Even without access to a municipal water system, you can still obtain fresh water. Hook a well pump up to a nearby fresh water well to supply your plumbing system. Wells range in size and depth, so it’s crucial to find the right well pump for yours to maximize efficiency. The right pump for your home will ultimately depend on the size and depth of the well, but cost is also a key factor to consider.
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Find an InstallerWell pumps push water from a well into a storage tank where it sits until you need it. To do this, well pumps use a pressure tank system that sends water from the reservoir or storage tank into your home’s plumbing.
As water pumps into the tank, its air pressure increases until it reaches a specific, preset level. When it reaches that point, the air pressure will push water through your home’s plumbing system. Air quality will lower as you use the water in the tank, and the pump will turn back on when the air pressure lowers to a certain point. That ensures that you always have the water you need at the ready.
Typically, well pumps fall into one of two categories: jet or submersible. Jet well pumps are located above ground and use a motor and suction pipe to pull water above ground. Submersible well pumps operate below the ground and use pressurized water to push water to the surface and into an above-ground storage tank.
There are also centrifugal and hand pumps that work best for homes with more shallow wells where a jet or submersible well pump may not work, or on properties that work off the grid. These pumps sit above ground, drawing water out through a single pipe, kind of like a straw.
The average cost to install or replace a well pump ranges from $900 to $2,500, with a national average of about $1,700.
Not including installation, a well pump costs between $200 and $800 on average, but costs can vary depending on the size and type of pump. Jet pumps typically cost between $100 and $800, while submersible well pumps cost between $200 and $1,200.
Because centrifugal and hand well pumps are smaller, they are less expensive. Expect to pay between $100 and $500 for a centrifugal pump and about $150 for a hand pump.
One of the most popular well pump choices among homeowners, submersible well pumps look like long metal cylinders that are completely submerged in a well. They use a motor to draw water from the well up through the pump and into an above-ground reservoir.
Submersible well pumps can operate at a variety of depths. So if you live in a dry area where wells can reach hundreds of feet in depth, a submersible well pump will still work for you. This won’t increase energy costs either because submersible well pumps take advantage of gravity in the pumping process.
Because they are located underwater, the engines of submersible well pumps always stay cool, which means they last significantly longer than other pumps whose motors can burn out quickly. Submersible pumps can last up to 25 years, whereas other pump types may only last five or six.
That said, sitting underwater can cause damage to pumps over time. Submersible well pumps are designed to be well-sealed around the motor. But over time, the seal can corrode and allow water to get into spaces where it isn’t supposed to be. A wet motor is useless until repaired.
At $200 to $1,200, submersible well pumps are the most expensive type of well pumps available. But with a long lifespan and relatively little maintenance needs, the high price tag could be worth it.
There are two types of jet pumps: those for deep wells and those for shallow ones. Shallow well jet pumps work similarly to submersible well pumps, but they only work for wells at a depth of 25 feet or less. Deep well pumps are more powerful, meaning they can function in wells as deep as 100 feet. But the deeper the well is, the less efficient the pump will be since its motor will have to work harder.
Both types of jet pumps can be offset from the well site to give you easy access to the pump when needed. This comes in handy when repairs are necessary, which is beneficial since jet well pumps are very susceptible to damage from sand (if you live in an area with sandy soil, beware).
Not only can they supply your home’s plumbing system with well water, but jet well pumps can also be used for things like irrigation and gardening.
Centrifugal pumps are simple well pumps. They use the kinetic energy of a motor to transport water from one end of the pump to the other.
Unlike submersible well pumps, centrifugal well pumps do not have drive seals. That eliminates the risk of corrosion and costly repairs.
Centrifugal well pumps are much smaller than other types of well pumps, which means they are easy to access and maintain when necessary. Plus, they’re a lot less expensive than other types. But their small size limits them in the amount of power they have to suck up water. They work best in shallow wells no deeper than 25 feet.
Hand pumps utilize a hand-cranked lever that draws water out of the well and transports it into a holding tank to be sent to your home’s plumbing system. These manual types of pumps are not as common as other well pump types, but they come in handy for off-the-grid installations.
Hand pumps are the least expensive of all well pump types, but using them can be physically tiring.
How to Choose a Well Pump
A well pump is a crucial piece of home plumbing that delivers water to your property. Choosing a pump that matches your specific needs and the conditions in your area is essential. Use these tips to find the right pump for your property.
For wells less than 25 feet deep, installing a shallow jet pump will provide a reliable source of water for your home.
For wells between 25 and 110 feet, installing a deep jet pump will provide a reliable source of water for your home.
For wells between 110 and 400 feet deep, installing a four-inch submersible pump will provide a reliable source of water for your home.
Well Depth
Determining your well’s depth is a must when shopping for a well pump. A well drillers’ report should give you the depth of your well, but it’s also possible to measure it yourself.
Find a long piece of string, attach a fishing bobber to one end, then lower the bobber down until you feel it floating. Marking the string once you remove the slack will ensure a proper well pump height.
How to Prime a Well Pump
A well pump is a simple machine that can be adjusted to the needs of your property. However, a large amount of water pressure can damage the pump, so it is important to prime it properly before turning on the faucet.
To prime a well pump, disconnect it from all power sources. Then, remove the prime plug and open the release valves so that pressure buildup does not occur. Next, run a hose to the well pump opening where the prime plug was. Once filled with water and primed, place the prime plug back at its original location and reconnect the pump to power.
How to Size a Well Pump
The size of your well is one of the most important factors in determining which pump to use. You will also need to consider how many people live in your home. The more people, the more water they will use. If you regularly run a dishwasher or clothes washer, consider upgrading to a larger system that can handle the extra capacity.
To find out how many gallons per minute your well needs, you need to know the measurements of your well. For instance, a typical home with three or four bedrooms will require between 8 and 12 GPM.
To determine which type of well pump is best for you, consider the depth of your well. If the well you’ll be using is more than 25 feet deep, you can count out centrifugal and shallow well jet pumps. If it’s less than 25 feet deep, you have a plethora of options. Talk to a professional to help you determine what’s best for you.
It’s also important to calculate how much water you’ll need at any given time. Pumps are typically rated in gallons per minute (GPM). The average three to four bedroom home requires eight to 12 GPM. You can roughly calculate this number by adding one GPM for every fixture requiring well water.
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Wondering How Do Home Well Water Pump and Pressure Systems Work?
Knowing the basics of how your well water system functions is important when selecting a water treatment system because if the wrong type of treatment system is used, it can adversely affect the water pressure and flow rate inside the home.
Related links:For example, if the well uses a pressure tank, a water treatment system must be installed after the pressure tank to avoid causing damage to the well pump.
When you open a faucet in your home or turn on the shower or bath you expect water to flow at a certain flow rate and with good water pressure.
Water pressure in your pipes and pressure system causes your water to flow. If your home is on city utilities, water pressure is controlled by your local water company or utility.
If your home is on a well, you need a pump and pressure tank to build that pressure unless you have a storage tank high enough on a hill nearby to get gravity pressure. Some folks will have a cistern water pump system, where the water is stored in an underground concrete or fiberglass tank called a cistern.
The pressure tank in your well system creates water pressure by using compressed air. Because of this pressure, when a valve or faucet is opened in your home the water is pushed out of the tank through the pipes in your home.
When the water in the pressure tank drops below a preset level, a pressure switch is activated which turns on the pump. The pump then refills the pressure tank. A check valve (a one-way valve) keeps the pressure in your pressure tank from flowing back down the well. The combination of the pressure tank, pressure switch, check valve and pump is what allows water to flow through your home.
Pressure tanks, which also act as mini storage tanks for your home, are generally set to keep pressure within 20 pounds per square inch (PSI) of your start and stop settings.
For example, many homes on well water have the pressure set to turn on at 40 PSI and off at 60 PSI. If the pressure drops below 40 PSI, the pump turns on and brings the pressure back to 60 PSI before cutting off and turning off the pump again.
The pressure tank acts as a reservoir and allows water to be drawn from the tank without the pump turning on and off each time the water is turned on.
This protects the pump and extends the life of the pump. A pressure tank also cuts back on instances of “water-hammer” and reduces air in the pipes and controls the pressure in your water system.
Here is more information on typical well pressure tank installation. This describes a submersible well pump and not an above ground well pump.
Some folks will ask “where is the well pump located?” Look for your well head in pump sheds, under ground in vaults or in the middle of a field. It can be located in various places but it is usually in a place where a pumping rig can drive in and service it.
Most well water is pumped out of the ground automatically using a submersible pump or a jet pump that sits on top of the ground and draws water out of the ground to create water pressure for the home.
Some well water systems use a large storage tank to store the water before being pumped again to the house. Other well water systems are gravity fed and use gravity to provide water pressure to the house.
There are many types and sizes of pumps for a home pressurized water system. Some are only designed to remove water from a source. Others not only remove the water but also force it through the rest of the water system. Most homes in the U.S and Canada use submersible pumps. Submersible well pumps are proven reliable pump.
A shallow well jet pump is sometimes used when the groundwater is not more than about 30 feet deep. Jet pumps use a jet that pumps some water back down the well and allows the pump to draw up water to the surface.
Some pumps are for special jobs such as boosting pressure or supplying a special outlet. Booster pumps are to be installed after a storage tank.
Pressure tanks provide storage for your water system. There are three general types of water storage tanks:
Diaphragm bladder tanks are the most common type used in modern water systems. These tanks have a flexible rubber diaphragm inside that separates the air and water. When water is pumped into the tank, it compresses the air and builds up pressure to draw water. The compressed air then pushes the water out of the tank when a faucet is turned on.
Float or water-separating tanks have a float that rises and falls with the water level, separating the air from the water. However, these tanks are no longer used as they tend to become waterlogged over time.
Air to Water galvanized steel tanks were once popular but have been replaced by bladder tanks due to their tendency to rust and leak.
Proper maintenance of well pumps and pressure tanks is essential to ensure a continuous and reliable water supply. Here are some tips to help keep your system running smoothly:
By following these maintenance tips, you can ensure your well pump and pressure tank continue to provide you with a reliable water supply for years to come. Additionally, it is important to regularly test your water quality and have your well system professionally serviced every few years to catch any potential issues early on.
This will not only help maintain the longevity of your equipment but also ensure the safety and quality of your drinking water. Remember, prevention is key when it comes to maintaining a well system. So take the time to properly care for your well pump and pressure tank, and you'll have peace of mind knowing that your water supply is in good hands.
Keep in mind that different states and provinces may have different regulations and guidelines for well-maintenance, so be sure to check with your local authorities for specific recommendations. With proper care and maintenance, your well pump and pressure tank will continue to provide you with clean and reliable water for many years to come.
Regular maintenance and proper care of your well pump and pressure tank are essential in keeping them functioning efficiently. Don't hesitate to seek professional help when needed, and always prioritize the safety and quality of your drinking water.
With these tips in mind, you can rest assured that your well system will continue to provide you with clean and healthy water for all your household needs.
Some well owners like to make arrangements for additional water storage tanks. Generally speaking, the additional storage capacity of one day's water supply is sufficient.
Additional water storage is useful when there are power outages and other emergencies. It can also be beneficial for those who live in areas with frequent droughts or have limited access to water resources.
However, it is important to note that having additional storage does not replace the need for a reliable pump and pressure tank system. It should be seen as a supplement rather than a substitute.
When installing additional storage tanks, make sure they are properly sealed to prevent contamination and maintain water quality. It is also recommended to regularly clean and disinfect these tanks to prevent any bacteria or algae growth.
Overall, adding extra storage capacity can provide convenience and peace of mind for well owners, but it should not be relied upon as the sole source of water supply. Proper maintenance and care of your pump and pressure tank system should always remain a top priority.
So, consider adding extra storage as a backup plan, but don't neglect the proper maintenance of your primary well system. With these tips and guidelines in mind, you can ensure a continuous supply of clean and safe water for your household needs.
Thanks for reading “How Do Home Well Water Pump and Pressure Systems Work”.
Check out: 7 Signs Your Water Well is in Trouble
Here is how to find out more information on your well:
Contact the well contractor who installed your well. Or find a water well contractor in your area by looking in your local telephone directory.
Many states maintain lists of licensed or registered well drillers.
Contact your local health department to find out where in your state you can locate a list.
Most states also have state water well associations, state well driller associations, or state groundwater associations. To get a list of these associations, you can contact the National Ground Water Association at 800-551-7379 or www.ngwa.org.
If you still have questions, don’t hesitate to e-mail us at [email protected], leave us a message on Facebook, or use our online contact form for prompt, personalized assistance from our trained professionals. Thanks for reading!
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