SC By SCWS Team | February 1, 2026 | 8 min read
How Much Does Pressure Tank Replacement Cost?
Is your pump turning on and off every few seconds? That's short-cycling—and it's usually a failing pressure tank killing your pump. The good news: replacing a pressure tank is one of the more affordable well repairs, typically costing $800 to $3,500 depending on tank size. Compare that to a $4,000+ pump replacement and the choice is clear: fix it now.
💵 Quick Price Summary
- • Small tank (20-32 gal): $600 - $1,200 installed
- • Standard tank (40-50 gal): $900 - $1,600 installed
- • Large tank (80-86 gal): $1,400 - $2,400 installed
- • Extra large (100-120 gal): $2,000 - $3,500 installed
Pressure Tank Replacement Cost Overview
Your pressure tank is the heart of your well's water delivery system, maintaining consistent water pressure and reducing pump cycling. When it fails, quick replacement prevents damage to your pump and restores reliable water pressure.
📊 Pressure Tank Replacement Costs by Size
Small Tank
20-32 gallon • 1-2 bathrooms
$600 - $1,200
Standard Tank ⭐ Most Common
40-50 gallon • 2-3 bathrooms
$900 - $1,600
Large Tank
80-86 gallon • 3-4 bathrooms
$1,400 - $2,400
Extra Large Tank
100-120 gallon • Large homes + irrigation
$2,000 - $3,500
*Prices include tank, labor, fittings, and pressure switch adjustment
Factors That Affect Pressure Tank Replacement Cost
1. Tank Size and Capacity
Tank size is the primary cost factor. Larger tanks cost more but provide better performance:
- 20-32 gallon tanks: Suitable for small homes, 1-2 bathrooms ($200-$400 for tank alone)
- 40-50 gallon tanks: Standard residential, 2-3 bathrooms ($300-$600 for tank alone)
- 80-86 gallon tanks: Larger homes, 3-4 bathrooms, light irrigation ($500-$900 for tank alone)
- 100-120 gallon tanks: Large homes, heavy irrigation, multiple buildings ($800-$1,400 for tank alone)
2. Tank Brand and Quality
Premium brands cost more but offer better warranties and longer life:
- Economy brands: 3-5 year warranty, basic construction
- Mid-range brands (Flexcon, WaterWorker): 5-7 year warranty, quality bladders
- Premium brands (Well-X-Trol, Flexcon Industries): 7-10 year warranty, superior construction
3. Installation Complexity
Several factors can increase installation labor costs:
- Difficult access (crawl space, tight basement)
- Outdated plumbing requiring updates
- Pressure switch or gauge replacement needed
- Piping modifications for different tank size
- Disposal of old tank (especially large tanks)
4. Additional Components
Your replacement may require additional parts:
- Pressure switch: $50-$150 if worn or malfunctioning
- Pressure gauge: $20-$50
- Tank tee assembly: $40-$100
- Shut-off valve: $30-$80
- Piping/fittings: $50-$200 depending on configuration
What's Included in Professional Installation
A complete professional pressure tank replacement should include:
Standard Service Includes
- System inspection and diagnosis
- Draining and disconnecting old tank
- Removal and disposal of failed tank
- New tank installation with proper fittings
- Pre-charge pressure adjustment for your system
- Pressure switch calibration
- System testing and leak check
- Explanation of proper maintenance
DIY vs Professional Replacement
| Factor | DIY | Professional |
|---|---|---|
| Cost (40-gal tank) | $300-$600 | $900-$1,600 |
| Time Required | 3-5 hours | 1-2 hours |
| Proper Sizing | Risk of undersizing | Correctly calculated |
| Pre-charge Setting | Often incorrect | Precisely adjusted |
| Warranty | Manufacturer only | Parts + labor warranty |
| Risk Level | Moderate (pressure, electrical) | Fully insured work |
When DIY Makes Sense
- You have plumbing experience and proper tools
- Easy access to the tank location
- Same-size replacement with standard fittings
- You understand pressure settings and switch calibration
When to Hire a Professional
- Tank is in a difficult location
- You're changing tank size or configuration
- Pump is short-cycling (may indicate other problems)
- You're unsure about proper sizing
- Old plumbing needs updating
Signs You Need Pressure Tank Replacement
Watch for these warning signs that indicate tank failure:
- Pump short-cycling: Pump turns on/off frequently (every few seconds to minutes)
- Waterlogged tank: Tank feels completely full of water (no air cushion)
- Water pressure fluctuations: Pressure drops rapidly when using water
- Visible corrosion or rust: Tank exterior showing deterioration
- Leaking tank: Water seeping from seams or fittings
- Age: Tanks over 10-15 years old should be evaluated
Learn more about diagnosing pressure tank problems and when repair vs replacement makes sense.
Choosing the Right Tank Size
Proper tank sizing ensures optimal performance and pump protection:
Tank Size Guidelines
- 1-2 bedroom home, 1 bathroom: 20-32 gallon
- 3 bedroom home, 2 bathrooms: 40-50 gallon
- 4+ bedroom home, 3+ bathrooms: 80-86 gallon
- Home + irrigation/livestock: 80-120 gallon or dual tanks
*Sizing also depends on pump flow rate and well recovery
Extending Your Pressure Tank's Life
Maximize your investment with proper maintenance:
- Check pre-charge annually: Should be 2 PSI below cut-in pressure
- Inspect for corrosion: Treat any rust spots promptly
- Monitor pump cycling: Frequent cycling indicates problems
- Test pressure switch: Ensure proper cut-in/cut-out operation
- Address water quality issues: Sediment and minerals accelerate wear
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to replace a well pressure tank?
Well pressure tank replacement typically costs between $800 and $3,500 for professional installation, depending on tank size, brand, and installation complexity. A standard 40-80 gallon residential tank runs $1,200-$2,000 installed.
How long do well pressure tanks last?
Quality well pressure tanks typically last 10-15 years with proper maintenance. Factors like water quality, cycling frequency, and proper air charge maintenance affect lifespan. Bladder tanks tend to last longer than older diaphragm styles.
Can I replace a pressure tank myself?
While technically possible for handy homeowners, DIY pressure tank replacement involves working with plumbing under pressure, electrical connections, and heavy equipment. Professional installation ensures proper sizing, correct pre-charge pressure, and leak-free connections.
What size pressure tank do I need?
Pressure tank size depends on your pump's flow rate and household water demand. Most residential wells use 40-80 gallon tanks. Larger homes, irrigation systems, or high-demand applications may require 80-120 gallon tanks or multiple tanks.
Get Your Free Pressure Tank Estimate
Is your pressure tank failing? We'll diagnose the problem and provide a detailed, no-obligation quote for replacement. Same-day service available for urgent situations.