updated July 1, 2025
Case Study: How Metro Group Fixed a Rooftop Water Tank Heater and Water Level Switch
A Times Square hotel needed help troubleshooting their tank heaters and reconnecting water level switches. Here’s what we did.
When your rooftop water tank heater isn’t working or your Water Level Switches (WLS) are disconnected, it can put your building at risk. A Times Square hotel recently faced this exact situation and called Metro Group for help. Here’s how we resolved the issue and what every NYC building owner or property manager should know to keep their rooftop water tank systems running safely and efficiently.
Why Was the Rooftop Water Tank System Failing?
The hotel had recently installed two electric heaters on their rooftop tanks, but they couldn’t get them to power on. They also discovered that the WLS weren’t connected, leaving them without a way to monitor tank levels or trigger alerts.
These issues are more common than you might think, especially when:
- Heating systems are installed but not properly wired
- Thermostats or float switches are misconfigured
- Wiring to the alarm panel or controls is incomplete or faulty
What Did Metro Group Do to Resolve the Issue?
Metro Group dispatched a team of experienced technicians to assess and repair the system. Here’s what we did:
- Wired low-water cut-off switches for each tank heater to protect against dry firing.
- Ran new seal-tight conduit from the existing heater box to the float switch.
- Corrected a faulty thermostat wiring in Tank #1 to ensure proper temperature control.
- Connected and powered the WLS for both tanks.
- Tested the building’s alarm panel to confirm all systems were communicating correctly.
Each component was tested and verified to ensure safe, reliable operation.
Why Are These Fixes So Important?
When a rooftop water tank system fails, it goes beyond inconvenience and becomes a significant risk to building operations and safety.
Without working heaters, water in the tanks can freeze in colder weather, leading to cracked pipes, pump damage, or loss of service. Without operational water level switches, you may lose the ability to detect low water levels or prevent overflow, resulting in costly damage or non-compliance.
Metro Group’s quick intervention helped this hotel:
- Restore power to their tank heaters
- Ensure safe and functional monitoring with WLS
- Avoid winter-related failures and improve system reliability
When Should You Service a Rooftop Water Tank in NYC?
We recommend that building owners and facility managers:
- Inspect tank systems at the end of winter or start of spring
- Test heaters and float switches before cold weather returns
- Perform regular seasonal maintenance to identify wiring issues, corrosion, or disconnected components
Even if your system wasn’t used heavily this past winter, it’s still smart to test and clean it as part of your off-season routine.
Who to Call for Rooftop Water Tank Repairs in NYC
Metro Group has been a trusted provider of building maintenance and repair services in New York City since 1925. Our licensed technicians are experts in:
- Rooftop water tank maintenance and cleaning
- Heater and thermostat installations
- Water level switch wiring and alarm testing
- Seasonal system inspections and compliance support
If your tank system needs repair or you’re not sure what’s working, we’re here to help.
Need Help with Your Rooftop Water Tank System?
Metro Group has been a trusted provider of building solutions since 1925. We’re ready to help with any electrical issue. Contact us today to get a free quote on any of our licensed electrical services.
Case Study: Transforming a Water Tank Pump System with a Modern Control Panel Upgrade
Metro Group Upgrades an Outdated Pump Control System
In commercial buildings, reliable water systems are essential for tenant safety. When a Murray Hill building’s water tank pump control system failed, leaving them dependent on a temporary tether float switch, Metro Group stepped in to provide a seamless, long-term solution.
How We Revamped the Water Tank Pump Control Panel
Our electrical team executed a comprehensive plan to replace the outdated system with a modern, efficient control panel. Here’s a breakdown of our solution:
Preparing for a Smooth Pump Control Panel Replacement:
- Traced, tagged, and disconnected the control and power wires.
- Removed the existing control panel and set up temporary power to the tether float switch to ensure uninterrupted operation.
Installing a Modern Water Tank Control Panel:
- Constructed a rack to mount the new control panel.
- Installed a transformer to power the panel.
- Mounted and wired the new control/alarm panel to the breaker and transformer.
Upgrading Water Tank Sensors for Improved Accuracy:
- Installed a flange in the water tank to support a new flow line sensor.
- Replaced the tether float with the new sensor and connected it to the control panel.
Programming and Testing for Reliable Water Management:
- Programmed relay points to optimize system functionality.
- Configured and tested water level settings in the new panel.
- Connected the overload signal and advisory alarm in the lobby to the new control system.
Key Benefits of Upgrading to a Modern Water Tank Control System
The new system offers advanced functionality and reliability:
- State-of-the-Art Control: Features a Rhombus Digital Pump-Up Control with precise water level management.
- Ease of Use: Includes a digital bar graph and water level readout on the panel face, allowing for real-time monitoring.
- User-Friendly Adjustments: Alarm and water levels can be easily set directly on the controller, eliminating the need for a laptop.
This upgrade not only enhances the system’s reliability but also simplifies the management process for building operators.
Comprehensive Support and Expertise for Your Building’s Infrastructure Needs
Metro Group’s commitment goes beyond installation—our hands-on training ensures the customer fully understands and benefits from their upgraded equipment. This approach reflects our dedication to long-term support.
Ready to Upgrade Your Water Tank System?
Metro Group has been the trusted source for building solutions since 1925. We provide tailored solutions for building infrastructure challenges, ensuring smooth, efficient operations – whether upgrading water tank pump control panels or other critical services. Contact us today to learn how we can modernize your electrical systems and support all your building’s needs.
