Identifying Pressure Switch

[Dan S.]

I recently purchased a home that was build in 1979. It’s my first house on a well!
I’ve been having issues with the water pressure dropping before the pump kicks on. I was going to start by replacing the pressure switch on the jet pump.
The problem is I can’t find any stores that sell ones like this?? It’s an old Furnas switch. ( I will attach pic). Should I be switching it with a newer style??

thanks

 

[RS]

It's normal for the water pressure to drop before the pump starts, that's how they work. Jeff already covered it pretty well, you could try adjusting it to a higher pressure, although that type of pump will not develop a lot, but many run 30-50 psi. Make sure you don't set it so high the pump can't reach the setpoint, with a little cushion. I would try running it up to 55, if it does that with no problem then set it to 50.

 

[Valveman]

Any brand of pressure switch will work. Square D is the most common. Water pressure should not be dropping unless you are using water. Dropping pressure without water use would mean a bad foot valve or a hole in the pipe.