Well Pump Guide: Everything You Need to Know

Many homes require well pumps to get their water supply up into the building, but it can sometimes be confusing when you need to buy a new one; you may also have questions about common well pump repairs. Here is a quick guide to everything that you need to know.

Various Types

There are many types to choose from, so making the right decision is the fist thing you need to do. Shallow pumps are used in wells up to about 25 feet. They are stored in a special "house" and not inside the well itself, and they often come with a tank to keep the water pressure constant.

Deep equipment is used in wells up to 400 feet. These ones are kept inside the well itself and controlled from above; they come in two-wire models and three-wire models.

In addition, you can choose from convertible jet, solar-powered, and manual equipment. Ask your local plumber if you are unsure which is the right option for your home.

Choosing Correctly

The size is the first thing you will have to consider, and for this you should find out the GPM, or gallons per minute. You will normally require something between 8 and 12 GPM for an average home, so don't get one that is too large or you will be wasting your money.

Also, make sure you choose a good system from a recommended manufacturer. This will give you peace of mind that it won't break down as much as a cheaper system. Try to investment a bit more and you can avoid having to make well pump repairs as much as possible.

Maintenance

It may be a good idea to pay an expert to check your equipment on a regular basis. If you just spend a little money on this service, you could save a lot of money in the long term because an expert can spot the problems earlier. You should also make sure you follow the instructions in the user manual. All equipment is slightly different, and following the manufacturer's maintenance instructions is one of the key ways to avoid having to make well pump repairs.

Common Problems to Look Out For

There are some common problems. For example, it may be a problem with the power supply or a tripped electrical circuit, and you may need to check the wiring to find the problem.

If you experience a pressure problem, you should look for the pressure switch and reset it. Alternatively, it could be the pressure tank that is causing the problem.

If the motor stops working, you may need to check the valve to see if it needs replacing. And if the water is coming through brown or impure, this could be due to a broken treatment system.

Always Hire an Expert when in Doubt

If your equipment breaks down, or you experience problems, hire an expert unless you know exactly what you are doing. It is not worth trying to make well pump repairs alone if there is a chance you could make the problem worse. Follow the tips above and good quality equipment should be a good investment that should last you many years.

Sarah Saadoun works for HMS Plumbing, a family-owned business in Manassas, Northern Virginia. If you need well pump repairs, Herve and his dedicated employees at HMS are proud to be serving the plumbing needs of Northern Virginia residents and businesses. For reliable Fairfax plumbers HMS Plumbing is your first choice.

Writer and Online Marketing Manager in London.