Buffer Tank Confusion

Newbie Questions
1

I understand the concept of a buffer tank. If your machine pulls more water than the supply puts out you need a buffer tank. My confusion is on the setup of the tank. When you run a buffer tank is the only inlet line to the pump the one from the buffer or is there a way to have both the garden hose and the line from the tank feeding the pump?

If your just running off a small tank feeding the machine do you just leave the garden hose feeding the tank? Sorry for the confusion. I am just trying to learn and havent found anything to confirm this on the forums.

2

This is a pretty good outline to get you started. Some people will have their own preferences on minor details, but the overall concepts are pretty universal.

https://www.pressurewasherproducts.com/pressure-washer-plumbing.html

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3

So the hudson float valve shuts off supply of water to the tank so you can leave the hose in while you work? Thank you! This was really helpful

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4

Exactly. It’s the same general concept as the water tank on a toilet.

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5

Hudson float valves are a must. Buy two though. They’re dirt cheap and one is bound to go bad when you need it most.

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6

Figured I’d resurrect this thread rather than starting a new one.

My question is: has anyone used a float valve other than the Hudson? It seems like the Hudson design takes up a lot of space in the tank. I’d like to try one with the floatation device and adjustable arm on it, so I can get the maximum water possible in my tank. Just not sure which one to get, that won’t restrict the incoming flow.

7

I was looking at these the other day for the exact same reason since I’m downgrading to a 100 gallon tank for the flatbed. It looks like it still needs a bulb though which wouldn’t save any space, but I was thinking I could screw a bulb directly in instead of a rod.

8

Just stumbled across this too.

9

I removed my Hudson valve…I constantly found myself with too much water.in the tank at the end of the job. If I have to check the tank myself, I will always turn the water off and use up the water before I am ready to leave.

I know that I could put the valve lower in the tank…but I am accustomed to monitoring it, now, so it is no issue.

10

You could always use a float valve from a toilet bowl not sure if you would save space though.

11

Way. Too. Slow. At least the one in my toilet is slow. Takes like 3 minutes for the 5 gallon tank to refill.

But that first one Brodie linked is good for 60+ gpm.

I think the space saving comes from the ability to adjust where the float device is mounted. You can bend the connecting rod however you like, and set it up so the float lines up with the lid of the the tank and doesn’t shut off the flow until it’s practically to the brim. Whereas the hudson valve closes when the water level is still several inches from the top of the tank.

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12

I’m guessing you might need the rod to apply enough leverage to close the valve. But you can bend the rod a bit and dial in exactly where the water shuts off.

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13


Just saw this video the other day. May help
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14

Seems like the perfect job for a spring clamp if you’re going with flexible hose for the inlets.

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