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Well Water System Design Tips for Better Pump Performance

Proper well water system design starts with the right placement, sizing, and access to key components. Pressure tanks should be located as close to the point of water use as possible because tanks placed too far away can contribute to surging, cycling, and low pressure. Quickie Vault can be placed where needed, including near a house, at campsites, or on building sites. It can provide water during construction and continue supporting the water system after construction is complete.

Pressure Tank Access Matters

Pressure tanks and controls need to remain accessible for routine service. Air pressure in a tank should be checked at least once a year, since low air pressure in a tank can be damaging to pumps. Quickie Vault makes access easier by eliminating the need to remove a heavy concrete lid or hire a pump truck to lift the pump for basic service. With easier access, tasks such as checking tank air pressure, changing a switch, or replacing a pressure relief valve can be more practical.
Pressure tank size is an important part of pump performance. A general rule is to provide one gallon or more of stored water for each gallon per minute the pump produces. This helps the pump run for at least one minute, giving the motor windings time to cool after the heat created during the start cycle. For example, a pump producing 10 gallons per minute should have a tank that stores at least 10 gallons of water. This is a minimum guideline for many common submersible pump systems.

Pressure Tank Sizing

The most common type of pressure tank is a bladder tank. It uses a bladder similar to a rubber balloon, where water is pumped into the bladder and compressed air around it creates stored pressure. When the pump stops, the air pushes the water out. A bladder tank is approximately one-third water and two-thirds air when full. To store 10 gallons of water, the tank capacity should be about 30 gallons. For many 10-gallon-per-minute pumps, 60- to 80-gallon tanks are often used, and larger tanks are better for standard 4-inch pumps.

Bladder Tank Capacity

Pipe size and material are important when designing an efficient water system. Water volume, elevation gain, and distance to the point of use should all be considered when choosing pipe size. Pipe size calculations should be completed before installation. Your installer should be able to show the calculations and conclusions before work begins. Proper sizing can help reduce the required pump size and lower pumping costs over time.

Pipe Size and Material

Wire sizing for the pump is equally important. Wire size calculations should be completed as part of the system design, and using the next larger wire may be preferred when sizing is uncertain. Electricity moving through wire is similar to water moving through a pipe. Wire that is too small can restrict electrical flow, create heat, and reduce voltage. Low voltage at the pump can damage the pump motor windings, so installers should be able to show proper wire sizing through calculations or manufacturer charts.

Pump Wire Sizing