Hydrofor Tank Sizing
Properly sizing a hydrofor (pressure) tank is crucial to prevent your booster pump from short-cycling, which can drastically reduce the pump’s lifespan and increase energy consumption. Our Hydrofor Tank Sizing Calculator allows engineers and plumbers to determine the exact tank volume needed based on flow rate and pressure switch settings.
Hydrofor Tank Sizing
Total Tank Volume (L)
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Useful Water Volume
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Pre-charge Pressure
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How to Use the Hydrofor Calculator
- Peak Flow (l/min): Enter the maximum expected water demand for the building or system.
- Cut-in P1 (bar): Set the lower pressure limit. When the system pressure drops to this value, the pump turns on.
- Cut-out P2 (bar): Set the upper pressure limit. When the system pressure reaches this value, the pump turns off. This must be higher than P1.
- Max Pump Starts per Hour: Enter the manufacturer’s recommended maximum number of start/stop cycles (usually 20 for standard booster pumps).
- Review Results: The calculator provides the Total Tank Volume (L), the Useful Water Volume (the amount of water drawn before the pump starts again), and the required Pre-charge Pressure for the tank’s air bladder.
Important: The pre-charge pressure should always be set when the tank is completely empty of water. It is typically equal to or slightly below the cut-in pressure (P1).
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