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Variables in Choosing Water Well Pump Size

There are several vital components involved in any water well system, and one of the single most important is the pump that will be drawing water out and upward from its source to its eventual destination. If your well is in need of a new pump, or if you’re drilling a new well that requires a pump selection, one of the main variables you’ll be considering here is the size of pump necessary. 

At Mike Zimmerman Well Service LLC, we’re here to offer the very best water well services in Utah, from water well drilling to water pump service, well rehabilitation and numerous other solutions. Here are some basics on why choosing the proper size for a well pump is so important, how to consider your water needs when making this selection, and some of the other factors to keep in mind during this important decision – which, of course, our team of well professionals will always be available to assist you with.

water well pump running constantly

Why Proper Well Pump Size is Vital

Firstly, let’s discuss why the proper size for your well pump is so crucial. Simply put, if you choose a pump that’s too small for your needs, it will not be able to keep up with demand and may burn out quickly due to overworking. 

Conversely, choosing a pump that is too large will not only be unnecessarily expensive, but can also cause issues with water pressure and distribution. Additionally, a pump that is too large may not be able to properly maintain the pressure switch, leading to frequent cycling and potential damage. 

Additionally, choosing the proper size for your well pump will ensure optimal efficiency, saving you money on energy costs in the long run.

Considering Your Water Needs

One of the main factors to consider when selecting a well pump size is your household’s water needs. This includes not only daily usage, but also peak usage times such as laundry or showers. 

It’s important to estimate your needs accurately and consider any potential future changes – for example, if you plan on expanding your household or adding irrigation systems in the future. This is typically done by adding up the total number of water fixtures and appliances in the household, along with their respective flow rates. 

In other cases, you can use recent water bills or reports from previous pumps to determine average daily and peak usage.

Water Depth and Level

Another key variable in determining well pump size is the depth and level of your well. The deeper the well, the more powerful the pump will need to be to draw water up to ground level. Additionally, if your well has a low static water level or experiences fluctuations in water levels, this can impact your pump selection as well. 

It’s important to have a professional survey your well and assess these factors before making a decision on pump size.

Submersible or Above-Ground (Jet) Pump?

Within the world of well pumps, there are two major types: Submersible and above-ground (jet) pumps. Submersible pumps are placed directly inside the well casing and draw water up through a pipe, while above-ground pumps use suction to draw water from the well. 

Submersible pumps tend to be more efficient and longer-lasting, but may not be suitable for all well depths or levels. Jet pumps can handle higher water levels, but may require more maintenance and have a shorter lifespan. 

Our team can help you determine which type of pump is best for your specific well conditions.

Ensuring Care and Maintenance

No matter which size or type of well pump you choose, it’s crucial to ensure proper care and maintenance to keep it functioning at its best. Regular inspections from experienced professionals can catch any issues early on and prevent costly repairs down the line. 

Naturally, however, care and maintenance are made easier by selecting the proper size and type of pump in the first place. That’s where our team comes in, offering comprehensive well services to keep your pump running smoothly for years to come. 

As you can see, the size and type of well pump you choose is a critical decision for your water well system. At Mike Zimmerman Well Service LLC, we’re here to make that decision easier with our expertise and top-quality services. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help with all your water well needs around Utah!

Issues That Call For Professional Well Service

Certain repairs or other issues with components in or around our homes are best performed by trained professionals, and the realm of water wells is a great example. While there are certain minor well upkeep areas that well owners can certainly handle on their own even if they have no such training, there are also a number of cases where problems or concerns with your well should only be assessed and remedied by pros.

At Mike Zimmerman Well Service LLC, we’re here to help with a huge range of water well services for clients around Utah, including water well inspections, water well and pump repairs, and more. Here are some examples of water well issues that should always be handled by our team of trained professionals, plus why this is the case and some of the major risks of attempting these fixes without training.

issues professional well service

Consistently Discolored Water

If you’ve noticed consistent discoloration of your well water, particularly if this has lasted for an extended period of time, this is a red flag that something is wrong with your well. It could be a number of issues causing the discoloration – including bacteria or other harmful pollutants in the water supply – and only trained professionals can properly assess the situation and provide targeted remedies.

For instance, one potential issue here is a drop in the water table level, which can cause sediment or other debris to enter your well and discolor the water. Our pros will be able to determine if this is the case and take steps to seal off the well from nearby contaminants.

Sudden Pressure Decrease That Persists

In some cases, a temporary pressure drop from your system may be no major concern – it could signal a minor blockage somewhere that will clear up on its own. However, if this persists and continues to cause a significant drop in water pressure throughout the home or property, it could be due to a major issue – such as a burst well pipe or other damage.

And in these cases, attempting to fix the issue on your own is not only dangerous, but can actually cause more harm than good. This is especially true if you don’t have proper training and tools for well repair – our team at Mike Zimmerman Well Service LLC will be able to quickly diagnose the issue and provide targeted repairs that won’t disrupt your water supply or potentially cause further damage.

Odd Smells or Tastes

Water well owners should be familiar with the normal smell and taste of their water – so if you notice any sudden changes in these areas, it’s time to call our professionals for an assessment. Strange smells or tastes in your water can indicate a number of issues, including bacteria growth or harmful pollutants entering the water supply.

In addition to being able to properly diagnose the issue, our team will also be able to recommend and implement targeted solutions that will restore your water supply to its normal state and prevent any further issues in the future.

Clicking or Other Sounds

Another sign of potential well issues is any strange sounds coming from your well or pump system. These could range from clicking noises to grinding or rattling – and no matter what the sound is, it’s a clear indicator that something is wrong.

Attempting to fix these issues on your own can be incredibly dangerous, especially if you don’t have experience with wells and pumps. Our pros at Mike Zimmerman Well Service LLC will be able to safely assess and repair any issues with your well and pump system, ensuring that you have safe, clean water for your home or property.

Pump Short-Cycling

When we refer to pump short-cycling, we’re talking about when your well pump turns on and off frequently in a short period of time. This could be due to a number of issues, including a faulty pressure switch or an improper installation.

DIY attempts at fixing this problem can lead to further damage and potentially even result in the need for a completely new well pump. Don’t risk it – trust our trained professionals to diagnose and repair any issues with your well pump, ensuring it functions properly for years to come.

Any Continuous Signs of Contamination

Finally, any signs of contamination in your well water should be handled by trained professionals immediately. This could include a foul odor or taste, visible particles, or even illness after consuming the water.

Our team at Mike Zimmerman Well Service LLC has the necessary expertise and tools to properly test for contaminants and implement targeted solutions that will get your well back to providing safe, clean water for you and your family.

Contact us today to learn about this or any of our water well services for clients around Utah!

Key Risks of Water Well Contamination

There are a few words you never want to hear when it comes to your water well or any other regular source of water for your home or building, and one of the most common here is “contamination.” Contamination in well water can come about in a few different ways, and is a problem for multiple reasons – but also can be easily enough prevented with the right steps and attention to detail.

At Mike Zimmerman Well Service LLC, we’re here to assist clients around Utah with every element of water well drilling and installation, plus long-term maintenance, well inspections and more. Our team is experienced with ensuring contamination is never a risk for your well, whether we’re installing a new well on your property or assisting you with an existing well setup. Here are some of the health and environmental risks that come with contaminated well water, plus some simple ways that these risks can be avoided altogether.

risks water well contamination

Chemical Contamination

One of the more common contamination sources in well water is chemical contaminants, which exist around a number of different potential sources. These can include heavy metals or other dangerous substances that may be present in the soil and seep into groundwater, often through improper disposal practices – think about things like pesticides, fertilizers and even automotive fluids in this area.

In addition to environmental risks, chemical contamination can also lead to a variety of health issues. This may include anything from minor skin irritations and digestive problems to more significant risks like cancer or organ failure – making it all the more important to take careful steps in avoiding these contaminants in your well water.

Bacterial Contamination

Another potential source of contamination is bacteria, which can easily enter the well through various means if proper precautions aren’t taken. The most common dangerous bacteria area around feces, which can come from a few sources and enter soil or groundwater in multiple ways – but there are also other bacterial sources to consider here.

It’s important to note that while some types of bacteria may not be harmful to humans, others can cause serious illness or even death. This is why maintaining a safe well environment and preventing any contamination is so vital – and it’s an area we’re well-equipped to help you with at all times.

Nitrate Contamination

One contamination form that’s less well-known to the public, but still very much a risk in some areas, is nitrate contamination. This occurs when excess nitrates (often from fertilizers or other sources) enter groundwater and elevate its levels – and this can be risky for several reasons. High levels of nitrate in water can lead to severe illness, especially for infants who are particularly sensitive to the substance.

Other Fertilizers or Pesticides

Speaking of fertilizers and pesticides, these are also common sources of well water contamination. As we touched on earlier, improper disposal practices or even runoff from nearby agricultural areas can all contribute to these chemicals entering your well water supply.

To avoid this risk, it’s important to carefully follow instructions for disposing of these substances and to be aware of any nearby agriculture that may impact your well. Regular testing and maintenance of your well can also help catch any potential contamination early on, preventing serious health or environmental risks.

Industrial Activities

Another possible source of contamination is industrial activities, such as manufacturing or mining. These can introduce a variety of dangerous chemicals and substances into the environment, which may then leak into groundwater sources like your well.

If you live near an area with high levels of industrial activity, it’s important to take extra precautions to monitor and maintain your well water quality. This might include regular testing and inspections, as well as working with experienced professionals who can help mitigate any potential risks.

Preventing Well Contamination

While we’ve touched on tips in each of these individual risk areas already, here are some general ways of ensuring water well contamination is never an issue for you:

  • Proper professional installation: Working with experienced professionals for well drilling and installation, like our team at Mike Zimmerman Well Service LLC, ensures the well is built to the highest standards of quality and safety.
  • Regular maintenance: Regularly scheduled inspections and maintenance can catch any potential issues early on before they become a serious problem.
  • Careful disposal: As we’ve noted in several areas here, proper disposal methods are key for avoiding contamination. This includes being careful with fertilizers and other chemicals, as well as ensuring any nearby agricultural or industrial activities are not negatively impacting your well.
  • Regular testing: Especially if you live in an area with known risks for certain types of contamination, it’s important to regularly test your well water to ensure its safety.

By following these simple guidelines and working with trusted professionals, you can ensure your well water remains safe and uncontaminated for years to come. Contact us at Mike Zimmerman Well Service LLC today to learn more about our services or schedule an appointment for any well need around Utah!

Water Heater Considerations for Homes With Wells

There are a few key home components you may think about regularly if your home utilizes a water well for all its water supply needs, and one of these is your water heater. Well water can be different from public water sources in a few important ways, and ensuring that any water heater you utilize is able to accommodate for these differences is vital.

At Mike Zimmerman Well Service LLC, we’re here to offer quality well solutions for clients around Utah, from well drilling and installation to pump services, well inspections and more. Here are some of the top factors to consider when it comes to your water heater and its management of well water.

water heater considerations wells

Capacity

One key water heater factor that’s identical to any other water supply system is capacity. You need to make sure your heater is large enough to handle the water needs of all residents in the home, as well as occasional guests or any other unique situations that may arise. If you’re unsure of your exact needs here, our pros are happy to assist you.

Typically, the key factors that determine water heater size are the number of people in the home and how often they use hot water. If you’re a larger family or have guests over frequently, expect a higher capacity need.

Hard Water Considerations

One factor to keep in mind when it comes to well water is that it tends to be “harder” than other sources like municipal water. This means that it has a higher mineral content, which can have an impact on the efficiency and lifespan of your water heater.

For instance, you should be looking for a water heater that’s designed to resist corrosion. This is because minerals in the water are likely to corrode certain types of plumbing materials, so you want to make sure your heater is built with this in mind.

You also might think about installing a water softener as part of your well system. This will help remove certain minerals and other impurities from the water before it enters your heater, extending its lifespan significantly.

Energy Source Compatibility

Make sure your chosen water heater is compatible with the energy source available in your home. In many cases, well homes use propane or natural gas rather than electricity for their heating needs, so be sure you’re choosing a heater that can accommodate this.

Similarly, if you have a solar power system set up on your property and wish to use this energy for your water heater, make sure the unit you choose is designed to work with solar power.

Water Quality Testing

If you’re in the process of selecting a new water heater for your home that utilizes a water well, one strong recommendation from our team is conducting a comprehensive water quality test before making your choice. This will help you determine any potential issues with the well water that may affect your heater, and allow you to make an informed decision.

For example, a test may reveal high levels of iron or sulfur in the water, which could lead you to choose a heater with strong corrosion resistance properties. Our pros can help guide you through this process and ensure your new heater is properly equipped for your unique well water needs.

Maintenance

Be sure to keep up on regular maintenance for any water heater, particularly when it comes from a well system. Our pros can help with everything from flushing the tank to checking for leaks or other issues.

These are especially important because mineral buildup from well water can cause efficiency or lifespan issues over time. We’re here to help you avoid these issues entirely. So, don’t hesitate to contact us today for any of your well water needs and questions! Let us help you keep your home running efficiently and smoothly by ensuring your water heater is optimized for well water. Happy heating!

Warranty Considerations

Finally, be aware that some water heaters may not come with complete warranties if they are being used in a well water system. Some manufacturers may specify that their warranty is only valid if the heater is installed in a municipal water system. Make sure you read through the warranty information carefully before making your purchase and only purchase a model that’s fully covered for use with water wells.

At Mike Zimmerman Well Service LLC, we’re here to help with any and all water well-related needs for our clients around Utah. Contact us today to learn more about any of our services or for assistance with your water heater and other well system components. We’re dedicated to providing quality, efficient well solutions for all our clients!

Landscaping Approaches Around Your Water Well

There are a few areas of a given property that may be considered somewhat differently than usual if you have a water well located on the property, and the concept of landscaping in this area is a good example. While you typically won’t need to completely revamp your entire landscape to account for a water well, there are a few approaches you should be considering to ensure that both the well and your landscaping features are in great shape at all times. 

At Mike Zimmerman Well Service LLC, we’re here to offer comprehensive well services to clients around Utah, including water well drilling, well pump services and more. And while we are not landscaping professionals, we have extensive experience with water wells and the impact they can have on surrounding vegetation and other components of a landscape. Here are some simple tips on what to do and not to do with regard to landscaping around your well. 

water well pump types maintenance

Ensure Wellhead Visibility

When we talk about the wellhead, we’re referring to the top of the pump that is visible above ground. It’s important to ensure that this wellhead is both visible and accessible at all times, so it can be checked on regularly and serviced when needed. 

Generally speaking, there should be at least 12 inches of clearance between the wellhead and any surrounding vegetation or other landscaping features. This helps to provide access for service if needed, as well as a better view of the area around the wellhead so it can be monitored more effectively.

Drainage and Slope Around Wellhead

Another vital consideration for landscaping around your well is the slope of the land in and around it. The ground should be slightly higher near the wellhead to ensure proper drainage away from the well, as water that pools close by can put it at risk. 

It’s also important not to construct any type of retaining wall or other feature near your wellhead that could cause water accumulation and damage the well itself. If a retaining wall is needed, it should be constructed further away with proper sloping to direct any runoff away from your wellhead area.

Keep Plantings a Reasonable Distance Away

As you’re planning the landscaping around your well, be sure to keep any plantings a reasonable distance away. Trees and other vegetation can actually cause damage to wells, as their roots can grow large enough to interfere with pipes and even potentially disrupt the integrity of the well itself. 

As a general rule, you should try to keep all trees or other significant plantings at least four feet away from the wellhead. This will help to ensure that any roots won’t interfere with your well while still providing some visual landscaping and shade in the area. And if you have any plants or trees that you know have particularly long root systems, it’s a good idea to keep these even further away. 

Keep Fertilizers and Pesticides Far Away

One group of substances that you’ll want to keep far away from your well is fertilizers and pesticides. These chemicals can seep into the ground around the wellhead, potentially compromising both its integrity and the quality of the water it produces by introducing contaminants. 

If you do need to use any type of fertilizer or pesticide on your lawn, make sure that you keep these products at least 100 feet from your wellhead. This will help ensure that any runoff or seepage is far away from the well and doesn’t compromise its quality in any way. 

Use Caution When Working in the Wellhead Area

If you regularly make updates or improvements to your landscaping, be sure to use caution when working near the wellhead area. You should never excavate or otherwise disturb the ground within 25 feet of your wellhead without first consulting with a professional in the field, as this could cause unintended damage to the well itself. 

Confirm Local Restrictions or Requirements

Finally, it’s always a good idea to confirm any local restrictions related to working around your wellhead before making any changes. Each area can have different requirements, so make sure you understand what is expected and allowed in terms of well maintenance and landscaping in your region before doing anything more involved than regular mowing or basic pruning. 

By following these tips, you’ll be sure to maintain a landscape that looks great while also keeping your well in the best possible condition. If you have any questions or concerns about landscaping near your water well or any of our other well services for clients around Utah, don’t hesitate to contact Mike Zimmerman Well Service LLC today.

What Qualifies as a Water Well Emergency?

There are several areas where clients often wonder what qualifies as an emergency versus what can wait a few hours or days for attention, and water wells are a great example. While some minor issues in your well aren’t too severe and can be left for a small period until you’ve had time to arrange a repair appointment, others are significant emergencies that need to be attended to as soon as possible – how do you tell the difference? 

At Mike Zimmerman Well Service, we’re happy to offer a variety of well services for clients around Utah, including well and well pump repairs – and we’re well aware that emergencies sometimes happen in this industry. Here are some examples of water well issues that qualify as emergencies, and what needs to be done to address them.

qualifies water well emergency

Water Discoloration

If you’ve begun to notice major discoloration in your water, it could be a sign of serious issues. This can be caused by anything from rust and sediment to algae or bacteria, which can make your water unsafe for drinking or even just using around the house.

If you notice discoloration in your water, shut off the well immediately and contact an emergency service like Mike Zimmerman Well Service. We’ll be able to assess the issue and provide the necessary repairs or maintenance to restore your water quickly – and safely.

Sudden Pressure Loss

If you suddenly experience a major drop in pressure from your well, it could indicate a serious issue with the pipes leading up from the well. In some cases, this is caused by a leak or break in the pipe, which can lead to major water loss if it’s left unattended.

Shut off your well immediately and contact us for emergency repairs if you experience sudden pressure loss. We’ll be able to assess the issue and provide the necessary repairs to restore your water pressure quickly.

No Water At All

If none of your taps or faucets are providing water, the issue could be with either the well itself or the pump leading up from it. Either way, this is a serious emergency that needs to be attended to right away.

In some cases, issues with pump damage will be the primary culprit. In these situations, Mike Zimmerman Well Service will be able to provide quick emergency repairs or pump replacements.

However, the issue could also be with the well itself. If this is the case, emergency services will be provided to attempt to locate and repair any leaks in the pipes leading up from the well – but if we’re unable to find a leak, it may be a sign of more serious damage.

Extremely Low Water Levels

If you start to notice a drastic drop in your well water levels, it could indicate that the well is running dry – which is an emergency situation. In this case, you’ll need to shut off the well and contact us right away so we can begin to assess the issue.

Our team will be able to evaluate your current water levels and take necessary steps to restore them – whether this involves running a deeper well, repairing the current one, or even relocating it altogether.

Strange Odors

Another serious issue to be aware of is strange odors coming from your taps. This can often indicate a problem with bacteria or other contaminants in the water, which may require immediate filtration and purification services.

If you start to notice strange odors coming from your taps, shut off the well immediately and contact us for emergency services. We’ll be able to test your water for contaminants and take necessary steps to restore it quickly.

Weird Sounds

This last area is one that’s a bit more nuanced – there are certain sounds that don’t really qualify as an emergency, but still need to be addressed quickly. These include strange clicking or clunking noises from your pump, which can indicate that it’s beginning to fail and needs repair or replacement.

If you start to notice these kinds of sounds coming from your water well, shut off the well immediately and contact us for repairs. We’ll be able to assess the issue and provide necessary repairs or maintenance to restore your well quickly.

Ultimately, the best way to ensure that your water well is functioning optimally and safely is by staying vigilant and keeping an eye out for any changes in performance, discoloration, or strange noises. If you notice something suspicious, shut off the well immediately and contact us for emergency services. Our experienced team will be able to assess the issue and provide necessary repairs or maintenance to restore your water quickly – and safely.

At Mike Zimmerman Well Service LLC, we provide a full range of services for all your water well needs – from emergency repairs to general maintenance and beyond. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you keep your Utah water well running smoothly and safely.

Possible Causes of Water Well Pump Failure

There are a few components that play a major role in the operations of any water well, and the well pump is at or near the top of any such list. One of the most important parts of long-term water well maintenance is avoiding any kind of issue or failure with your pump, and there are a few things that may cause this.

At Mike Zimmerman Well Service LLC, we’re happy to provide comprehensive water well services for clients around Utah, including well pump service and repair for any need you may have. Here are some of the top possible causes of water well failure, plus how to steer clear of them at all times.

causes well pump failure

How Well Pumps Work

Before we dig into the causes of water well failure, let’s first take a look at how pumps work. Having an understanding of their operation and the components involved can help you spot problems before they become major issues.

A water pump is designed to move liquid from one place to another in order to create or maintain adequate pressure throughout a system. The force behind this movement comes from electric power, and there are generally two types of pumps that can be used in water wells: submersible pumps or surface-mounted jet pumps.

Submersible pumps are installed inside the well itself and they draw liquid up to the top through suction, while surface-mounted pumps sit outside the well and use pressure to force liquid upward. Both types may need to be serviced or repaired at some point, and that’s when you’ll need a qualified and experienced professional like Mike Zimmerman Well Service LLC.

However, there are also some possible causes of well pump failure that you can avoid – and we’ll go over those in our next few sections.

Low Water Levels

One of the most common causes of well pump failure is low water levels. If the water level in your well drops too low, it can actually cause an airlock, which will prevent your pump from functioning correctly. It’s important to monitor your water levels regularly and make sure that there’s always enough to keep the system running smoothly.

If you have a submersible pump, then you’ll need to have it checked by a professional at least once a year in order to make sure that there’s no buildup of sediment or other debris, as this can also cause problems with the pump.

Clogs and Debris

Another major issue that can cause your water well pump to fail is clogs and debris. Dirt, sand, and even small stones can all find way into the system, which can cause major issues with both submersible and surface-mounted pumps. It’s important to check your filters regularly in order to make sure that clogs don’t occur, and also to have a professional inspect the system at least once a year for any signs of debris buildup.

In some cases, you may also need to have your pump replaced if it’s become too damaged or worn out due to clogs and debris.

Tank Too Small

Some well systems also have well tanks, which are holding tanks that store water inside the home once it’s already been pumped. If your tank is too small for your home’s needs, however, the pump will have to run too often and for too long in order to keep up with the demand – which can cause issues like motor burnout. In this case, it’s important to make sure that you have a tank that is able to hold enough water for your home’s needs, or even two tanks if necessary.

Lightning Strike or Other Impact

While it’s less common than the we’ve already discussed, it’s still possible for a lightning strike or other impact to cause problems with your water well pump. In cases like these, you’ll need to call in a professional as soon as possible, especially if you don’t feel confident tackling the issue on your own.

At Mike Zimmerman Well Service LLC, we’re happy to provide comprehensive well pump service and repairs for any water well system around Utah. We can help you diagnose any issues that may have arisen, repair or replace damaged components, and even install a brand-new system if necessary. So don’t wait – contact us today to get the reliable, professional service you need for your water well!

Water Well Jet Pump Basics and Life Factors

There are several kinds of pumps that may be used for drawing water out of your well and putting it to various uses, and one common such option is known as a jet pump. This is a non-submersible pump type that uses suction and pressure to draw water for your various needs, and knowing how it works and what to expect from it is a must if you want to utilize this type of pump. 

At Mike Zimmerman Well Service LLC, we’re here to offer Utah’s best selection of water well pumps, drilling services and repair solutions. Here are some basics on how the jet pump works and the two variations used, plus the factors that play the largest role in their expected lifespan and how you can get the most out of them.

well jet pump life factors

Jet Pump Basics

As we alluded to above, a jet pump utilizes suction and pressure to draw water from the well. It has a venturi device, which is what creates the suction effect needed to draw water up the pipe when it’s running. This type of pump also uses a diffuser and impeller to help move the water through it and then up out of the well.

There are two kinds of jet well pumps:

  • Shallow well jet pumps: For wells 25 feet or lower, shallow well jet pumps are typically used. These are designed to work best with a suction lift of 25 feet or less, and anything more than that can be risky for these pump types.
  • Deep well jet pumps: For wells deeper than 25 feet and often up into the hundreds of feet, you’ll need to utilize a deep well jet pump instead. The same general principles apply, but deep pumps are meant to manage larger volumes of water over larger distances.

Naturally, deep well jet pumps will cost more and require more effort to install, but they’re well worth it if that is the only way you can get water out of your well.

Our next several sections will look at the key factors impacting the lifespan of a jet pump for your water well.

Pump Quality

Not all jet pumps are created equal, and you will want to be sure to find a reliable option that is made with high-quality parts. This can help ensure it can stand up to the demands of daily use and last for many years before needing repair or replacement.

As you’re looking at jet pumps, consider their power ratings, the seal materials used and whether they’re designed to handle submersible water conditions.

Maintenance

As with any other kind of mechanical device, a jet pump requires regular maintenance in order to ensure it can keep doing its job properly. This includes lubricating all moving parts regularly, checking the impellers to make sure they’re free of debris, and checking the pressure gauge for accuracy.

If you don’t stay on top of regular maintenance, then you could find that your jet pump fails more quickly than it should — or worse yet, causes problems if something goes wrong inside the well due to lack of attention.

Use Frequency

As you may have guessed, another key factor to consider when it comes to jet pumps is the amount of use they will receive. If your pump is being used all day, every day, then it may not have time to cool and rest between uses. This can lead to increased wear-and-tear on the pump and decrease its lifespan if it’s not handled properly.

On the other hand, if the pump is only being used occasionally, then you may find that it lasts longer than expected.

Surrounding Elements

Another factor you want to consider is the environment in which your jet pump will be used. If its exposed to harsh elements like strong winds, rain, or snow, then it may not last as long as if it were sheltered from such things.

Another example here is a particularly sandy water environment, where the sand could easily get inside and clog up the pump or cause other issues.

By understanding these key factors for jet pumps, you can make sure that your water well pump is ready to provide you with clean and safe water whenever you need it!

At Mike Zimmerman Well Service LLC, we specialize in the installation and repair of well pumps. Our team has years of experience dealing with these pumps, and our services are always performed to the highest standard. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you get reliable water out of your Utah well!

Stages of the Well Drilling and Installation Process

If you’re considering having a new water well installed on your property, one of the first things you may be wondering about is how the drilling and installation process will go. From precise timing needs to the various steps involved in this process, having a general idea of how well drilling and installation will be carried out is very helpful if you’re considering your options. 

At Mike Zimmerman Well Service LLC, we’re happy to offer the very best water well drilling and installation services for clients around Utah. We’ll walk you through exactly what to expect when you come to us for well drilling and installation, including the basic stages that this process tends to require. Here are the main phases of a well installation, plus what to be thinking about within each of them regarding things like timing and more.

stages well drilling installation

Pre-Installation

Before any kind of drilling or installation can take place, there are a few important steps to ensure that your well is viable and that the process can be completed as smoothly and safely as possible. These include:

  • Identifying ideal well spot: We’ll use our expertise to identify an ideal spot on your property for the water well installation, considering safety factors such as nearby structures and other environmental factors.
  • Permit acquisition: Depending on local ordinances and regulations, you may need to acquire a permit before any type of drilling or installation can begin. If so, we’ll help walk you through this process.
  • Soil analysis: Before drilling or installation can begin, we’ll have to complete a soil analysis and check for any contaminants that could interfere with the water quality of the well itself.

In most cases, how long it takes to complete pre-installation for a well will depend primarily on the permit process. Some permits may take a few days to process, while others could take weeks.

Drilling & Installation

Once pre-installation is complete, the actual drilling and installation of the well can begin. This typically involves:

  • Digging the hole: A hole will be dug on your property at the designated spot, generally around 4-6 inches in diameter.
  • Drilling the well: A drilling machine is then used to bore into the ground, creating a hole for the well. The depth at which this occurs will depend on a number of factors including soil type and water table levels.
  • Pouring base cement: Before the well itself can be installed, a concrete sealant is poured into the base of the hole to ensure that the well is secure and stable.
  • Installing casing: Once the cement has been poured and dried, metal piping known as casing can then be placed in the hole for the well itself. This is used to provide more stability and keep out contaminants from entering your water supply.
  • Installing final well equipment: After the casing is installed, the final components of the well – such as a pump and other equipment- can be added.

In most cases, drilling and installation of a private water well should take between one and two days. This can be impacted by factors such as bore depth and the overall complexity of the installation.

Post-Installation

Once installation is complete, there are still a few steps to go through before your new well is ready for use. These include:

  • Testing for safety & quality: We’ll run tests on your water to ensure that it’s safe and meets any quality standards set out by local agencies and other bodies. We also provide water treatment and other services to help ensure that your well is safe for use.
  • Final paperwork: We’ll also complete any final paperwork related to the installation, such as registration and permits.
  • Early use: We’ll also walk you through any steps you may need to take prior to using your well, such as letting the water sit for a certain amount of time before it’s used.

The post-installation process should take very little time – usually just a few hours after installation is complete. This will depend on exactly what type of testing and paperwork needs to be done in order to complete the installation.

Overall, private water well drilling and installation is a relatively straightforward process once all of the proper steps have been taken. With careful planning and attention to detail, you can have your new well up and running in just a few days with great results. If you need more information or assistance on any aspect of this or any of our water well services around Utah, our team at Mike Zimmerman Well Service is here to help. Feel free to contact us at any time for more information or assistance with your well project!

Common Spring Water Well Projects or Upgrades

Spring is considered a transitional season for many areas of a given property in a climate like Utah, and those who operate water wells for any purpose on their property often find these to be great examples of this theme. Spring is a period to assess any minor issues that may have cropped up during the long winter (this one has been especially crazy!), plus often one where well owners consider certain basic projects or upgrades to their wells. 

At Mike Zimmerman Well Service LLC, we’re here to help with all your water well needs around the state of Utah, from well drilling and installation to well pump services and much more. Let’s look at some common examples of spring water well projects or upgrades that you might consider for your well, plus how they should be carried out – either on your own or with help from our professionals wherever needed.

spring water well projects

Basic Spring Inspection

First and foremost, before you go ahead with any other project or upgrade for your well, it’s important to have a general spring inspection. This basic check should cover all components of the well – from checking the overall pump and system condition, to doing a pressure test if needed.

For those wells in more rural areas, it may also be useful to inspect piping and even do a basic water quality test to make sure the water is safe. This will help you get a clear picture of how your well has fared through winter – and what, if any, quick fixes may be needed before other projects are attempted.

During spring inspections, one particular area of focus should be on the well pump, as it’s likely this is going to require more attention than other areas – especially if you haven’t looked at it or had a professional inspect it in some time. This inspection should also include checking for any clogs that may have developed over winter – and, if needed, replacing the switch or other parts of the pump to get it back up and running.

Cleaning

Depending on the age of your well, a thorough cleaning may be another great spring project to consider. This is especially true for older wells that may have built up rust or sediment over time – both of which can then lead to clogged pumps and other issues.

Whether or not you can manage this task on your own will depend on the condition of the well – as older wells may require a certain level of professional expertise to get them back up and running. Once completed, however, this can go a long way towards restoring your well’s functionality and efficiency over time.

Running Basic Water Tests

Over the course of the winter, there may not have been many opportunities to check the quality of the water from your well. As such, running some basic tests like a bacteria test or other parameters may be a great project for spring.

It’s important to note that if any issue is discovered in these tests, further action will likely be needed – such as additional cleaning or filtration – but simply doing them can be a great way to stay ahead of any potential issues.

Adding or Upgrading Well Coverings

Another great project for spring is adding or upgrading any well coverings that you may have. This can be anything from a simple wooden board to a more elaborate metal cover – and both are important for keeping debris, animals, and other contaminants out of the well itself.

When selecting the best type of covering for your well, consider both aesthetics (as many covers now come in a variety of colors and designs) as well as materials – looking for something that can withstand the elements and protect your well over time.

Well Insulation

Down related lines, well insulation can also be an important spring project to consider. Insulation can help keep your well – and the pump in particular – warm during winter, while helping to protect against any potential freezing issues that may occur.

In addition, insulation can also help make sure your well is running efficiently all year round – reducing energy costs and making it easier to maintain your well over time.

Pump Upgrade

Finally, for those looking to make some more major upgrades to their well, a pump upgrade may be the best option. This can help ensure that your pump is running efficiently and effectively – meaning less energy usage and better overall performance over time.

When selecting the best type of pump for your well, consider both horsepower as well as features like pressure switches, regulators, and other parts that can help customize the pump to your specific needs.

Ultimately, spring is a great time to inspect and assess your well – as well as consider any minor or major projects that you may want to tackle. From replacing pumps to adding covers, there are plenty of options available – each of which can help ensure the long-term health and efficiency of your well.

At Mike Zimmerman Well Service LLC, we specialize in providing professional advice, repair, and installation for all types of wells across Utah. Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can help you get the best out of your well this spring!