A submersible pump, properly installed in a clean well, will run
for a long period of time with a minimum of attention. However,
conditions are not always ideal and can change for the worse in the
course of time.
Submersible pump usually run unattended and automatic control
devices are used to stop and start the pumpset and to protect it from
abnormal conditions such as overloads, line faults, etc. It is important
that these automatic devices be adjusted properly and maintained in
good working condition. Failure of these devices can easily cause the
failure of a pump that is in excellent condition. Unfortunately these
protective devices may not protect the installation against all of the
hazards that may be encountered.
In order to assure that potential problems are identified and
corrected as soon as possible, a program for regular inspection and
testing of the unit should be established. The frequency of inspection
and testing will vary depending on the complexity of the controls,
the consequences of a failure, the cost of making the inspections
and tests, the age and condition of the unit, the results of previous
inspections and tests, and the operating philosophy of the owner/
operator.
On a periodic basis, the unit should be given a quick inspection, that
routine inspection should include the following checks.
• Check for any obviously abnormal conditions such as gross
leakage or gross damage.
• Check that the unit is not making excessive noise.
• Check the electric panel for alarms, blown fuses, etc.
• Check the electrical system for signs of overheating or other
abnormal conditions.
Any problems noted should be carefully investigated and corrected
immediately.
Note that a large portion of the probable causes are electrical and also
that a large portion of these electrical problems are due to above ground
equipment. Before going to the time and expense of pulling the unit from
well, be sure that all above ground problems have been corrected and
that a thorough diagnosis has been made indicating that the problem is
underground.
Sr: # Possible Cause Recommended Remedy
1. Zero or poor ow rate
1.1 Well water level too low
Wait until well water level is
restored, or if possible, lower the
pump further
1.2 Sucon screen clogged Pull out the pump and clean it
1.3 Delivery valve closed or blocked
Find and replace the defecve
valve
1.4 Pump silted up/jammed Pull out the pump and clean it
1.5 Wrong direcon of rotaon Carry out direcon as in 8.11
1.6
Pump capacity exceeds well
capacity
Replace pump with one of the
lower capacity
2. Poor pressure/not reaching designed head
2.1 Wrong direcon of rotaon Carry out direcon as in 8.11
2.2 Leak in system Locate leak and repair them
2.3 Worn pump Pull out the pump and overhaul it
3. Pump start and stop too frequently
3.1 Well water level too low
Wait until well water level is
restored, or if possible, lower the
pump further
3.2
Pump capacity exceeds well ca
-
pacity
Replace pump with one of the
lower capacity
3.3
Pressure switch or level control
improperly set
Reset or replace if found
damaged
4. Excessive current absorbed by the pumpset
4.1 Pump silted up/jammed Pull out the assembly and clean it
4.2 Wrong direcon of rotaon Carry out direcon as in 8.11
4.3 Mechanical fricon Pull out the pump and overhaul it
9. Maintenance
13
9.2 Roune Inspecon
9.1 Maintenance and Service 9.3 Troubleshoong