Finding the right air tank or air volume control is essential for maintaining steady water pressure, reducing water hammer, and extending the life of a well pumping system. Below are five well-suited products that help balance air and water volumes, prevent pressure fluctuations, and support durable performance for residential wells. The list includes pre-charged tanks and dedicated air volume controls from trusted brands, with key features summarized for quick comparison.
| Product | Brand | Model | Type | Connection | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| RL4A | Red Lion | 604653 | 4.5-Gallon Pre-Charged Tank | 3/4-Inch MNPT | Almond finish; pre-charged to 20 PSI |
| RL20A | Red Lion | 604682 | 20-Gallon Pre-Charged Tank | 1-Inch FNPT Elbow | NSF/CAN approved materials; pre-charged to 20 PSI |
| F93B-1C | yourour | Model 148113 | Air Volume Control | 1-1/4 in MNPT | Brass internals; easy install |
| WaterWorker 25009 | Water Worker | 25009 | 20-Gallon Vertical Tank | Not specified | NSF listed; seamless butyl diaphragm |
| Merrill AE10 | Merrill | AE10 | Deep Well Air Volume Control | 1-1/4 in | Durable plastic housing; for submersibles |
Red Lion RL4A – 4.5-Gallon Inline Pre-Charged Tank
The RL4A is designed for well pump systems to maintain water pressure and reduce water hammer. It features a heavy-duty 20-gauge steel tank and a 304 stainless steel water connection with leak-safe technology. The diaphragm is a high-performance butyl rubber, and a polypropylene liner provides durability. The tank ships pre-charged to 20 PSI and should be topped off with a bicycle pump to two PSI below the pressure switch cut-in setting for proper operation.
Red Lion RL20A – 20-Gallon Pre-Charged Tank
This 20-gallon vertical tank supports well systems when the pump is off, helping stabilize pressure. It uses NSF/ANSI/CAN 61 and 372 approved materials for safe drinking water, and a forged 304 stainless steel water connection with leak-safe technology. Pre-charge is 20 PSI, and air pressure should be adjusted two PSI below the switch cut-in setting for reliable performance.
F93B-1C Air Volume Control for Deep Wells
This air volume control is designed to regulate air inside a deep-well storage tank, ensuring balanced air and water volumes for deep wells typically over 25 feet. It features a 1/4″ gauge tap, corrosion-resistant brass components, and a robust housing with a red plastic float. Installation is straightforward with standard 1-1/4″ NPT threading, though the tank diameter should be at least nine inches.
WaterWorker 25009 20Gal Vertical Tank
The WaterWorker 25009 is a 20-gallon vertical well tank listed by NSF under ANSI/NSF Std 61. Its butyl diaphragm is seamless to resist flexing and creasing, and the polypropylene liner ensures water purity without imparting taste or odor. This design contributes to long-term reliability and stable pressure in domestic wells.
Merrill MFG Air Volume Control for Deep Wells
The Merrill MFG air volume control maintains the balance of air and water in galvanized tanks when used with deep-well pumps. It uses a durable brass interior and 1-1/4″ pipe threading. A 1/4″ gauge tap is included for monitoring pressure, helping optimize pump operation and water pressure consistency.
Buying Guide: Key Considerations For Air Tanks And Volume Controls
When selecting an air tank or air volume control for a well pump, consider tank size based on your pump flow and household water needs. Larger tanks reduce cycling and water hammer but require proper space and compatible connections. Material quality matters: steel tanks offer durability, while brass and stainless connections resist corrosion. Check certifications like NSF/ANSI/CAN 61 for drinking water safety. Ensure correct pre-charge settings (typically around 20 PSI) and plan for field adjustments to match your pressure switch setting. For volume controls, prioritize ease of installation, robust internal components, and compatibility with your tank’s pipe sizing. Compare maintenance needs and replacement part availability to minimize downtime.
Product compatibility is crucial. Inline tanks (RL4A) are great for compact spaces, while vertical tanks (RL20A, WaterWorker 25009) provide higher storage and smoother pressure curves. Air volume controls (F93B-1C, Merrill AE10) help regulate air within the system to prevent pump short-cycling. Look for leak-safe designs, strong diaphragms, and corrosion-resistant materials to extend service life. Finally, assess noise, energy use, and installation complexity to choose a solution that fits your home’s plumbing and comfort requirements.