The accumulator
An accumulator is used primarily for two reasons, the first is to take the shock out of the system the second is to store fluid under pressure. Accumulators use either a bladder or a piston to devide two chambers. One side of the chamber is plumbed into the fluid the other is pressurized with air or nitrogen. The idea is that the fluid, which cannot be compressed. moves the piston or stretches the diaphram to compress the gas thus absorbing loads just as the shock on your car would. When you turn off your faucet the fluid stays pressurized by the accumulator thus providing reserve pressure when you use your faucet again. You should apply small gas pressure to preload the daphram or piston, but never more than your water pump pressure can make. If you can, install a small pressure guage at the top of the accumulator. It will be a good tool to tell you the status of your water system and will help you detect leaks. Good luck JP
