HELP! We have a shallow well pump at out cottage which has about 50 feet from the foot valve to the unit.(Submurged in lake) The water then has to be pumped up an additional 100 feet to our cottage. We have little to no pressure and the water practically drips from the faucets, it is that slow. My father insists that we don't need a deep well pump, but I disagree. Am I right? Would a deep well do the trick? If so, how can I convert our current pump to a deep well pump?
COMMUNITY FORUM
You need a larger pump. For every foot of head, it creats 1/2 pound of backpressure. At 150 feet thats around 75 psi the pump has to overcome to pump water into your house at 35 psi. You need a pump that will create 110 pounds. A shallow well pump is designed for around 50 psi. 25 psi for the depth and 25 psi for pressure. I would bet you need at least a 3/4 horse pump, but a 1 horse pump would probably be better. In addition, try to get a variable speed pump. This is a pump that will provide a constant water supply at a constant pressure. This way you get as much water pressure as you need no matter how many faucets you open.
Raymond VinZant Plumbing Prof.
Raymond VinZant Plumbing Prof.
