Lifespan is naturally a key factor when discussing any major component within a water well, and well pumps tend to be some of the most commonly-discussed here. How long does a well pump last, and which factors influence its ultimate lifespan?
At Mike Zimmerman Well Service, we’re here to provide the very best well pump repair, well pump maintenance and well pump replacement services to clients around Utah, plus various other water well drilling and well solutions. Here are some of the typical lifespan averages of well pumps, the factors that influence well pump lifespan, some signs that your pump might be due for repair or replacement, and tips on how to extend well pump lifespan.
General Well Pump Lifespan Averages
From a very broad standpoint, there is no single answer to the question “how long does a well pump last?” This is because lifespan varies significantly based on several individual factors, from the type of well pump you have and its specific design, to how often it’s used and even the environment around the well. In general terms, however, here are some average ranges for different types of well pumps:
- Submersible: Between 8 and 15 years
- Jet: Between 5 and 10 years
- Centrifugal: Between 3 and 7 years
Of course, these are only averages – some homeowners may find that their well pump lasts much longer than this range, while others may experience issues sooner. The factors we’ll go over in the rest of this blog will play a heavy role here, as well.
Key Factors Influencing Well Pump Lifespan
There are several specific factors that will play a role in how long your well pump lasts, including:
- Water quality: If the water pumped through your well is highly corrosive or contains high levels of sediment or minerals, this can significantly reduce lifespan.
- Pump type: As we noted above, different types of well pumps have different average lifespans.
- Power source: Well pumps powered by electricity tend to last longer than those with other power sources.
- Usage rates: The more often you use your well pump, the shorter its overall lifespan will be.
- Maintenance and repair: Regular maintenance and prompt repairs when needed are crucial for extending well pump lifespan.
Possible Signs of Well Pump Issues
Luckily, most well pumps will give you some signs that they may need repairs or replacement before completely breaking down. These include:
- Unusual noises: If your well pump is making strange sounds, it could be a sign of internal damage. For instance, a high-pitched screech could indicate that the bearings are worn out.
- Low water pressure: If your well pump is struggling to produce adequate water pressure, this could be due to several issues – including problems with the pump itself.
- Short cycling: When the well pump turns on and off frequently, this can put unnecessary strain on its components and lead to premature failure.
- Dirty water: If you’re suddenly getting cloudy or muddy water from your faucets, this could be a sign of sediment buildup or other issues with the well pump.
- Major cost increases: If your electricity bill is suddenly much higher than usual, this could point to a problem with the well pump motor.
Tips for Extending Well Pump Lifespan
Some simple steps you can take to extend the life of your well pump include:
- Regular maintenance: At least once a year and preferably more often, have a professional inspect and service your well pump. This will help catch any small issues before they escalate into major problems.
- Address repairs promptly: If you do notice any signs that your well pump may be failing, don’t wait – call in an expert as soon as possible. The longer you put off repairs, the more likely it is that additional components will become damaged and need replacement as well.
- Only use clean water: If you have a choice, try to only pump clean water through your well. This will help reduce the buildup of sediment and minerals that can shorten lifespan.
- Don’t overuse: Try to minimize unnecessary or excessive use of your well pump. This will not only save you money on electricity bills, but it will also help reduce wear and tear on the components.
There is no one-size-fits-all answer when it comes to how long a well pump will last – but with proper maintenance and care, most pumps should last at least several years. Keep an eye out for potential signs of issues, address repairs promptly, and follow these tips to ensure your well pump has the longest possible lifespan.
And if you do need any help with your well pump, don’t hesitate to contact Mike Zimmerman Well Service for expert assistance! We’re here to help with these and all other water well service needs around Utah.
