Insufficient Pressure in the Tank

• 1). Screw on the water pressure gauge to the end of a faucet in the sink nearest the water pressure tank. Use the channel lock pliers to tighten the gauge fully.
  
  
• 2). Turn on the cold side of the faucet to get water flowing past the water gauge. The gauge will read the water pressure. Anywhere between 40 and 80 is acceptable pressure.
  
  
• 3). Check the water pressure gauge on the tank. Subtract the difference between the water pressure at the faucet and the water pressure at the tank. This gives you the pressure drop. A pressure drop of 5 psi is normal. However, a pressure drop of 20 psi means that the tank is not holding pressure and the air is leaking out of the tank. Add pressure to the tank using an air compressor. Fill the tank with air by placing the fill nozzle on the air valve at the top of the tank. Test the water pressure again. If the drastic pressure drop continues, the tank needs to be replaced.
  
  

Rusting Tank

• 1). Check the tank for rust streaks or lime buildup, especially toward the bottom of the tank.
  
  
• 2). Scrape lightly with a screwdriver any rust spots that you see on the tank. This will tell you how deep the rust is.
  
  
• 3). Press the area around the rust spot with your hand. If the tank gives slightly, it's rusting from the inside out and needs to be replaced.