Submersible well pumps are vital for efficiently moving water from underground sources to households, farms, or industrial facilities. If your water pressure has dropped or you've noticed other irregularities, your well pump might be the culprit. Testing your submersible well pump is a cost-effective first step in diagnosing and addressing potential issues before deciding on repairs or replacements.

This blog will guide you through the process of testing your submersible well pump, what tools you’ll need, and how to interpret your results.

What Is a Submersible Well Pump and Why Test It?

A submersible well pump is a pump that operates under the surface to extract water from wells. It is designed to push water to the surface, making it ideal for deep wells. Over time, like any mechanical system, wear and tear may impact its performance.

Testing your submersible well pump ensures:

·Proper water flow and pressure.

·Detection of early problems like worn-out components or clogs.

·Avoiding unnecessary water service interruptions.

If you suspect your pump isn’t functioning optimally, here’s how to test it.

Tools You’ll Need

Before you start, gather the following tools:

·Multimeter (to test electrical circuits)

·Amp meter (optional but helpful for measuring the electrical load)

·Ohmmeter (to check the continuity of the wiring)

·Pressure gauge

·Screwdrivers and pliers

·Electrical gloves for safety

·Instruction manual for your specific pump model

Now let's move to the step-by-step process.

How to Test a Submersible Well Pump

1. Ensure Safety First

Before you do anything, turn off the power supply to the pump at the breaker box. Working with electrical equipment requires strict safety measures to prevent injury. Always wear insulated gloves and make sure you're working in a dry area.

2. Inspect for Surface-Level Issues

Start by checking for obvious or surface-level problems:

·Listen for noises: If your pump is running but making unusual noises, it could be struggling with blockages or mechanical failure.

·Check the pressure switch: A malfunctioning or clogged pressure switch can mimic pump failure. Use a pressure gauge to determine if the switch is operating within its intended pressure range.

·Examine visible wiring: Look for frayed wires, loose connections, or other signs of damage that could prevent the pump from operating effectively.

If everything appears fine, move forward with the electrical tests.

3. Test the Voltage

Use a multimeter to assess whether the pump is receiving adequate voltage:

·Switch your multimeter to the voltage setting.

·Open the control box of your pump and locate the terminals connected to the motor.

·Hold the multimeter probes to the positive and negative terminals to check the voltage reading.

 

Desired Outcome: The voltage reading should match the specifications in the pump’s manual. If the voltage is too high or too low, it may indicate an electrical issue, either from the power source or the control box.

4. Check the Continuity of the Wiring

To determine if the pump's wiring is intact, use an ohmmeter:

·Disconnect the wires from the control panel.

·Set the ohmmeter to the resistance setting and attach the probes to the wire terminals.

 

Desired Outcome: If the continuity is intact, the resistance reading should fall within the acceptable range stated in your user manual. A "0" reading or extremes like infinite resistance suggest wiring issues or a disconnected circuit.

5. Measure Current Draw with an Amp Meter

Measuring the current draw can help assess if the motor is overworking or running efficiently:

·While the pump is running, attach the amp meter around one of the motor's power supply wires.

 

Desired Outcome: Compare the amp reading with the specifications in the manual. A higher or lower amp draw than normal could point to problems like an overloaded pump or motor damage.

Never attempt this test without sufficient electrical knowledge or equipment designed for these tasks.

6. Assess Pump Performance with a Flow Test

Finally, test the water flow and pressure:

·Attach a pressure gauge to the nearest outlet or line connected to the pump.

·Turn on the pump and allow it to run for a few minutes to settle into its operating mode.

·Record the pressure reading from the gauge and compare it with the recommended range in your pump's manual.

Desired Outcome: If the pressure or flow rate is significantly below the suggested range, the pump could be suffering from blockage, worn-out components, or internal damage.

7. Inspect the Well (Optional)

Sometimes, the well itself, not the pump, can be the issue. Check for:

·Low water levels: Your pump may be struggling to operate if the water level in your well has dropped significantly.

·Well casing issues: Corrosion or blockages in the well casing can strain your pump.

If upstream testing points to potential well-related problems, consider consulting a professional to avoid further complications.

Interpreting Test Results

After completing these steps, you’ll most likely have identified whether your submersible well pump has an electrical, mechanical, or water-flow issue. Here's a quick recap for determining next steps:

·Electrical Issue: Check wiring, control panels, or replace any faulty components.

·Mechanical Issue: Servicing or replacing parts (e.g., impellers) may be necessary.

·Low Pressure/Flow: Look for clogs, worn-out seals, or consider replacing the pump if it’s at the end of its lifespan.

If none of these tests conclusively pinpoint the problem, your pump might require professional servicing or a total replacement.

Tips to Extend the Life of Your Submersible Well Pump

To avoid regular testing and to keep your pump in peak condition:

·Perform routine maintenance to check for wear and tear.

·Avoid running the pump dry as it causes significant damage.

·Minimize sediment buildup by installing a good filtration system.

·Keep the electrical system secure and free of moisture.

A properly maintained submersible well pump can reliably serve you for up to 15 years or more.

When to Call a Professional

While this guide equips you with the knowledge to perform basic troubleshooting, some problems require professional expertise. Call a plumber or well technician for:

·Advanced electrical repairs

·Persistent low water pressure issues

·Submersible pump installation or replacement

Professionals have the training and tools to address complex issues safely and effectively.

Final Thoughts on Testing Your Submersible Well Pump

Knowing how to test a submersible well pump empowers you to detect issues early and ensure consistent water flow. With the simple steps outlined above, you'll be able to troubleshoot most common pump problems yourself.

If you’re unsure about any step or result, however, don’t risk further damage. Always consult with an expert when in doubt.

Happy troubleshooting, and here’s to smooth-running water systems!

Submersible Well Pump

Submersible Pump

Well Pump