Main Causes of Well Pump Failure
A well-maintained well pump should last approximately 10 to 15 years.
A personal well offers excellent advantages, such as fresh, easily accessible water and lower monthly water costs. However, the freedom of bypassing a municipal water supply company comes with additional water technology repair and maintenance. A well-maintained well pump should last approximately 10 to 15 years. However, some actions can cause it to burn out and need repair or early replacement.
Let's discuss some common causes of well pump failure:
Not enough air in the water tank
The well's water tank system restricts how frequently and satisfactorily the pump operates. For example, a well pump will overheat if it runs too long, and regular on-and-off activation will advance wear. In addition, if the air bladder inside the well tank deteriorates or cracks, water may get inside and cause a "water-logged" effect, causing a need for a replacement.
The well tank requires enough air space to fill it with large amounts of water. When the air volume is reduced, only a small volume of water can be pumped into the tank before maximum pressure is reached and the pump switches off. When the tank has too much water and not enough air, the pump will switch to operating in short bursts, which burns it out faster.
Failing well pump pressure switch
The pressure switch can wear out over time. A malfunctioning pressure switch will cause the well pump to operate too long or too often, which can also potentially cause pump failure. If the switch lets the pressure get too high, additional stress will be placed on the tank pipes and, in theory, cause them to crack or burst.
The well's construction
The longevity of a well pump's setup will depend on optimal conditions. For example, wells constructed with only PVC piping instead of PVC with a steel casing have a higher chance of failure. PVC piping alone is prone to cracks and breakage, and if it is not encased in steel, it will degrade more quickly in the soil.
In addition, if the water in the area has high sediment content (e.g., minerals, sand, etc.), it will trigger faster wear.
Reasons for a well pump's early retirement
The main reason a well pump fails prematurely is due to it being overworked. This could arise from well-tank problems such as insufficient air, a malfunctioning pressure switch, or PVC pipework construction.
Maximize the water flow
If you're a proud well owner experiencing issues with the water flow in your home, consider reaching out to a pump repair specialist. They can quickly and efficiently diagnose the root cause of a problem, advise on ways to prevent early well pump failure, or check up on the general condition of your well pump, potentially saving you from costly repairs.
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.
