A pressure tank for a sprinkler system should be at least how full?

A pressure tank for a sprinkler system should be at least two-thirds full to ensure optimal performance and reliability. This level of fill is crucial for a few reasons.

Firstly, maintaining the pressure tank at two-thirds full allows sufficient water volume to be available for the sprinklers to operate effectively. If the tank were to be less than this, it might not provide enough water pressure to meet the demands of the sprinkler system during operation, leading to reduced effectiveness in coverage and potential dry areas in the landscape.

Additionally, having the tank at this level helps prevent the issue of water hammer, which can occur if the tank is underfilled. Water hammer can cause damaging pressure surges in the piping system, leading to leaks and failures.

Moreover, a two-thirds full tank strikes a balance, ensuring that there is enough reserve to cover irrigation needs while also allowing for necessary air space to accommodate changes in pressure and avoid overfilling.

This optimal fill level is considered a best practice in the industry, aligning with guidelines for the performance and longevity of the sprinkler system components.