Like electricity and natural gas are essential commodities, water is also a precious commodity. Although our earth is covered with 71% water bodies, did you know only 0.3% of it is usable by humans? Our planet may not run out of water completely but clean fresh water is not always available where and when humans need it. So if you have a water pump installed, you are lucky.
If you are lucky enough to be an owner of a private well or are going through with a well pump installation on your property, there are many things you will have to keep in mind and consider before starting the process. We have mentioned below some things you should be well aware of before you start the process.
HOW A WELL PUMP WORKS?
A good pump lifts water from your well and transfers it to a storage tank. At present times, most pumps are electric and use methods like suction to draw water from the well. Primary well pumps typically are available in two types: –
Jet Pumps
Jet pumps include a pump and a motor to drive them. Such type of system always includes a pressurized water tank in the home. It is more suitable for homes with shallow wells. They are available in both single drop system or double drops system. They tend to require less maintenance as they are above the ground and are easily accessible.
Submersible Pumps
Submersible pumps are placed below the waterline of your well and include a pump motor. There is an internal check valve that regulates the flow of water. It may not necessarily include a pressurized water tank. It is suitable for homes with deep wells. They can draw water from up to 400ft but are difficult to maintain as they are required to pull up while maintenance. However, they are more energy-efficient and have fewer problems than jet pumps.
The main difference between them is that a jet pump pulls water while a submersible pump pushes the water upward. Before you install a well pump, consulting a water well company is a good way to ensure what type of well pump is suitable for your home. What type of well pump will work for you will depend on the location and depth of your well.
IDENTIFYING POTENTIAL WELL PUMP PROBLEMS
Installing a well pump is easier than maintaining it. Keep in mind about repairs or their maintenance before you go through with installing it. There can be obvious problems like less water pressure, dirty water, odd noises, unusual high electricity bills, etc., but there can also be problems which are less obvious and require proper investigation and repair like the following: –
The Breaker
Always keep in mind to check the breaker first. It is sometimes extremely easy to repair as it may require a simple turning back on. But after this, you can still face problems like no water, you should shut it down to prevent further damage and call your water well company.
The Right Size of your Well Pump
The size of your well pump is determined by the size of your system, fixtures in both interior and exterior, appliances, and the demand for water. You may need a larger pump if you have added extra features like a new bathroom or a kitchen to your home. Keeping such extra constructions is necessary to select the right size.
Drought or Dry Spell
Instead of water, if you get air through the pipes, it may be due to a decrease in water levels caused by lack of rain and long durations of hot weather. You can also diagnose this problem if you are getting foul-tasting or muddy water. To avoid this, placing your well pump even deeper into the well is required.
Troubleshoot of Pressure Tank
Your well pump also includes a pressure tank. Similar to a circuit breaker, a pressure switch is located on top of the feed line and this can cause problems. It is easy to reset and it mostly solves the problem you are facing. However, if the problem persists, contact your water well company.
PERFORM REGULAR MAINTENANCE
To avoid going through such problems, we advise you to perform regular maintenance and services. Your well pump can last for 15 years or longer if you take proper care of it. The best way to ensure efficiency is to schedule maintenance inspections annually in advance.
Gathering such information and more is required before you go through a well pump installation for your property. It sure has various benefits but can cause you to discomfort if not properly taken care of. Avoid problems by maintaining them properly and consult your company for the same.
