When choosing a choosing a submersible pump, it remains underneath the water in your
well, completely submerged.
A protective layer protects your pump from the
water, but age and general wear and tear may still damage it. Since you
physically can't see the pump, you must watch for signs of submersible jet pump
failure.
Introduction to
Submersible Pumps
Your submersible pump's purpose is to move the
water from the well to the surface.
First, the pump pulls the water into the
intake. In the intake, an impeller rotates the water and propels it through a
part known as the diffuser. After this process, the water heads for the
surface, where it eventually enters your home.
Because the pump has so many moving
components, these parts may wear out over time. Sediment that remains in your
pump may also cause erosion. If you leave these issues unaddressed, they can
progress into more serious problems, possibly causing complete pump failure.
Therefore, you must look for certain issues that denote a problem.
Keep in mind that an average pump lasts
anywhere from 8 to 15 years.
Signs Your Pump Is
Failing
Changes in how water comes out of the faucets
are the most common signs of pump failure or problems with your pump.
Absence of Water From
the Faucet
One sign of submersible pump failure is a lack
of water from your faucet. If you notice water isn't flowing from your faucet,
check your circuit breaker. Check to see if the circuit for your pump is in the
off position. Turn it back on if it is.
If you still don't have water after checking
the breaker, the problem could lie with your storage tank's pressure switch or
the pump.
Increase of Electric
Bill
Monitor your electric bill carefully. Often,
when your appliances begin to fail, they work overtime to compensate.
Ultimately, you experience an increase in your electric bill as a result. If
your pump is failing, it may run more often to compensate, which will increase
your bills.
Aeration at the Faucet
When you turn on your faucet, take note of the
water flow and any noise. Sputtering is a sign of a failing pump, in some
instances. Aeration at the faucet can also mean a bad check valve.
Change in Water
Quality
Always monitor the quality of your water.
Sediment can enter your pump, and if the pump isn’t working optimally, the
sediment can get into your water and may cause it to appear muddy or cloudy.
Water Pressure
Decrease
Sometimes, the first sign of pump failure is
low water pressure. When this happens, you'll notice less water coming from
your faucets. Since other issues in your plumbing system may cause changes in
your water pressure, you should consult a professional before replacing the
entire pump.
Easy Fixes to Check
For
A pump failing, especially before anticipated,
is uncommon. Some of the above-listed issues may stem from other pump-related
issues, but not the pump itself.
For example, if your water table is too low,
the pump can't access the water. Refrain from using your water for a few hours
to give the water table time to refill. Then, check it again to see if you can
get enough water.
Also, not all signs of pump failure mean you
need to replace the entire pump. Sometimes, the problem is from a corroded,
replaceable component.
Because the submersible pump is underwater and
inaccessible to you, always hire a professional to check on it if you suspect pump
failure. Other problems can cause the same symptoms and issues as pump failure,
so a professional can inspect your entire plumbing system and make the right
repairs.
Contact Action Well and Pump
, serving various regions throughout NC, if you experience any
of the aforementioned signs of pump failure.
