Moaning pressure tank

I recently had a power failure that resulted in my pressure tank getting drained I restarted the system using that switch by the pressure tank.no problem, but now whenever there is a significant draw on the water (like a toilet flush) the tank moans starting at a high pitch and dropping to a quieter low pitch. Sounds like a sad dog and lasts about 4 seconds. The tank conitues to build its pressure during the noise and after.

Is this a sign of a tank bladder problem or just some air in the lines nearby. Any suggestions on how to get rid of the noise?

Paul

Tanks don't normally make noise, so I would lean toward a bad bladder.

What brand tank?

bob...

tank type

Hi Bob

Thanks for helping out. Its a Well Rite tank, about 10 yrs old. I tried draining it yesterday and refilling but to no effect. The pressure guage on the pipe continued to read about 20 psi, but i did not check the pressure at the value on top of the tank. I am thinking about redraining and testing that pressure to ensure the bladder is ok.

Do you think it could be some kind of air pocket? It is very regular, every time pressure drops to the cut in level and the pump starts we get the moaning.

thanks again.

Paul

First get a new gauge so you know your reading the correct pressure. Then drain the tank until no more water comes out of any faucet (turn off the pump of course) then measure the air pressure in the tank.

Well Rites are a great tank and ten years is not uncommon.

bob...

test results

Hi Bob

Ok, drained the tank. Pressure measured at 20psi. I then let the air out...got a small amount of water spraying out with the air for a few seconds.

Repumped the tank to 20 psi. Turned on pump, no noise!

Later in the day the noise returned a little, but nowhere near as bad.

My first thought is the water in the air means the bladder has failed, but it did retake the pressure and seems to be holding. I just bled off a little air and there was virtually no moisture. Should there be absolutely no moisture? Is it possible for the system to work with a small bladder hole?

Must plan is to wait a few days and see what happens. sound ok?


thanks again

Paul

The little bit of water is not a good indication of a good tank. It's probably shot. The bladder can be torn anywhere, meaning it can still hold air while not under water pressure. But the air and water can still get together. Kinda like an all female dorm with an all male dorm next door. So, my guess is; it's time for a new tank. Since you said the pressure switch is by the tank, I will assume you have a submersible pump. So check out the Cycle Stop Valve before just buying a new tank.

bob...