How to Adjust a Square Pump Switch

Adjusting a square pump switch is essential for an adequate and proper flow of water. Pump switches determine the pressure per-square-inch -- PSI -- between water and air. Most pumps and tanks, according to the Pumps and Tanks website, are constructed with square pressure switches, allowing for only a 20PSI difference between the simultaneously operating "on" and "off" pressures. One nut on the switch increases or decreases the "on" pressure, while the opposite nut determines the "off" pressure.

Work gloves
3/8-inch wrench

Instructions

- 1
  Slide on a pair of work gloves to protect your skin.
- 2
  Look at the two nuts on your square pump switch. The nuts are assembled atop two spring plates. The taller nut determines the "on" pressure and the shorter nut determines the "off" pressure.
- 3
  Turn the pump off before adjusting the pressure.
- 4
  Twist the "on" nut a maximum of three full rotations, in a clockwise direction, using a 3/8-inch wrench to increase the pressure. Twist the nut in a counterclockwise direction to reduce the "on" pressure. Look at the pressure gauge to read the respective increase or decrease.
- 5
  Adjust the "on" pressure to a maximum level of 2PSI below the water tank capacity. Make the maximum "on" pressure 33PSI, for example, if your tank holds 35 pounds of water. The 2PSI differential allows the pump to start in a safe manner prior to the tank reaching its maximum air pressure capacity.
- 6
  Twist the "off" nut a maximum of three full rotations, in a clockwise direction, using a 3/8-inch wrench to increase the pressure. Twist the nut in a counterclockwise direction to reduce the "off" pressure. Look at the pressure gauge to read the respective increase or decrease.

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