A Quick Guide to Choosing a Well Pump
Well pumps are available in varied designs, sizes, and types, and not every pump is suitable for an existing well.
Families relying on wells for their water need an appropriately powered well pump to ensure uninterrupted water supply even during peak hours. A well pump pulls water from an underground water source into the home. It is used in rural areas where homes do not have access to the municipal water system. Well pumps are installed after digging or drilling the well.
Well pumps are available in varied designs, sizes, and types, and not every pump is suitable for an existing well. If you need a new or replacement well pump for the home, here are a few points to consider in choosing the right well pump:
The well depth
The well depth determines how much distance the water will have to travel before it reaches the surface. Dug wells have a depth of about 30 feet or less, driven wells have a depth of about 50 feet, and drilled wells can go up to hundreds of feet below ground. While a shallow pump will suffice for wells 25 feet deep or less, deep well jet pumps or submersible pumps are more suitable for deeper wells. The diameter of the well casing also determines the type of pump. Wells with no casing are shallow. A convertible jet pump with unique accessories for 2-inch well casings, and if the casing is 4-inch or more in diameter, use a jet well or deep well submersible pump.
Types of pumps
Different well pumps work differently and have distinct installation processes. Common types of well pumps are:
Centrifugal pumps are more affordable and require less maintenance than other pumps. Centrifugal pumps are placed in a mechanical structure adjacent to the well. An internal fan rotates in these pumps to create suction. These are ideal only for wells not deeper than 25 feet as they fail to generate enough suction for deep wells.
Submersible pumps are versatile and widely popular well pumps. Submersible pumps are suitable for both shallow and deep wells. These pumps have to be completely submerged under water to function correctly. Submersible pumps are durable and watertight. While these pumps rarely need repairs, when they do, they should be removed from the well first.
Jet pumps are powerful and can quickly deliver more water than their counterparts. These are suitable for wells of all depths. Jet pumps are either single-drop or double-drop. The single-drop model is ideal for shallow wells and is installed inside the home or an outbuilding. The double-drop model is appropriate for deep wells; its motor remains above the wall, and the jet assembly is installed in the well.
Pump size
Besides choosing the right pump, it is also crucial to size it correctly. Properly-sized pumps are more efficient, perform better, and are more capable of satisfying daily water needs. Gallons per minute (GPM) and water pressure in pounds per square inch (PSI) are important sizing considerations. Account for the number of home plumbing fixtures and overall household water usage while determining the best-sized pump. While replacing a well pump, pick one with the same horsepower unless there are no new members or appliances added.
Contact us for assistance in choosing the best well pump for the home.
Pump Repair Services provides residential and commercial pump repair services for all types of pumps and custom water filtration services in the Orlando area. We offer 24-hour emergency service. Call us at (407)625-5499.
