Short cycling of the potable water pump is avoided by the proper use of what?

Short cycling of the potable water pump is best avoided through the proper management of the air charge in the pressure tank. When the tank is half full of water, ensuring the air charge is correct means maintaining an adequate cushion of air above the water. This cushion provides the necessary pressure for the system to function efficiently.

If the air charge is insufficient, the pump may rapidly turn on and off (short cycling) as it struggles to maintain the required water pressure. An optimal air charge allows the water system to operate within a stable pressure range, thereby preventing constant cycling, which can lead to premature wear on the pump and increased energy consumption.

The other options, while possibly contributing to the overall health of the system, do not directly address the issue of short cycling in the context of how the air pressure in the tank interacts with the water supply system. Frequent maintenance schedules, while important, focus on upkeep rather than addressing short cycling specifically. Installing a larger pump or adding more water to the tank may not solve the underlying issue related to atmospheric pressure and air volume management essential for stable pump operation.