There is no universal flushing interval. Follow the tank manufacturer’s maintenance schedule and flush only when specified or when servicing confirms sediment accumulation. An annual system inspection may be sensible, but it does not mean the tank must be flushed annually.
If the pump loses pressure or cycles rapidly, investigate the system fault rather than treating flushing as the fix.
Inspection, draining and flushing are different
An inspection checks the tank, pump and visible fittings. Draining empties the vessel for servicing, while flushing moves water through it to remove sediment. A scheduled inspection or drain is therefore not automatically an annual sediment flush.
Maintenance also depends on the tank design. Sealed bladder or diaphragm tanks separate the water and compressed air, while older non-bladder vessels operate differently. Use the instructions for the specific tank rather than a generic schedule.
When more frequent maintenance may be needed
A shorter interval may be appropriate when:
- the manufacturer specifies one
- bore, rainwater or another untreated supply carries sand, silt or rust
- sediment is repeatedly discharged during servicing
- the system has been stagnant for an extended period.
Recurring sediment should prompt professional assessment of the water source and pump system, rather than increasingly frequent flushing alone.
If household water pressure fluctuates, record when it occurs and arrange system assessment rather than changing tank settings yourself.
Pressure tanks store pressure and pump systems involve electricity. Homeowners should limit their actions to safe observation and any shutdown procedure expressly provided by the manufacturer. Do not open or modify the vessel, access electrical components or undertake plumbing alterations yourself.
All pressurised water supply and booster tank systems must be installed and serviced according to AS/NZS 3500.1 (the national water services standard, which regulates backflow prevention and pressure management to safeguard drinking water and prevent pipe damage). Fixed Today has been the dependable plumbing team Sydney homeowners trust and return to since 2011. Before dispatch, our staff conduct a quick diagnostic screening over the phone—asking about your pump type, tank diaphragm design, and whether the system draws from rainwater harvesting, bore water, or mains booster supply—so our technicians arrive fully equipped with calibration gauges and replacement components. If the system cannot be safely isolated, leaks, is corroded, or repeatedly collects sediment, contact our licensed Sydney water-pressure team for supportive guidance, a transparent task breakdown, and an upfront fixed quote with a $0 call-out fee on approved work. Electrical work must be handled by an appropriately licensed electrician.