How to Install a Pressure Tank in an Unheated Area

Turn the power off to the pump and any other optional well equipment before proceeding. Position the tank in the unheated area. Place a level on the top of the tank. Use cedar shims to level the tank if it is off only slightly, otherwise, select a different location.

Wrap the threads of the tank cross with plumber's tape. Screw the tank cross into the female connector on the bottom of the pressure tank until you cannot tighten it by hand anymore. Tighten the tank cross further with a pipe wrench until it is snug and the two holes in the tee are facing up.

Wrap the threads of the street tee with plumber's tape and screw it into the tank tee by hand. Hold the tank tee firmly with the slip-joint pliers while fully tightening the street tee with the pipe wrench, turning it until the opening on the street tee is facing up. Thread the 3/4-inch male PVC adapter on the side of the tank tee closest to the well pump. Tighten it gently, PVC can crack when over-tightened.

Wrap plumber's tape around the threads of both plugs, the pressure relief valve and the boiler drain. Screw the plugs into the holes on the tank tee, tightening with the pipe wrench. Hand tighten the pressure relief valve into the large hole on the top of the street tee and the boiler drain on the end of the street tee. Tighten both fully with a pipe wrench.

Connect the water pipe from the well to the male PVC adapter, use glue or pressure to secure the connection, depending on the adapter and type of plumbing. Repeat for the other side of the tee, fastening the water line to the tee using the connector on the water line.

Wrap the tank with insulated heat wrap designed for plumbing. Beginning at the top of the tank, fasten the wrap securely with electrical tape. Coil the wrap around the tank, leaving about 2 inches between courses. Secure the wrap as you go with electrical tape. Set the thermostat on the wrap and plug it into a nearby outlet.