What Are Well Pumps and How Do They Work?

The Inside Scoop on Well Pumps

The well pump is the heart of the entire water well system. It is the part of the system that actually “pumps” the water upwards (hence the name) and into the area where it is needed, usually the home or a designated water system.

Obviously, with a well pump, homes that aren’t located in cities would not have access to running water. But how do they work? And what issues can happen with them? Plumbers in Stuart, FL have some information to share.

What Makes up a Working Well Pump?

There are two types of well pumps that are most popular with homeowners: submersible pumps and jet pumps. The type selected depends on the well’s depth and the amount of water the household needs.

The way both well pumps work is by using centrifugal force. The way they do this is with spinning rotors, called impellers, which essentially create a vacuum that forces the water upward. The water then travels through the well casing and ends up in the distribution system.

The difference between a submersible pump and a jet pump is that jet pumps are placed above the ground and submersible pumps are obviously located underwater. Both types of well pumps make use of a part known as the pressure tank, which helps it to maintain constant water pressure.

They are also monitored with a pressure switch and a control box so that they aren’t running constantly. For a working well pump, all of these parts must be in perfect working order.

What Issues Occur With Well Pumps?

Like any water system, issues can occur with well pumps. The vast majority of them are an easy fix for a trained plumber if caught early enough. Here are some of the most common signs that the system needs to be evaluated.

• An increase in the water bill.
• Sputtering water or no water at all.
• Bad tasting or smelling water.
• Muddy or cloudy water.
• Changes in water pressure in the home.
• Strange noises.
• A constantly running well pump.

These issues can ultimately cause the breakdown of the entire system and the loss of water to the home. It is imperative to have any of these well pump symptoms evaluated by a plumber as soon as possible.

What Is the Lifespan of a Well Pump?

Under the best circumstances and with the recommended care and maintenance, submersible well pumps last between 8 and 10 years. Jet pumps tend to last a little longer, at around 15 years, when taken care of properly.

To keep either running smoothly, homeowners should perform a regular visual inspection at least a few times a year. It is also important to have a licensed plumber do routine maintenance. This annual maintenance includes checking for appropriate pumping levels, water pressure, and working parts.

In addition to checking the physical parts of the well pump, the water in the well should also be checked for bacteria to verify it is safe. Water can also be checked to see if a water softener would be needed for hard water.

About Allore’s Plumbing Services LLC

Florida is the home of Allore’s Plumbing Services LLC. With a 100% satisfaction guarantee and highly trained technicians, they provide 24-hour emergency services as well as most routine plumbing maintenance services in Stuart. All staff are state-certified and appropriately licensed.

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