Water Pressure Bladder or Accumulator Tanks

[mspeir]

Hi all,
Wondered if there is any experience out there installing a water expansion/accumulator bladder type tank in an RV. These are common in homes with wells. They are to aid in preventing the pump from cycling on and off so frequently any time the faucet is turned on. I was considering installing a small one so the diaphragm pump wound not need to cycle on for just a quick opening of the faucet...I presently have a 55-Aquajet AES series pump with a pressure cut out from 65 to 75 psi. The newer ones advertise variable output and that they reduce the need an accumulator tank, but mine cycles after just 3-4 ounces of water is flowed through any faucet. I am specifically looking for experience in using one larger than 1 gallon, maybe a 2-4 gallon one.

Anyone out there use this type of system configuration with experience they would like to share? (Of course it's another system to winterize I realize)....
thanks Mark

[OTRA15]

Welcome to the forum Mark! Adding an accumulator is often done, and there are tons of threads on this, as these search results will show:

https://cse.google.com/cse?cx=011403...tor&gsc.page=1

Sometimes locating the accumulator is tight in particular models, so you might want to check on this 2006-2010 Classic sub-forum:

http://www.airforums.com/forums/f366/

where you could start a new topic if you wish, as I can't find any previous accumulator discussions there.

Good luck!

Peter

[Williker]

Just like a residential expansion tank, one of any size that the space you have will allow can be added. It just has to be installed on the pressure side of your check valve on the cold water line with a T fitting appropriate for whatever pipe is in your TT. They sell them at big box stores commonly between 2 gallons and 5 gallons, just make sure it's for potable water. Some even have brackets to secure them to a wall.
The one gallon size are common because they fit under the sink without giving up usable space.

[sgschwend]

Works great, put ours under the bathroom sink.

[markdoane]

I use a 2 gal tank. It will deliver 3 to 4 qts water when the pump is turned off.

It will still cycle whenever you open a tap. The pump will turn on whenever the pressure drops below the set point, usually around 45 psi.