Your well will need a pump in order to carry clean, Artesian water from bedrock to the surface where it can be used. It is important to understand what you are getting when you invest in a well pump. How long can you expect your pump to last? Depending on the type of pump, A water pump, how well the pump has been maintained, how much the pump is used, it will last 7 to 15 years.
Types of well pumps
West Winds Water Well offers a variety of models for shallow and deep wells including submersible pumps, centrifugal pumps, and submersible shallow well pumps.
A submersible pump can be used for deep wells because it works from inside the well. From there, it forces the water up where it can be used. A versatile option, this is a popular choice for many wells. The lifespan of a deep well submersible pump is often longer than that of other pump types, about 15 years on average, but this can vary widely. Well-maintained submersible pumps, in favorable conditions can last longer, but poorly-maintained submersible pumps — submersible pumps in wells with a high amount of sediment — may only last 5 or 6 years.
Some shallow well pumps are simply smaller versions of submersible pumps, designed for shallow wells that are less than 25 feet deep. Since it is designed for smaller wells that access groundwater closer to the surface, a shallow submersible well pump is not as heavy-duty as a large submersible pump, but if well-maintained, it can last for years.
A centrifugal pump is also used in wells shallower than 25 feet deep. It uses centrifugal force to drive water up out of the well. Though they can only be used for shallow wells, they do have some advantages. They are easier to maintain and are generally quite affordable. If well-maintained, a centrifugal well pump may last 8 years or more.
How to keep your well pump in good condition for years to come
What is the secret to a well pump that still works for years after it is installed? Regular maintenance. Beyond just fixing and replacing broken pumps, West Winds Water Well can help you service your well pump to lower the chance that it breaks in the first place. Once a year, you should contact a technician service like West Winds Water Well so we can come take a look at your pump and help with routine service. But there are also a few things you can do yourself to keep your well pump… pumping well!
Check on your pump regularly: We recommend you set a schedule to inspect your well pump and look for any obvious problems.
Look for leaks and broken seals. There might be a leak if you notice water collecting around the pump and you’re not sure where it’s coming from. Take a moment to look at the seals on the pump (called O-rings and gaskets). Make sure they haven’t dried out and begun to crack.
Clean your pump’s cooling fan. It is common for pumps to have a fan that is used to keep the pump’s parts cool. Inspect the mesh around the fan to make sure the fan’s airflow isn’t obstructed with gunk or debris. If the fan is dirty, it is well worth the time to clean it.
Hold onto the owner’s manual: Here’s another important tip — when you first get a well pump, keep the owners’ manual. Depending on what well pump you own, the manufacturer may have included special maintenance instructions that could be helpful — both to you and to technicians like West Winds Water Well on a maintenance visit.
Lubricate the pump: You (or a technician) will also need to lubricate some moving parts on your well pump from time to time. Information specific to your well pump can be found in your pump’s owner’s manual. In general, the bearings in your pump should be able to move freely.
Get the right parts: Wells don’t just need well pumps -- they also need pressure tanks and check valves. These components are important parts of your well system. Running a well without them will shorten the lifespan of your pump. It’s also important that you get the right kind of pump in the first place — a pump that is too big or too small for your well will wear out early. If you’re not sure what parts to get, a technician service like West Winds Water Well can help point you in the right direction.
What else can affect how long your water well pump will last?
Even if you do take good care of your well pump, there are some other factors that can affect a pump’s lifespan.
The age of the pump: As noted earlier, pumps wear out over time. If you’re not sure how old your pump is, perhaps because you are moving onto a new property with an existing pump, it might be wise to contact West Winds Water Well to take a look at your pump, make sure it's in good repair, and give you a sense of how long it will last.
Sediment and debris: If your well pumps water with a high amount of sediment, it can wear your well pump out more quickly than if it pumped cleaner water.
The duty cycle: Your well’s duty cycle, or how often the pump is used, is a major factor in a pump’s lifespan. If you use your well all the time, you may need to replace your pump earlier than you would otherwise. Remember, a proper pressure tank is critical to keep the pump from wearing out, especially if you use it often.
What should I watch out for?
If there are sudden changes to your water pressure or water flow rate, something may be wrong with your water pump. Your well might also have other problems, so contact West Wind Water Well for help.
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