Signs of a Failing Hydraulic Accumulator

The most common signs of a failing hydraulic accumulator are a slow or spongy system, a pump that cycles too frequently, pressure spikes or shock that damage components, and a unit that won’t hold pressure. These usually trace back to a lost nitrogen charge, a failed bladder or diaphragm, or worn seals — all of which we can diagnose and repair.

Common symptoms and what they mean

If you’re seeing any of these, the accumulator is a likely cause:

●        Slow or spongy operation — incorrect pre-charge or a failed bladder

●        Pump cycling too frequently — the accumulator is losing its nitrogen charge

●        Pressure spikes or shock damaging components — accumulator failure or wrong size

●        Won’t hold pressure — failed bladder/diaphragm, worn seals or a leaking gas valve

●        Visible oil or gas leaks — a seal or shell problem

Why accumulators fail

Accumulators fail for a handful of predictable reasons: gradual nitrogen loss over time, bladder or diaphragm fatigue, worn seals, fluid contamination, an incorrect pre-charge, or temperature extremes. Most are repairable once diagnosed — the key is catching it before it damages the rest of the system.

What to do about it

Don’t attempt to disassemble a suspect accumulator — it stores energy under high-pressure nitrogen. Have it tested, and depending on the result, recharged or rebuilt. Northland diagnoses, tests, recharges and rebuilds accumulators in Edmonton and on-site. See accumulator repair & rebuild, nitrogen charging and testing.

Get your accumulator diagnosed

Not sure if the accumulator is the problem? Send us the symptoms and the unit’s details, or call 780-466-1172, and we’ll help you diagnose it.

Frequently Asked Questions