank reaches a certain limit.
After that, the unit turns off, and the air that acts on the network begins to “squeeze out” the water into the network. Well, when the liquid leaves the tank, and the pressure drops to a certain (only now - the minimum) mark, the pump will again turn on from the automatic control unit.
1.1 Classification
The range of products on the market is quite extensive, so it will be useful for the buyer to first know what they are, how they are classified, and which model is better to choose.
The differences lie in a number of factors, each of which should be mentioned.
According to the location of the container - the device can be both horizontal and vertical.
By the type of working part - there may also be differences. In this regard, there are two variations: a membrane or a balloon. In the first case, the space inside the tank is divided into two parts by a membrane: water flows into one, and air is pumped into the second.
In the second case, an elastic container is enclosed inside the container, into which liquid enters, and air is pumped into the free space between its walls and the body walls.
Separately, it is required to mention the volume - this, in fact, is the key parameter of any capacity. The most popular sizes are 24, 50, 100 and 200 liters. However, on sale you can also find containers of a different volume - for 6, 12, or vice versa - for 300 liters.
There are also larger devices - for example, the Aquasystem accumulator, which can be up to 2000 liters in volume. The Reflex accumulator has a smaller capacity - the largest model has a volume of 1000 liters. The Wester accumulator has the same limits.
Also, the material from which the membrane (balloon) is made deserves detailed attention. It can be either butyl or rubber. The differences are quite significant:
- butyl has an upper temperature limit of +99 degrees;
- for rubber, this mark is lower - only +50 degrees.
This is a very important nuance for those who choose a device for heating. However, most often the devices of modern manufacturers (the same Aquasystem accumulator) use butyl.
And finally, it is required to mention the manufacturers of products of this type. Above, several names that are most popular have already been mentioned. This is a Wester and Aquasystem hydraulic accumulator. Models of these brands are included in the high-budget segment, however, the quality is appropriate.
The Reflex accumulator is already cheaper, but at the same time it is practically not inferior in quality. In addition to these names, Gilex can also be distinguished, which is quite popular in the Russian market for its positive qualities: cheapness and reliability.
1.2 How to correctly calculate the volume of the accumulator?
In principle, the main point that deserves attention is the volume of the tank. The material of the membrane (cylinder) was also mentioned above, however, such devices are used less frequently for heating, so we will focus on the capacity.
It should be said right away that models with several hundred liters (for example, an Aquasystem VAV 2000 accumulator for 2000 liters or a Wester Line WAV 1000 accumulator for 1000) are suitable for providing water to large buildings (hotels, hospitals - for example).
For an ordinary residential building, there will be a lot of such a volume, and buying such a model will be a waste of money. Moreover, they cost quite a lot: for example, the mentioned Wester Line WAV 1000 accumulator will cost more than 10 thousand dollars, and the Aquasystem VAV 2000 accumulator will cost three dozen at all.
For a cottage in which 3-4 people permanently live, there will be enough capacity of up to 100-200 liters (and this is with a huge margin). Often, buyers in such conditions are limited to models of 24-50 liters (for example, an Aquasystem VAV 50 accumulator or a Wester Line WAV 50 accumulator).
An increase to 100-200 liters is relevant if there are more residents in the house, and / or there are a large number of water intake points (2 toilets and 5-10 taps - for example). In this case, you should pay attention to the Wester Line WAV 100 accumulator or the Aquasystem VAV 100 accumulator.
For accuracy, we will give a more detailed calculation that will help the buyer more accurately select the appropriate device.
2 Stages and nuances of installation
We figured out how to perform the calculation and how to choose a device. Now it is required to mention how exactly the accumulator is connected to the water supply system. If you wish, you can do this work yourself - if you follow the tips below, then there should be no difficulties.
It does not matter which model is connected - a Reflex accumulator for a couple of tens of liters or a tank for 300 liters.
The preparation looks like this:
- First of all, you need to choose a place where the equipment will stand: an automatic water supply station and, in fact, the tank itself. They do not have to be placed side by side, but most often this is done that way.
- The pressure inside the container is checked. It is necessary that this indicator be approximately 0.2-1 atmospheres lower than the parameter set on the automatic pump start relay. Otherwise, you can (and should) adjust it yourself.
Now you need to take care of the necessary details for connection:
- A fitting with 5 outlets: for the tank itself, for the automatic switch-on relay, for the pressure gauge, for the pump and, in fact, for the water line itself.
- Pressure gauge (with a scale of up to 10 atmospheres).
- FUM tape (for sealing joints).
Now - consider how exactly you can make the connection with your own hands:
- The fitting is connected to the tank using a hose.
- A pressure gauge, relay, pump and are connected to other outlets of the fitting. Each connection is pre-sealed with FUM tape.
Upon completion of work, a test run of the pump should be performed to determine the tightness of the system. To do this, you need to carefully examine the connection points: there should be no leaks along them.
When connecting a pressure switch with your own hands, be sure and very carefully look at the marks that are applied under its cover. Two of them are "Network" and "Pump", and under no circumstances should they be confused. It is possible that these marks will not appear at all (some models also have this) - in this case, it is recommended not to connect with your own hands, but to use the help of an electrician.
2.1 How is the hydraulic accumulator arranged? (video)
Today it is unthinkable to imagine a house without a water supply system. But sometimes there are cases when water cannot always reach one or another draw-off point. Then the accumulator comes to the rescue, which regulates the pressure in the network. Next, we will talk about which scheme for connecting the accumulator to the water supply system is effective.
Hydraulic accumulator device
For the normal operation of the water supply system in the house, in some cases, a hydraulic accumulator is installed on the network section, which is a container with a metal case. Inside the tank is a rubber "pear", which plays the role of a membrane. The hydraulic accumulator, which is a link in the water supply system, accumulates a certain volume of water under pressure. During the operation of plumbing fixtures, dishwashers or washing machines, the accumulator supplies the network with water.
The rubber membrane is fixed to the tank body by a flange, the design of which includes an inlet pipe. Inside, the accumulator is designed in such a way that between the inner walls of the cylinder and the rubber "pear" there is air, which is compressed after it is pumped into the container by a pump - bicycle or automobile. When pumping water into the tank, the volume of which is limited to a pear, compressed air counteracts the further expansion of elastic rubber, thereby protecting it from rupture. At the same time, compressed air provides the necessary pressure in the network.
If we take into account the design of a typical hydraulic accumulator, we can distinguish the following components:
- a housing, which is a hermetically manufactured tank, which is designed for a working pressure in the range of 1.5–6 atmospheres. This value can be increased to 10 atmospheres under the condition of a short-term load;
- "Pear", which is an elastic membrane. It is attached to the inlet of the tank and is located inside the cylinder. The flow of water occurs through the passage flange, which is equipped with a valve and is fixed to the neck of the accumulator tank.
- nipple, which is arranged on the other side of the body - opposite to the location of the through flange. The nipple is designed to pump air through it into the space of the battery, which is formed between the outer surface of the "pear" and the walls of the case from the inside.
In addition to the main elements, legs are welded to the drive for stability, located at the bottom of the body, and a support bracket for installing a surface-type pumping unit, which is located in the upper part of the cylinder.
Depending on the place of application, hydraulic accumulators are divided into:
- products for work in system of cold water supply;
- devices for functioning in the hot water supply network;
- expansion tanks for heating systems.
The hydraulic accumulator for supplying cold water is designed in such a way that it accumulates and supplies liquid, and also has the ability to avoid water hammer in the network and protect the pump unit from unnecessary inclusions. An analogue that supplies consumers with hot water has the same characteristics as the above product. The difference lies only in the properties of the membrane, which is able to withstand high temperatures. The purpose of the expansion tank in heating systems is to compensate for the expansion of water.
The principle of operation of the accumulator
The water supply system, in the circuit of which there is a hydraulic accumulator, works according to a certain scheme.
- Starting from the water intake, which can be a water supply system, a well or a well, water is supplied through the pipeline to the accumulator, namely, to the rubber “pear”.
- In the rubber membrane, using a control relay that determines the lower and upper thresholds of the required parameter, the pump creates pressure, for example, 1–3 atmospheres.
- After reaching the setpoint pressure in the device, the pump automatically switches off.
- After the consumer opens the faucet on the sink or turns on the dishwasher, the membrane begins to push water out of the accumulator and supply it through the network to the draw-off point.
- When the pressure in the device drops to a critically low level, the relay is activated and the pump automatically starts its work. But first you need to connect the pump to the accumulator.
The number of pump starts per unit of time directly depends on the volume of the cylinder. The smaller the tank, the more frequently the pump will turn on. With this option, the pump and valve flange will run out of working resources faster. Since the cylinder is not affected by external loads, it is not necessary to additionally fix it to the floor. To ensure the stability of the accumulator, its own legs are enough.
Options with a choice of accumulator
Hydraulic accumulators come in different designs and volumes - from compact devices for 24 liters to overall products for 1000 liters. When choosing a drive, you need to consider the volume of water that is used by consumers in the house. If no more than two people live in the house and a minimum of plumbing fixtures and household items are installed, then it is enough to purchase a tank with a volume of 24 liters. If, based on various factors, the water consumption is large, then the accumulator must be installed in a larger size and volume. It is necessary to calculate how many water points can work at the same time and, based on the calculated flow rate, select a suitable capacity. If the water supply system is already equipped, and the situation has changed in the house - the number of residents has increased or, for example, a washing machine has been added, then you need to change the battery to a larger one or deliver another tank.
Wiring diagram for surface pump version
Before connecting the accumulator for water supply, it is necessary to check the air pressure in the tank. It must be less than the pressure of the pump when turned on, which is set on the relay, by a value of up to 1 bar. To connect a tank to the pump, you need to purchase a fitting with outputs in the amount of 5 pieces, a relay that regulates pressure, a pressure gauge and sealant in the form of tow or FUM tape.
- One of the important details when installing a hydraulic accumulator is a 5-way fitting. Through this part, a pump, relay and pressure gauge are connected to the tank. Another 1 fitting outlet is intended for connecting a water supply system, which branches to water intake points. At the initial stage, the fitting is connected to the tank through a rigid hose or directly through the through flange with a valve. Then, an adjustable relay and a pressure gauge are screwed to the separating part, as well as a pipe that is routed further from the pump.
- Particular attention must be paid to the connection of the relay that controls the pressure. The device has a top cover that needs to be removed. Under it there will be 4 contacts with the inscriptions "network" and "pump". Due to their presence, it is difficult to confuse the connection of wires. According to the marks, the wires connected from the pump and going to the network are connected.
Not all manufacturers put inscriptions on the relay, counting on the knowledge of the fitter. If the person involved in connecting the relay does not know which contact to connect this or that wire to, it is better to contact a professional electrician.
All threaded connections must be carefully sealed. Tow or FUM tape is suitable for this work. In conclusion, you need to turn on the pump unit, after which it is necessary to visually and by touch check the installation sites for leaks.
Wiring diagram for version with submersible pump
Already by the name it can be understood that the submersible pump is placed in the aquatic environment of a well or well, from where water is supplied directly to the accumulator. The water supply system with such a pump must be equipped with a check valve. This detail does not allow water after the membrane to return to the deep water intake. As a rule, the check valve is mounted directly on the pump, while the other end is connected to the pressure pipeline. There are varieties of pumps in which the fitting on the cover has an internal thread. Then, during installation, you need to use a part on which 2 external threads are cut. Following the check valve is a pipe that is laid to the accumulator.
When installing the pump, it must be taken into account that the unit should not reach the bottom of the well or well by about 30 cm.
Video
The video provided shows how the pump is connected to the accumulator.
Traditionally, hydraulic accumulators are in demand in the private sector and in settlements with problematic water supply. This device allows you to make any water supply system more efficient. Installation and operation of a hydraulic accumulator is a simple matter, but, as elsewhere, there are some nuances here that should be understood in more detail.
Purpose
This device allows you to reduce the load on the water pump: when pumping from a well, well or other container, part of the water enters the reservoir of the accumulator. Thus, the water from the tank will be used first, and the pump will turn on again only when the tank is empty. In general terms, a hydraulic accumulator allows you to reduce the number of turns on and off of the water pump. And also this device minimizes the likelihood of water hammer, which increases the period of maintenance-free operation of the entire water supply system. In heating systems, a hydraulic accumulator is used as an "expansion tank": excess heated water goes into the reservoir of the hydraulic tank, reducing the total pressure in the system.
Connecting a hydraulic accumulator with your own hands, for example, through passage or deep, is not difficult at all, given the recommendations of specialists.
Device, principle of operation and types
Regardless of the brand, configuration and intended purpose, practically all hydraulic accumulators have a similar design, including the following elements:
- case on the rack (legs or reinforcing "shoes");
- a membrane or rubber "pear" for pressurizing, which is located inside the housing;
- nipples for air supply, which are equipped with protective covers.
According to the type of housing location (configuration), accumulators can be as follows:
- horizontal models are used to connect to external pumps;
- vertical models are usually connected to a water supply system with submersible pumps.
Depending on the type of purpose, various models of hydraulic accumulators may have such additional structural elements as:
- to bleed excess air, horizontal models are equipped with special taps;
- hydroaccumulators for drinking water are equipped with pears made of chemically neutral rubber, which makes it possible not to give the accumulated water an unpleasant aftertaste;
- housings for heating systems are used as "expansion tanks" and play an important role in pressure regulation.
The configuration of the accumulator is determined based on considerations of space saving, intended purpose, and local features of water supply.
Criterias of choice
For long-term operation, experts recommend purchasing models with a pear. Membrane accumulators are more susceptible to corrosion, since the membrane is not able to isolate the walls of the housing from water. However, for models with a pear, repair is more difficult than for membrane counterparts. When choosing a drive, you also need to take into account the future water consumption.
If the number of permanent residents in a house or apartment is no more than three people, plumbing fixtures - at least, then a capacity of 24 liters is enough.
If there are more users, then an appropriate hydraulic accumulator is required. Please note the following before installation:
- number of users;
- number of water points;
- the number of household plumbing fixtures;
- the presence of heating elements.
If preliminary calculations were not final, for example, another person appeared in the family or the number of plumbing fixtures increased, the best solution would be to install a larger tank or install an additional tank.
Both procedures have approximately the same complexity and comparable equipment costs.
Installation: options and connection diagrams
Depending on the internal features of the plumbing system, installation methods may vary. It is worth considering the most popular options.
Connection to a pumping station
In this case, work on connecting the accumulator to an autonomous water supply system is carried out simultaneously with the installation of automation and adapters. The most common installation cases require the following components:
- pressure gauge;
- five-inlet fitting;
- switching hydraulic relay (pressure relay).
If a submersible pump is used for water intake, the well piping must be equipped with a check valve and a dry inlet switch. If a simpler surface centrifugal pump is used for pumping water, it is cheaper and more expedient to buy a complete pumping station rather than mount individual elements. The second option is preferable for those who have little experience, but have a desire to install the pump themselves.
Two hydraulic tanks to one pump
Connecting two (or more) hydraulic tanks is a common problem for people who are faced with a forced increase in water consumption. If the volume of one tank turned out to be too small, installing an additional accumulator is not a very burdensome business.
You can install additional elements in parallel with the existing system: it is enough to use another adapter, a flexible hose or a water pipe. A system with two (or more) tanks is both a rational solution and an excellent safety net. If the membrane fails in one of the tanks, it will still be possible to use the pump, but not in intensive mode. Such a system will allow sufficient time to replace a failed node.
To submersible
You can guess that we are talking about a pump that is immersed in the aquifer of a well or well. For uninterrupted water supply, such a system must be equipped with a check valve: this device will not allow the pumped out water to return to the bottom of the well after use. Accordingly, the pump will not idle and will last much longer.
The non-return valve is in most cases already installed on the pump, additional installation may be necessary during the repair process. In order not to be left without water indefinitely, it is recommended to purchase a pump with a spare valve, which is sold separately or comes with the pump.
Another important point is the quality of the pressure pipeline: since the pipe lies at a fairly large depth, a possible breakdown may not be noticed immediately.
The first sign of problems with the pipeline is a sharp drop in pressure, the accumulator takes water longer, and over time this gap may increase.
superficial
Connecting a hydraulic accumulator to a system with an external centrifugal pump also has its own nuances, namely:
- first of all, you need to check the internal pressure of the tank: it should not exceed 1 bar;
- to prepare for connection, you will need a five-pin fitting. This small but very important detail combines the accumulator itself, the pipeline, the pressure switch, the pressure gauge and the external pump. Before the actual installation process, it is necessary to stock up on sealing materials (sealant or plumbing tape);
- to connect the fitting to the tank, you should use a rigid hose or a flange with a bypass valve;
- after installing the tank, it is worth mounting the remaining elements: pressure gauge, relay, plumbing leading to the pump unit;
- before starting operation, a series of on and off cycles should be carried out to identify possible leaks;
- if something went wrong, you need to find out the cause of the problem and, if necessary, repeat the entire installation cycle again.
To the water heater
The hydraulic accumulator in a system with a storage water heater performs the function of an expansion tank. Water in the process of heating increases in volume, which also increases the load on the plumbing. As pressure builds up in the enclosed space, the process can become very critical, and the temperature drop is unacceptable. There is a need to transfer this excess pressure somewhere. This is where the hydraulic accumulator comes to the rescue. Excess heated water will go into the hydraulic tank, which will normalize the pressure in the system. Further, the water from the expansion tank can be used for domestic purposes.
Relay setting
To understand the principle of operation of a pressure switch on a hydraulic accumulator, you do not need to have special knowledge - everything is quite simple. Up to full filling, water is supplied under pressure to the tank with a membrane (or pear), which causes an increase in pressure in the system. When it becomes maximum, the relay is activated and the water supply stops. As the operation progresses, the pressure begins to drop, and when the minimum threshold is reached, the relay is activated again and the water supply is activated. The above cycle is repeated as long as the system is in good condition.
Many people mistakenly imagine the process of mounting a relay as something sky-highly complicated. In fact, this is far from the case. Any homeowner in the private sector who has a well or artesian well at his disposal can easily cope with this task on his own. The main thing is to treat it with intelligence and patience. In the end, the water supply of a private house is a vital thing.
It should be understood that the relay is an “intermediate link” between the plumbing system and the power supply system. It is obvious that this device has a huge responsibility. For this reason, all the nuances (and there are not so many of them) should be treated with the greatest possible attention. To protect the system, it is recommended to provide a separate power line. For connection, use a two-core copper cable. Wires must be grounded and well insulated: we are talking about the interaction of current and water, and this combination is always dangerous for a person.
The wiring must be connected to the terminal block through the perforations on the housing. Further, according to the instructions, you should connect the phase, neutral wire and ground to the corresponding terminals. You need to be careful and careful, the entire process of mounting the relay must take place in a de-energized environment. You need to take care of this in advance. In no case should you neglect the elementary safety rules.
To adjust the pressure switch on the accumulator, you will need a high-quality, high-precision pressure gauge that can accurately measure pressure to a tenth of a bar. The more accurate the gauge, the faster the adjustment will be. To avoid errors in further work, you must adhere to the following sequence of actions:
- it is necessary to turn on the system, fix the readings of the pressure gauge in the cycles of switching on and off the relay. At this stage, it is possible and necessary to identify malfunctions of the pressure gauge;
- the spring of the lower pressure level should be adjusted (it is the largest). For adjustment, it is worth using an ordinary wrench of the right size (it is best to have an adjustable wrench);
- level needs to be tested. If something went wrong, repeat the previous step;
- further, you should tighten the nut of the spring of the upper pressure level (it is smaller);
- it is necessary to conduct a full test of the system. If any shortcomings are revealed, then repeat the entire tuning cycle again.
