If you rely on a booster pump for water storage tank, you know how frustrating it can be when the pump kicks on and off constantly. That rapid cycling not only wears out your pump but also leads to uneven water pressure in your home. Fortunately, adding a pressure tank to your system can solve this problem. In this guide, we review the Red Lion RL4A inline pre-charged well pressure tank, a compact solution designed to work seamlessly with booster pumps. Whether you are upgrading an existing setup or building a new system, understanding how this tank fits into your water storage arrangement is key. For a deeper look at how pressure tanks function, check out our article on how a well pressure tank works.
Pros
- Extends pump lifespan by reducing unnecessary starts and stops
- Easy to install and adjust air pressure for optimal performance
- Compact size fits easily into tight spaces under sinks or near pumps
- NSF certified for potable water, ensuring safe drinking water
- Positive customer feedback on immediate performance and reliability
Cons
- Requires manual air pressure adjustment with a bicycle pump (not included)
- No pressure gauge included for precise setup
- 4.5 gallon capacity may be insufficient for larger households with high water demand
The Red Lion RL4A is a compact inline pressure tank designed for residential well systems and pressure boosting applications. It stores water between a diaphragm and liner to maintain consistent pressure while reducing the number of times your pump cycles on and off. This makes it ideal for homeowners looking to extend the life of their well pump or reduce water hammer in booster setups.
Standout features include a heavy-duty 20-gauge steel tank with a 304 stainless steel connector and a butyl rubber diaphragm. The pre-charged design (20 PSI) requires you to adjust air pressure to 2 PSI below your pressure switch cut-in setting, which is straightforward with a bicycle pump. Real-world performance is strong: users report it works perfectly out of the box, fixes fluctuating pressure, and holds up well after months of use.
Build quality is solid for the price. The tank is NSF certified for drinking water, and the triple-grade almond paint finish resists corrosion. The 4.5-gallon capacity provides a 1.5-gallon drawdown at 30/50 PSI, which is sufficient for typical faucets and appliances. The inline design saves space and allows multiple tanks to be connected in series or parallel.
Potential drawbacks include the need to manually set air pressure and the lack of an included pressure gauge. Some users may find the 4.5-gallon size limiting for larger households. However, for most standard well systems and booster pumps, the RL4A delivers reliable, consistent water pressure without maintenance.
Verdict: The Red Lion RL4A is a well-built, affordable pressure tank that does its job effectively. It is best suited for smaller to medium residential water systems where space is limited. With proper setup, it provides years of dependable service and helps protect your pump investment.
Buying Guide
Tank Material and Durability
When choosing a pressure tank for your booster pump, the materials matter. The Red Lion RL4A uses heavy-duty 20-gauge steel and a 304 stainless steel water connection. This combination resists corrosion and ensures a long service life, even in demanding environments. The high-performance butyl rubber diaphragm and propylene liner are designed to handle repeated pressurization without failure. For a system that runs frequently, these features reduce the risk of leaks and maintenance headaches.
Drawdown Capacity and Pressure Settings
Drawdown is the amount of water the tank delivers between pump cycles. The Red Lion RL4A offers 1.5 gallons of drawdown at 30/50 PSI, which is suitable for small to medium booster pump systems. The tank comes pre-charged to 20 PSI for transport, but you must adjust the air pressure to 2 PSI below your pump’s cut-in setting. This simple step optimizes performance and prevents waterlogging. If you are unsure about sizing, our guide on well pressure tank sizing can help you match the tank to your system.
Installation Flexibility
Inline tanks like the Red Lion RL4A offer versatile installation options. You can mount it vertically or horizontally, and it can be connected in series or parallel with other tanks to increase total capacity. The 3/4-inch MNPT straight connection makes it easy to integrate into existing plumbing. This flexibility is especially valuable when space is limited near your water storage tank. Whether you are retrofitting an old system or building a new one, the RL4A adapts to your layout.
Certifications and Water Safety
For drinking water applications, safety certifications are non-negotiable. The Red Lion RL4A is NSF/ANSI/CAN 61 and CAN 372 certified by WQA, meaning it meets strict standards for materials that contact potable water. This certification gives you confidence that the tank will not leach harmful chemicals into your water supply. If you are using a booster pump for a water storage tank that supplies your home, this tank is a safe choice.
Final Thoughts
Adding a pressure tank to your booster pump system is one of the smartest upgrades you can make, and the Red Lion RL4A delivers reliable performance in a compact package. Its durable steel construction, certified water safety, and straightforward installation make it a solid choice for homeowners looking to reduce pump cycling and maintain steady pressure. For those with a larger water storage tank setup, pairing the RL4A with a second unit in parallel can boost drawdown capacity. Explore the Red Lion RL4A inline pre-charged well pressure tank to see if it fits your system. Alternatively, if you need a tank for a different application, browse our constant pressure category for more options.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use the Red Lion RL4A with any booster pump?
Yes, the RL4A is designed to work with most well pump and booster pump systems. It connects inline and requires that you set the air pressure to 2 PSI below the pump’s cut-in pressure. Always verify compatibility with your pump’s pressure switch range.
How often do I need to check the air pressure in the tank?
You should check the pre-charge pressure every few months, especially after the first installation. Use a tire gauge on the air valve and adjust with a bicycle pump as needed. Proper air pressure prevents waterlogging and extends the tank’s life.
What size pressure tank do I need for my water storage tank system?
Tank sizing depends on your pump’s flow rate and the desired run time. A general rule is to aim for at least 1 gallon of drawdown per 5 GPM of pump flow. The RL4A offers 1.5 gallons drawdown, suitable for smaller systems. For larger setups, consider multiple tanks in parallel. For more details, see our well pressure tank sizing.
Is the Red Lion RL4A safe for drinking water?
Yes, it is certified to NSF/ANSI/CAN 61 and CAN 372, ensuring the materials are safe for potable water. This makes it an excellent choice for household water storage tank systems.
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