What is a Pressure Switch?
A pressure switch is a device that senses changes in pressure on a water well and adjusts water pump cycles accordingly. It is an important component of a well system, as it helps to ensure that the pump is providing adequate pressure at all times. The pressure switch also helps to conserve energy by cutting off the power to the pump when the water pressure reaches a certain level, and then turning it back on when the pressure drops again. Adjusting a pressure switch on a well is not a difficult task and can be done in a few simple steps.
Tools and Materials Needed
Before attempting to adjust the pressure switch on a well, it is important to make sure you have all of the necessary tools and materials. You will need a flathead screwdriver, a wrench, and a pair of pliers. You will also need a pressure gauge to measure the current pressure in the well. Additionally, you will need a pressure switch adjustment kit, which can be purchased at most hardware stores.
Step 1: Locate the Pressure Switch
The first step in adjusting a pressure switch on a well is to locate the pressure switch. The pressure switch is typically located near the pump and is typically encased in a metal box. The box will have two screws on the front that can be removed with a flathead screwdriver. Once the screws are removed, the box can be opened and the pressure switch will be exposed.
Step 2: Disconnect the Power
Before attempting to adjust the pressure switch, it is important to make sure that the power to the pump is disconnected. This can be done by turning off the breaker or removing the fuse from the fuse box. Once the power is disconnected, the pressure switch can be safely adjusted.
Step 3: Adjust the Pressure Switch
Once the power is disconnected, you can begin to adjust the pressure switch. There are two screws on the pressure switch that can be adjusted. The first screw is the cut-in pressure, which is the pressure at which the pump cycles on. The second screw is the cut-out pressure, which is the pressure at which the pump cycles off. To adjust the pressure switch, use the wrench to turn the screws in the desired direction. If you are increasing the pressure, turn the screw clockwise. If you are decreasing the pressure, turn the screw counterclockwise.
Step 4: Check the Pressure
Once the pressure switch has been adjusted, it is important to check the pressure to make sure that it is accurate. To do this, use the pressure gauge to measure the current pressure in the well. If the pressure is not within the desired range, adjust the pressure switch accordingly until it is accurate.
Step 5: Reconnect the Power
Once the pressure switch has been adjusted and the pressure is accurate, it is time to reconnect the power to the pump. This can be done by turning on the breaker or replacing the fuse in the fuse box. The pressure switch is now adjusted and the pump will cycle on and off at the desired pressure levels.
Conclusion
Adjusting a pressure switch on a well is not a difficult task and can be done in a few simple steps. By following the steps outlined above, you can ensure that your pressure switch is adjusted correctly and that your pump is running at the desired pressure levels. Properly adjusting a pressure switch on a well can help to ensure that your pump is running efficiently and can help to save you money on energy costs.
