A shallow well pump system uses a submersible pump to draw water from a well that is relatively close to the surface, typically within 25 feet.
Components of a Shallow Well Pump System
A shallow well pump system typically consists of the following components:
- Well: This is the hole drilled into the ground that accesses the groundwater.
- Submersible Pump: This motor-driven pump sits at the bottom of the well, submerged in the water.
- Well Casing: A protective pipe that surrounds the well and prevents contamination.
- Discharge Pipe: This pipe carries the water from the pump to the house.
- Pressure Tank: This tank stores water and maintains pressure in the system.
- Pressure Switch: This device controls the pump's operation based on water pressure in the tank.
- Control Box: This box houses the electrical components that power the pump.
Operation of a Shallow Well Pump System
- Water Demand: When you turn on a faucet or appliance, water flows from the pressure tank.
- Pressure Drop: As water is used, the pressure in the tank drops.
- Pump Activation: The pressure switch senses the pressure drop and activates the submersible pump.
- Water Pumping: The pump draws water from the well and pushes it through the discharge pipe to the pressure tank.
- Tank Refill: The pressure tank fills with water until the desired pressure is reached.
- Pump Deactivation: The pressure switch turns off the pump, and the system waits for the next demand.
Advantages of Shallow Well Pump Systems
- Lower Installation Costs: Shallow wells are generally less expensive to drill than deep wells.
- Simpler System: The system is simpler than a deep well system, which requires a larger pump and additional components.
- Less Maintenance: Shallow well pumps are typically less prone to problems than deep well pumps.
Disadvantages of Shallow Well Pump Systems
- Limited Water Supply: Shallow wells may not have enough water to meet the needs of a large household.
- Susceptibility to Contamination: Shallow wells are more vulnerable to contamination from surface sources.
- Seasonal Fluctuations: Water levels in shallow wells can fluctuate depending on rainfall and other factors.
Example:
Imagine you live in a rural area and need a water source for your home. You decide to install a shallow well pump system. The well is drilled to a depth of 20 feet. The pump is placed at the bottom of the well and connected to the discharge pipe. When you turn on the faucet, the pressure switch activates the pump, drawing water from the well and filling the pressure tank. This process repeats each time you use water.
