Introduction

If you’ve ever experienced weak water pressure, a pump that seems to switch on and off too often, or inconsistent flow in your home or business, the culprit might be your pressure tank. Choosing the right pressure tank is crucial—not only does it keep your water system running smoothly, but it also helps reduce electricity bills, prevents pump damage, and ensures you always have water at the right pressure when you need it.

At SH Pressure Tank Singapore, we’ve worked with thousands of property owners, from small HDB flats to large industrial facilities. In this guide, we’ll explain what pressure tanks are, why size matters, the different types available, and how to pick the right one for your system.

What is a Pressure Tank?

A pressure tank is a storage vessel that holds water and air together under pressure. Its main job is to:

• Maintain consistent water pressure

• Reduce pump cycling (turning on/off too often)

• Extend the lifespan of your pump

• Provide a small backup reserve of water

Without the right pressure tank, your pump may run every time you open a tap—causing wear and tear, noise, and higher bills.

Why Pressure Tank Size Matters

The size of your pressure tank is the most important decision you’ll make. Too small, and your pump will short cycle (turn on and off too quickly). Too large, and you’ll overspend on equipment you don’t really need.

A properly sized tank ensures:

• Steady flow – smooth water pressure, no annoying surges or drops

• Pump protection – fewer on/off cycles, extending pump life

• Energy savings – pump runs less frequently, saving electricity

How to Calculate Tank Size

To size your tank correctly, you need to know your pump’s flow rate (in gallons per minute, GPM).

Step 1: Measure Flow Rate

• Fill a 1-gallon container with water from your system.

• Use a stopwatch to measure how long it takes to fill.

• Divide 60 by the number of seconds = GPM.

Step 2: Apply Formula

Tank size (gallons) = Pump GPM × Minimum pump runtime × 4

Example: A 10 GPM pump × 1 minute runtime × 4 = 40 gallons minimum tank size.

Types of Pressure Tanks

1. Air-over-Water Tanks

• Oldest design, stores water and air in one chamber

• Cheap but prone to waterlogging (air dissolves into water over time)

• Requires frequent maintenance

2. Diaphragm Tanks

• Has a flexible diaphragm separating air and water

• Reduces waterlogging but diaphragm can wear out over years

3. Bladder Tanks

• Uses a replaceable bladder to keep air and water separate

• Longer lifespan, lower maintenance

• Most common in modern homes and businesses

4. Steel / Stainless Steel Tanks

• Heavy-duty, designed for industrial or chemical applications

• More expensive but extremely durable

Key Features to Look For

When comparing tanks, pay attention to:

• Capacity (liters or gallons) – based on your household/business needs

• Pressure rating (PSI) – matches your pump system (common: 30/50, 40/60)

• Material – polypropylene for homes, stainless steel for heavy-duty systems

• Connection type – NPT, BSP, or customized fittings

• Maintenance – easy-to-replace bladder or diaphragm preferred

Common Mistakes When Choosing a Tank

• Undersizing → pump burns out quickly

• Ignoring system pressure → mismatched tank leads to poor performance

• Not considering future demand → e.g., adding more bathrooms later

• Cheap imports → non-certified tanks may leak or fail early

Choosing the Right Tank for Your Needs

For Homes (HDB, Condo, Landed)

• A 24–40 gallon bladder tank is usually sufficient

• Prioritize compact size if space is limited

• Look for NSF-certified materials for potable water

For Restaurants / F&B

• Larger tanks or multiple tanks ensure smooth flow during peak hours

• Stainless steel recommended for hygiene and durability

For Industrial Applications

• High-capacity stainless steel tanks (304 or 316 grade)

• Must withstand high pressure, chemicals, or extreme temperatures

FAQ – Pressure Tanks in Singapore

Q: How long does a pressure tank last?
A: Typically 5–7 years for bladder tanks, up to 15+ years for stainless steel models with proper maintenance.

Q: What happens if my tank is waterlogged?
A: The pump will short cycle, causing wear and higher energy bills. In most cases, the bladder needs replacement.

Q: Can I use two smaller tanks instead of one big one?
A: Yes. Installing multiple tanks in parallel can give the same effect as one large tank and offers flexibility.

Q: Do I need a pressure tank if I already have a booster pump?
A: Yes, the tank still helps regulate flow, reduce pump strain, and improve overall efficiency.

Conclusion & Call to Action

The right pressure tank can save you thousands of dollars in pump repairs and energy costs. Whether you need a compact home solution or a heavy-duty industrial setup, SH Pressure Tank has the expertise and product range to match your needs.

Call us at 6784 1024, WhatsApp us at 9224 6888, or email contact@shpressuretank.com for a free consultation today.