Fraud Blocker Well Pump Maintenance: The Ultimate Guide to Water Well Upkeep in Lehigh Valley, PA - Kocher's Water Pumps & Tanks Inc.

Well Pump Maintenance: The Ultimate Guide to Water Well Upkeep in Lehigh Valley, PA

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Welcome to your comprehensive guide on well pump maintenance. If you’re a Lehigh Valley, PA, homeowner, you understand the importance of a well-maintained water well system. 

Whether you’re new to well ownership or you’ve been relying on a private well for years, this article aims to be your go-to resource for well service and maintenance. From understanding the intricacies of submersible pumps to mastering the art of well maintenance, we’ve got you covered. 

Let’s dive in and explore how you can keep your well system running smoothly and efficiently with our expert well pump repair services insights!

Understanding Types of Well Pump Maintenance

Before diving into routine checks and tips, it’s essential to understand the types of maintenance you might encounter:

  • Corrective (Reactive) Maintenance: This is undertaken when a failure has occurred. It’s an urgent situation that can be costly, both in terms of downtime and repair.
  • Preventative (Semi-Proactive) Maintenance: Scheduled inspections and repairs are carried out at specific intervals. This is the most common type of maintenance and is crucial for long-term well performance.
  • Monitoring (Proactive & Predictive) Maintenance: Advanced monitoring devices can predict pump failure months in advance with high accuracy. This is the future of well pump maintenance, as emphasized by specialized training programs like the one at Northampton Community College.

The Real Cost of Downtime: Why Regular Maintenance Matters

Did you know that the average cost of downtime for well pump failure can be as high as $16,000 per incident? Regular maintenance not only saves you money but also prevents the stress and inconvenience of unexpected failures.

The “6 to 1 Rule”: Balancing Proactive and Corrective Maintenance

According to industry experts, the ideal ratio of Proactive Maintenance to Corrective Maintenance is 6 to 1. 

The “6 to 1 Rule” Simplified: Striking the Right Balance in Maintenance

The “6 to 1 Rule” is a guideline that suggests you should aim for six proactive maintenance activities for every corrective action. But what does this mean in practice?

Why the Ratio Matters

The 6 to 1 ratio is based on industry best practices. It’s designed to help you find the sweet spot between over-maintaining, which can be costly, and under-maintaining, which can lead to expensive failures and downtime.

What Makes Up the Ratio

  • Proactive Maintenance: These are planned activities like routine inspections and water quality tests.
  • Corrective Maintenance: These are unplanned actions taken when something fails, such as a pump breakdowns.

How to Use the Ratio

Keep a log of all maintenance activities and categorize them as either proactive or corrective. If your ratio is above 6 to 1, you may be over-maintaining. If it’s below, you’re likely not doing enough proactive work, risking more frequent and costly failures.

By following the 6 to 1 Rule, you’re adopting a balanced approach to well pump maintenance that minimizes costs and maximizes efficiency.

Routine Maintenance: The Heartbeat of Your Well System

  • Regular Inspections. At least once a year, have a professional water well contractor inspect your well pump and well system. They’ll check for mechanical problems, corrosion, and water quality. The Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources provides a list of licensed professionals for this purpose, including Kocher’s Water Pumps & Tanks, Inc., which holds license #2016.
  • Water Testing. Your well water should be tested annually for coliform bacteria, total dissolved solids, and other potential contaminants. Regular testing ensures your household’s water remains safe.
  • Pressure Tank Checks. Keep an eye on the pressure tank and pressure switch. A failing bladder tank or a faulty pressure switch can lead to water-logged tanks and other issues.

Water Quality: More Than Just Taste and Smell

  • Iron Bacteria. Iron bacteria can clog your well and lead to long-term damage. A professional disinfection every three years can help protect your well.
  • Silt and Surge. Sudden changes in your water quality, like silt or a surge in flow rate, could indicate well or pump problems. Consult well experts for a thorough check.
  • New Well Considerations. If you’ve recently drilled a new well, it’s crucial to have a comprehensive water quality test. This will help you understand what kind of water system you’re working with and what maintenance it may require.
  • Water System Fluctuations. Changes in your water system, such as variations in water pressure or color, can be early signs of a problem that requires immediate attention.
  • Regular Water Well Maintenance. Consistent water well maintenance is critical to ensuring water remains safe and free from contaminants. This includes regular testing and adjustments to your water treatment system if you have one.

Tips on How to Maintain Optimal Water Pressure

  • Pressure Switch. Regularly inspect the pressure switch. A faulty switch can lead to low water pressure and pump failure.
  • Valve Checks. Ensure all valves in your well system are functioning correctly. A valve leak can significantly affect your water pressure.
  • Well Owners’ Responsibility. As a well owner, it’s your duty to monitor and maintain the water pressure in your private water supply. Ignoring this can lead to serious issues down the line.
  • Private Water System Maintenance. If you have a private water system, make sure to schedule regular check-ups. This will help you identify any issues that could affect your water pressure.
  • Well Water Pump Checks. Your well water pump is the heart of your water supply. Make sure it’s in optimal condition by scheduling regular maintenance checks.
  • Water Supply Monitoring. Keep an eye on your water supply levels. A sudden drop could indicate a problem that needs immediate attention, such as a leak or a malfunctioning pump.

When to Call for Pump Service: Recognizing the Warning Signs

  • Gurgling or Hissing Sounds. These could indicate bearing or impeller issues and require immediate pump service.
  • Cooling Fans and Pump Failure. Modern water pumps have cooling fans. If these fail, your pump is at risk of overheating and failing.

The Importance of a Well Log and Professional Inspections

  • Well Log: Maintain a well log to keep track of all maintenance activities, water level changes, and any mechanical issues.
  • Professional Inspections: Your well and pump system should be professionally inspected every three years, in line with federal regulations and standards as outlined by the U.S. Government Accountability Office.

Conclusion: Elevating Well Maintenance for Optimal Well Performance in Lehigh Valley, PA

Well pump maintenance is far more than a checkbox on your to-do list; it’s an ongoing commitment that every homeowner and well owner in Lehigh Valley, PA, should prioritize.

By diligently following the tips and guidelines laid out in this comprehensive guide and by scheduling regular maintenance with a licensed professional like Kocher’s Water Pumps & Tanks, Inc., you’re not just ensuring a functional well system. You’re investing in the long-term performance, reliability, and safety of your well. So, take the first step today and make well maintenance a cornerstone of your home management strategy.

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