If your home is having water issues and someone tells you to check your well pump, would you know how to do it? Do you know which type of well pump you have? Let’s look at the answers to these questions and more.
What Is a Well Pump?
A well pump is a device that takes underground water from private wells and delivers it into homes. To counteract gravity, they need an external force to move the water up. Its main components are the motor, the pressure switch, and the pressure tank.
How Does a Well Pump Work?
A well pump takes water from an underground well and brings it into your home. A submersible pump pushes water up. Jet and centrifugal pumps pull water down.
All types use pressure to accomplish their goals. The pump is controlled by a switch that turns it on when the pressure reaches 40 PSI and off when the pressure reaches 60 PSI. The tank works like a dispenser, taking the water from underground and connecting it to your water faucets.
Types of Well Pumps
Let’s look at the three main types of pumps:
Submersible Well Pumps
- Installed in the well itself, usually in the casing
- Work up to 400 feet
- Versatile
- Durable and longer-lasting than other types
- Lower electric bills
- More expensive to install and maintain
- Corrode easily
Jet Pumps (Single-Drop & Double-Drop)
- Usually installed above-ground/in the home
- Use suction to transport water
- Single drops work for wells 25 feet deep, double-drops up to 100 feet
- Easier and cheaper to install and maintain than submersibles
- Less prone to corrosion
- Less energy efficient than submersibles
- Need to be primed
- Longer distances mean less suction
Centrifugal Pumps
- Use a fan to send water into the tank
- Simple and affordable
- Easiest to maintain
- Limited to wells 25 feet or less
Choosing the Right Well Pump for Your Home
First, find the depth of your well and see which pumps will work. Then, determine the right pump size to ensure efficiency. Pumps are measured by Gallons Per Minute (GPM) and horsepower.
The GPM will be determined by how much daily water you use. The longer the distance the water needs to travel, the more horsepower you’ll need. Replacement pumps should have the same horsepower and GPM.
How Long Do Well Pumps Last?
Submersible pumps last 8–15 years, while jet pumps last 7-12. If your pump cycles/runs constantly, produces bad-smelling/tasting water, the pressure is lower than normal, or your electrical bill spikes, it’s time for a replacement.
Well Pump Maintenance and Troubleshooting
General advice: Check the pressure switch, tank, and wiring for any potential problems. Look for leaks. Always consider calling in the professionals.
Pump short-cycling: Check for leaks and inspect the line for clogs
Loss of water pressure: Check for leaks, adjust the pressure switch, and replace the filter.
Air in the water lines: Turn off the water line and power, run the faucets, and check for leaks.
Key Components of a Well Water System
Well casing/cap: The well casing is a protective tube that keeps dirt and minerals out of the water and prevents the well from collapsing. The above-ground cap seals the well to prevent contaminants from entering.
Drop pipe/foot valve: The drop pipe carries water from the submersible pump in your well to your home. At the bottom is the foot valve that keeps the pump primed.
Pressure tank & switch: The pressure tank stores water and uses compressed air to deliver it to the taps. It is controlled by a switch that keeps the water flow constant.
Water treatment/filtration: Optional additions that filter, purify, and/or soften water by removing minerals and contaminants.
FAQs About Well Pumps
How do I know what size well pump I need?
First, determine the depth of your well. Next, calculate the GPM by counting the fixtures in your home (toilets, sinks, showers, etc). You’ll usually need one GPM per fixture.
Can I install a well pump myself?
Only if you have experience with plumbing and electrical work, as water and electricity can be dangerous. For most people, it’s best to call the professionals.
Why is my well pump running constantly?
A constantly-running pump usually means a leak or a pressure/mechanical issue. Follow our troubleshooting guide above or call the professionals.
What’s the difference between a shallow well and a deep well pump?
Shallow pumps pull the water up, while a deep well pump pushes water down.
How do I extend the life of my well pump?
Regular inspections and maintenance are the best ways to extend the life of your well pump.
Call The Punctual Plumbers for Well Pump Services
Well pumps are a vital piece of infrastructure for homes, as they ensure the safe and steady flow of water. You’ll need the correct type and size of pump, which should also undergo routine maintenance.
If you’re having issues with your well pump in or near Clearwater, Florida, call the Punctual Plumbers. At Benjamin Franklin Plumbers, our experts can repair, replace, or install your well pump and keep water flowing to your home for many years to come.
Don’t delay – call Benjamin Franklin Plumbing today!