If your home features a well that provides water for drinking, cleaning, bathing, or irrigation, then you rely on the system's water pump. This component is the heart of the entire system. To help you understand its importance, below is an introduction to the subject.

A Guide to Residential Water Pumps

How Do They Work?

Water pumps come in two main types: jet or submersible. Jet pumps sit above ground and spin impellers to create a suction that draws water upward from the aquifer. These are effective for shallow wells up to depths of 150 feet.

Submersible models reside below the water line within the well and spin impellers to create pressure that forces water to the surface. These are more versatile and can handle wells with depths of 400 feet. They are also efficient and durable.

Why Are They Important?

Water pumps are convenient, as they provide water for cleaning, bathing, and cooking. The pump not only draws water from the ground, but it also maintains a consistent pressure—typically 40 to 60 pounds per square inch—in your system's holding, or pressure, tank.

This pressure sends a flow of water to your plumbing system whenever you open a faucet, flush a toilet, turn on a sprinkler, or take a shower. The pump then refills the tank as needed to keep water on hand and maintain the pressure necessary to provide reliable water service.

How Do You Maintain a Water Pump?

A water well pump should last 8 to 15 years, or even longer with proper maintenance. First, don't skimp on size or quality. If you anticipate a great deal of water use, such as with an irrigation system, buy a high-capacity, high-quality unit.

Next, have it inspected, cleaned, and tuned up annually. The tech will clean the innards, lubricate moving parts, check belt tension and condition, and repair any problems before they become serious. Lastly, don't wait to call for repairs if you notice sputtering faucets, strange noises, low or variable water pressure, or unusually high electric bills.

To have a well water pump installed or serviced, contact the experts at John D. Hughes Wells & Pumps in Enterprise, AL. They are family-owned and -operated and have served Coffee County since 1921. They specialize in residential water well drilling, installation, and maintenance, as well as water irrigation systems. Learn more about their services on their website or call (334) 347-9757 to schedule service.