accumulator
An accumulator is a reservoir that holds pressure when the pump is off (reducing how often it has to cycle) and helps a bit to manage "water hammer" pressure surges as the system is cycled on and off.
It is not absolutely necessary but a good idea in my opinion. It also will provide some reserve if your pump dies, so you have a gradual fall off of water pressure/flow instead of a sudden cut off as would happen with a direct connected pump.
I use the shurflo accumulator intended for RV water systems # 181-203. It has a capacity of 71 ml (24 fluid ounces) which is about 14 seconds of full flow on my system. It has a max pressure rating of 125 psi. It's a little large if space is an issue (about the size of a 1 liter bottle).
You should set the air pressure on the bladder to a pressure the same or slightly below the turn off pressure on your pump pressure switch. Pressurize the bladder with the pump off, and at least one connection open so the bladder can inflate properly.
Larry
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