The industry says bladder tanks are more popular than standard pressure tanks. Few additional changes in bladder containers make them faster than traditional options. However, both are commonly used water tanks, installed for the same purposes. So what are the differences between a bladder tank vs pressure tank?
bladder water tanks use rubber membranes or diaphragm to send water out of storage. On the other hand, standard pressurized water tanks apply compressed air to push water at your home pipe. So both deliver pressurized water to your plumbing system. But the efficiency and overall outcome are different in these tanks.
There are many things to discuss. We have compared their design, maintenance, water flow, tank size, price, and other factors in this article. We also explain which is best in the current market and what you should prefer for your job.
What is a Bladder Tank?
Bladder tanks collect and store rainwater when the main water supply is unavailable. This water tank uses a flexible bladder, diaphragm, or bag, to follow the storage process. There are several benefits you get from using a bladder storage tank.
First, these types of water containers are protected from external contaminants. It means the liquid is safe from getting polluted in the future.
Secondly, the tank is made with a larger design and is used with metal or PVC plastic. Flexible outer Bladder can expandable on different occasions. This feature helps to collect more water during heavy rains and store it securely.
Due to less polluted water, users can easily use it for home and property needs. Using a regulated pressure, the Bladder can deliver water to your plumbing system. You can expect fresh and consistent water flow for showers, faucets, toilets, and other spaces.
Bladder water tanks are available in different shapes and sizes. Some are made from a flexible material that can expand and contrast to adjust water volume. On the other hand, some types use thicker and more rigid materials to maintain their shape on different occasions.
Bladder tanks are one of the essential parts of the plumbing system. Due to its expandable and contrasting nature, it can hold an excess water surplus. Plumbers can install the unit to prevent flooding in your house. In fact the container takes less space than traditional water storage.
You can also use the unit as a toilet flushing device inside your property. This plumbing work helps when other installations are expensive for storage.
What is a Pressure tank?
Water pressure tanks contain fluid with two major components. The first is an air compressor that produces pressure, and the second is a tank that holds the pressure.
Pressure tanks are made from steel or polyethylene plastics. The design of this tank includes two essential parts: one is the cover, and the other one is the opening hole.
Plumbers also called the valve “manhole” or maintenance hole that should be under control during operations. Otherwise, it can cause severe injury or damage to your property.
Different size pressure tanks are available depending on their usage and the quantity of fluid it holds. Tanks that contain a small amount of water are designed in a small round shape. In contrast, large space tanks have box-like designs.
Pressure tanks are connected to an air compressor or pump that delivers water to the container. Pressurized water comes from the tank when you turn on any water-using equipment.
If the pressure tank sends all the water, the pump automatically starts to refill. These tanks also have certain disadvantages in modern days. For example, extreme temperature dilation can cause damage to the tank.
Overheating or freezing of liquid can influence tank size or its rigid form. That’s why connecting pressure tanks with pressure and volume sensors is essential.
Pressure tanks are similar to bladder tanks that deliver pressurized water to your home pipelines. The main difference between them is design and the efficiency of the work.
7 Key Differences Between Bladder Tank and Pressure Tank
Design and efficiency may be primary factors in the bladder and pressure tank. Still, there are several factors available between these water containers.
You should look at each aspect when comparing these tanks. But You don’t need to research because we already mentioned key points between the bladder tank and pressure tank below.
Design/Assembly/Material
The first key difference between a bladder tank and a pressure tank is a balloon system available in the bladder container but not in the pressure tank. This simple effect includes all other features, including tank size, maintenance, and water pressure in these containers.
Well pumps push water into the tank, when water is used, the balloon system expands and delivers the water out of the tank. As water pressure changes, air volume starts compacting or expanding.
Pressure tanks work using an air compressor installed on the top. When you turn on the faucet, compressed air pushes water to flow from the tank to your home plumbing chain.
Tank Size
Size is a vital key difference between these water tanks. Pressure tanks come in far larger sizes than bladder tanks. It means you can store more water in stainless steel pressure tanks than in bladder containers.
However, tank size affects the drawdown of water. In bladder containers, this drawdown is more efficient and robust. These containers are also very compact by nature, so installing and fulfilling water demand in tiny homes (small spaces) is easier.
Standard pressure tanks work as reserved water for residents. This container only requires when the home water supply exceeds and pressurizes fluid drop when needed. Due to its large size, users can store more hot water and redistribute it on demand.
Water flow control
Another critical difference between a bladder and a pressure tank is water flow control and usage. In this case, a pressure tank offers a greater advantage than a bladder container. Standard stainless steel containers are large enough to store more fluid.
This kind of storage allows you to fulfill multiple demands like a faucet, AC, dishwasher, shower, toilet, etc., simultaneously. Additionally, the storage includes an air compressor to deliver pressurized water in different rooms.
On the other hand, the bladder tank works relatively low in water flow control. The compact size is the reason that it stores small quantities of water. In fact the tank relies on water flow and volume to generate pressurized water when required. This quality does not fulfill the high demand for water at the time.
Maintenance
Research shows a pressure tank needs more maintenance than a bladder tank. Pressure containers made of stainless steel or metal which tend to rust or become waterlogged over time.
As a result, these containers need timely maintenance from professionals. Additionally, this pressure tank gets damaged from overheating or freezing fluid. If you do not monitor the station with sensors, your tank becomes out of shape.
On the other hand, bladder tanks contain rubber membranes inside and are less likely to include metal or steel stuff around them. As a result, there are fewer chances of corrosion or rust over time. In fact the container is less expensive to repair due to its flexible and non-metallic form.
Efficiency
The bladder tank offers efficient water flow due to the vacuum created by the balloon system. These water containers continue to thrive for water pressure.
On the other hand, pressure tanks rely on high volumes of water using air compressors. Additionally, the container can lose air pressure as the water level goes down.
A bladder tank is efficient for homes with limited water flows. However, a pressure tank is more suitable for high water pressure demand at once.
Durability
The standard pressure tank is resistant to water, heat, or scratch but not corrosion. In fact the container can lose its shape and quality for overheating or temperature dilation. As a result, small rust particles can mix with water that flows into your home.
On the other hand, bladder tanks create strong barriers between outside heat and pollutants. In fact the containers are metal or steel free, which prevents corrosion or rust in the future.
So in terms of durability, the bladder tank runs longer with the quality of water.
Pricing
A good quality pressure tank is available for under $100. If the container is treated well, it can last more than years. However, any leakage in your home supply line can affect the water pressure from these tanks.
On the other hand, a good quality bladder tank costs around $200. Still, it can be worth it due to its safety, low maintenance, and efficient work process in the home water supply.
Also Read: How To Refill CO2 Tank With Air Compressor at Home- Proper Guide
FAQs Relate to Bladder Tank vs Pressure Tank
What is the purpose of bladder tank?
A bladder tank is used initially for heating and cooling your water supply. There is less intention to make this tank water storage. Bladder tanks contain a balloon system that expands or contrasts in different scenarios. Diaphragm and bladder tanks protect your plumbing system from excess pressure or water.
Do all pressure tank comes with a bladder?
Not all pressure tanks come with a bladder system inside. Two common and outdated pressure tanks are standard stainless steel or galvanized pressure tanks. The modern type of containers is the bladder pressure tank and the diaphragm pressure tank.
How long bladder tank last?
The industry says a bladder tank lasts, on average, five to seven years. If you maintain them properly, the container can run for ten years before replacement. The bladder tank is corrosion or rust-free but not much protected from wear or tear.
How long pressure tank Lasts?
A standard pressure tank lasts five to ten years, depending on usage. Still, the container has less lifespan than bladder tanks. Pressure tanks include metallic or steel bodies that are more likely to become rust and damaged with time. More maintenance is required for these water containers.
Conclusion
Remember, the bladder tank and pressure tank are not the same except their purpose. One includes a balloon system to maintain constant water pressure, while the other relies on the air compressor and water volume. A bladder tank is more a multiple fluid keeper or temperature controller than a storage.
On the other hand, pressure tanks are known fortheir large storage capacity, and high-volume water flows for various uses. Bladder tanks will fulfill the fluid demand of tiny homes, but pressure tanks are better for consisting of water in different home equipment.
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