Water well hand pumps seem to be making a comeback. We cover two different types…
What Is a Submersible Well Pump?
A submersible well pump is installed inside your home's water well, submerged under the water line. Designed for deep wells that run 75 feet deep or more, their depth allows them to push water up into a pipe that delivers the water to your storage tank.Advantages of a Submersible Well Pump
The number one benefit of this kind of well pump is its efficiency. Because the pump is already in the water, it can push the water up which uses energy more effectively. This offers several benefits including:- Durability - The pump doesn't have to work as hard to move water into the home.
- Speed - There's already water in the pump, so there's no need to prime it to get water into the house, saving time.
- Pressure - A submersible well pump provides stronger, more consistent water pressure.
Disadvantages of a Submersible Well Pump
Since a submersible well pump needs to go directly into the well, it is more complicated to install which is why it should only be put in by experienced well pump technicians. Also, while it's unlikely that these types of pumps will overheat because of the continuous flow of water around the pump,heat can accumulate within the compartment which can lead to a risk of overheating. The biggest drawback to a submersible pump is the upfront cost as well as the well pump maintenance because it is more expensive than that of a standard pump.What Is an Above Ground Well Pump?
The above ground well pump, or jet pump, is installed above the well, either in the home or in a separately built "well house". It is equipped with a suction pipe that uses an impeller to create a vacuum and pull water up through a nozzle. Above ground well pumps are large and powerful because the energy needed to pull water up is greater than the energy needed to push the way a submersible well pump does. This option is generally best for homes with shallow wells or wells that run less than 75 feet deep.Advantages of an Above Ground Well Pump
The above ground well pump offers homeowners several benefits, including:- Steady water flow - Because it can move water across a long distance, this is good for when the well is farther from the house.
- Requires minimal maintenance
- Inexpensive
Disadvantages of an Above Ground Well Pump
The biggest issue most homeowners have with the above ground well pump is that it needs to be primed to function. This means that water has to be drawn up into the well, and then sent into the house. You can't just turn it on and get water instantly. Also, its efficiency is minimized the deeper the well is, and sand, debris, and plant matter can damage the inner workings of the motors. One other thing to consider is that the noise from the pump may be distracting or annoying if it's near your home.How Do I Know What Size Well Pump I Need?
The size of the well pump you buy will depend on the water needs of your home. Pumps are rated in gallons per minute (GPM). A typical 3-4 bedroom home can require 8-12 GPM. If you don’t know what size pump to buy, many people add one GPM for every water fixture in their home. This can include washing machines, showers, dishwashers, sinks, and any outdoor fixtures you may have. Be sure not to purchase an oversized pump because it will not perform well and you will waste energy. The team at A&T Well and Pump can also advise you about the best size well pump to purchase.FAQ About Above Ground Pumps and Submersible Well Pumps
What type of pump is best for a shallow well?
An above ground well pump is typically recommended if you have a shallow well.Why is a submersible well pump recommended for deep wells?
A submersible well pump is generally more effective at greater depths because it pushes the water upward. Remember, a submersible pump won’t work unless it is completely submerged in liquid.How long does a submersible well pump last?
A submersible well pump is known for its reliability. It can often perform for up to 25 years before needing to be serviced.How long does an above ground well pump last?
An above ground well pump generally lasts anywhere from 4 to 20 years, with the average being 10 years.What factors impact how long a pump will last?
The type and quality of the motor will have an impact on how long the pump will last. The amount of water sediment will also play a role. Since sediment is rough, it can wear down pump bearings. Sediment and other contaminants found in shallow water can shorten a pump’s life. You also want to be sure your pump was installed properly. A solid installation that takes into account filters and wiring can also impact your pump’s life expectancy.Contact Us for Well Pump Installation in Raleigh
Whether you need a submersible well pump or above ground well pump, we can help. With an experienced, licensed team of well pump technicians, we can help you determine the right pump for your home, including the best type of pump to ensure you have a consistent flow of fresh, clean water into your home. To schedule service or learn more about how we can help you, reach out to us today at 919-291-4063 or fill out the contact form below."*" indicates required fields