Pump "Ka chunk" sound when using above ground water tank

[Cahoffa]

We just installed an above ground tank because the inground water tank has a leak. We installed shutoff valves, so the tenants could decide if they wanted to use the above tank or the inground tank (when it's fixed). Whenever the above tank is used solely (the ground tank valve is closed), the pump comes up to pressure and then makes a "Ka chunk" sound. The tank will come to pressure again, and then make the "Ka chunk" sound over and over. We have been struggling with this situation for six weeks, and we need help!

 

[Valveman]

I don't see a check valve anywhere? You need one on the suction side of the pump to keep water from flowing back to the storage tank when the pump shuts off.

 

[Sponsor]

 

[Cahoffa]

I don't see a check valve anywhere? You need one on the suction side of the pump to keep water from flowing back to the storage tank when the pump shuts off.

Yes, I suspected that might be the case. Thank you so much for responding. I really appreciate it. Does it matter where along the white pipe the valve should be placed?

 

[Valveman]

Usually just before the pump.

 

[LLigetfa]

Usually just before the pump.

I would assume the old tank had a foot valve so if you place a check at the pump, it would be hard to prime the line to the old tank. I assume the old tank being buried might be lower than the pump.

In order to keep both tanks working the same, I suggest the check valve be placed close to the tank.

 

[Valveman]

I would assume the old tank had a foot valve so if you place a check at the pump, it would be hard to prime the line to the old tank. I assume the old tank being buried might be lower than the pump.

In order to keep both tanks working the same, I suggest the check valve be placed close to the tank.

Yeah except if that line going through the floor is another place to draw water, then the check valve would need to be after that and before the pump.

 

[LLigetfa]

Yeah except if that line going through the floor is another place to draw water, then the check valve would need to be after that and before the pump.

That line goes to the buried tank which I assume has a foot valve. Again, the check valve should be close to the above ground tank.

 

[Valveman]

If there is a foot valve then fine. But if no foot valve the check needs to go between that tee and the pump. But it would make no difference if that line to the buried tank is never opened.

 

[Cahoffa]

Hi everyone!
Thank you for all the advice. We installed a check valve close to the above ground tank, and everything is working fine... except for the ground tank with meltwater from the spring. One step at a time!
Cahoffa

 

[Valveman]

Then you are going to need a foot valve or a check valve in the line to the ground tank. Check valve is fine close to the above ground storage tank until you open that valve to the ground tank. Then you need a check of foot valve in that line as well. Putting the check just before the pump would have worked for both tanks.