Shallow Well Pumps

Before you attempt to learn any well pump terms it's important to start with a clear understanding of what a well pump is. The simplest definition of a well pump is a system designed to remove water from a well. However, the well pump's job isn't that simple. A well pump is part of a larger water system. Once the well pump has removed the water from the well it also must transfer it to the appropriate pipes.

The word "shallow" does not refer to the depth of the well, but refers to the pumping level of the water that the pump is working with. Thus, a shallow well pump is normally used for wells that are less than 100 feet deep, and usually 25 to 50 feet. They operate on an electric motor, installation could be a challenge if you are not familiar with the whole installtion process.

It is important for you to get the basic understanding and common terms of shallow well pumps and well pump parts before you commit any buying decision. 

Well seal: Designed to protect the well pump from dirt, rodents, and insects, this cap or plug covers the portion of the well pump casing that is exposed.  

Torque stop: Also known as a torque preventer or torque arrester, this device offsets the torque created by the motor in an effort to prevent the well pump pipe from twisting. The torque stopper also stabilizes the pipe and wires in the well pump. 

Check valves: This one-way valve prevents well pump and motor failure by holding the water when the well pump stops. Check valves are an easy and inexpensive way to extend the life of a well pump. 

Pressure switch: This is simply the on and off switch for the well pump. When the water is below a certain pressure the system activates the well pump's pressure switch in order to refill the tank. It switches off when the well pump has pumped a certain amount of water or reaches a certain pressure. 

Pressure gauge: This devise indicates what pressure or amount of water will turn the well pump on and off. It also provides a reading of the current amount of pressure in the water system.  Pressure gauges can be used to determine if your well pump and water system are working correctly.