Determining the Optimal Depth for Installing a Submersible ...

How Deep Should a Submersible Pump Be in a Well?

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When it comes to deep well pumping systems, one of the most crucial decisions is determining the optimal depth at which to install a submersible pump. The placement of the pump can significantly impact its efficiency, longevity, and the quality of water it delivers. Understanding the hydrogeology of the well and the specific needs of the intended application is essential when making this decision.

Understanding Submersible Pumps

A submersible pump is designed to operate underwater, usually situated at the bottom of a well. Unlike surface pumps, which pull water up from above ground, submersible pumps push water to the surface. This unique design helps minimize issues like cavitation and maintains a consistent flow rate, making them suitable for deep-well applications.

Factors to Consider

1. Water Table Depth The depth of the water table is one of the most critical factors in deciding how deep to place the submersible pump. The pump should be installed below the dynamic water level&#;the level of water when the well is in use&#;to prevent it from running dry, which could cause overheating and premature failure.

2. Well Diameter and Configuration The diameter and construction of the well also play critical roles. In narrow wells, the pump may need to be placed higher to allow for space for the discharge piping. Additionally, the well&#;s configuration, including its depth and the geological formations encountered, can influence the placement of the pump.

3. Pump Specifications Different submersible pumps have varying operational depths and capacities. It is important to choose a pump designed for the specific depth and volume of water you need. Check the manufacturer&#;s guidelines for the recommended installation depth and ensure that the pump will operate efficiently at that depth.

4. Seasonal Variability The water table can fluctuate due to seasonal changes, rainfall, or long droughts. It is prudent to install the pump at a depth that accommodates these variations. Installing the pump too high could risk insufficient water access during dryer months.

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5. Water Quality Considerations In some cases, deeper waters might have higher concentrations of minerals or pollutants. If the goal is to access a specific aquifer known for its quality, it may be necessary to install the pump at a certain depth. Water testing should be conducted to ascertain quality levels at various depths.

Installation Guidelines

Typically, a general rule of thumb is to install submersible pumps at least ten feet below the static water level. This helps ensure that the pump maintains adequate water intake even during periods of heavy usage. However, local regulations and specific site conditions may necessitate adjustments to this guideline.

Conclusion

In summary, the installation depth of a submersible pump in a well is a multi-faceted decision involving hydrology, pump specifications, well characteristics, and environmental considerations. By understanding these factors and consulting with professionals, well owners can optimize their pump placement for efficiency and reliability. Proper installation not only prolongs the lifespan of the pump but also ensures a steady, quality water supply for all its intended uses. In doing so, you not only safeguard your investment but also contribute to responsible water resource management.

RPS recommends placing a submersible water pump at LEAST 10 feet off of the bottom of the well. Sediment and debris often settles at the very bottom of a well. If a submersible pump is placed too close to the sediment layer the pumps operation will kick up and agitate the dirt. Sediment adds extra wear and tear on interior pump components. And sediment also leads to murky or dirty water pumped to the top of the well, which just isn&#;t ideal for drinking water applications, and can plug up irrigation emitters. If possible, lift the well pump 20 feet off the bottom of the well to really stay away from interacting with sediment at the bottom.

Wells are &#;lined&#; with PVC down to a certain depth. There are screened portions that allow in flows of water into the casing. Professional well drillers typically recommend that customers place their pump just before the PVC lining ends, and close to one of the screened openings. So just make sure that you place the pump at least 10 feet off the bottom, and then optimize for placement with the knowledge of screens and PVC lining from there.

If your well is not very deep (under 100 feet), or your well is low producing (less than 3GPM), you may be tempted to place the water pump less than 10 feet off the bottom of the well. In some cases, that is just what has to happen! I&#;ve worked with some customers who had maybe a 10 foot water column, and they needed to place the pump off the very bottom of the well. The well was also slow to refill, so every inch counted. For shallow wells you must take into consideration the length of the submersible pump. The intake area for water is about halfway down the pump. Ideally, the entire pump is always submerged under water during operation. Circulating water is what cools the pumps motor, and prevents overheating. A pumps motor is located below the water intake area, so if the upper half of the pump were to be exposed during operation, it's not the end of the world. But you have to be careful that the water does not draw down past the intake area (also leading to air in the lines)! 

Some wells have access to super clean aquifers, with practically no sediment in-flow. We&#;ve seen a few people successfully place their well pump less than 10 feet off of the bottom in those cases, but you should be very confident this is the case!

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