Why Is My Submersible Well Pump Short Cycling?

Have you experienced your submersible well pump short cycling frequently? This issue is quite common and often points to a specific component in your well system: the air bladder in your pressure tank. In this article, we'll delve into the reasons why your submersible well pump may be experiencing short cycling and how to address this issue to ensure smoother operation.

Understanding Short Cycling

Short cycling, or short pumping, refers to a scenario where your submersible well pump operates at an unusually frequent rate. Typically, a well pump is designed to provide a steady flow of water, but when it cycles on and off rapidly, it can lead to inefficiencies and wear on the pump itself.

Water, in its liquid state, does not compress much at all. To allow a more compact method of storing water pressure within the tank, a pressure tank is used, and it contains an air bladder. This bladder acts much like a spring, compressing when the pump runs and maintaining the pressure until the pressure drops enough to trigger the pump to activate again.

The Role of the Air Bladder

The air bladder in the pressure tank plays a crucial role in ensuring that your pump operates efficiently. When the pump is running, it compresses the air bladder, which stores the excess water and maintains a steady pressure. As the pressure decreases, the bladder decompresses, triggering the pump to restart. This process helps to smooth out the water pressure and prevent frequent cycles of the pump.

Common Causes of Short Cycling

The most likely cause of your submersible well pump short cycling is a failed air bladder. When the bladder fails, it can no longer effectively maintain the pressure in the tank, leading to the pump cycling on and off much more frequently than it should.

Another factor to consider is the size of the pressure tank. Smaller tanks may not provide enough buffer to the pump, leading to more frequent cycling. A larger pressure tank with a bigger air bladder can help reduce the frequency of the pump's cycles, which is not only more efficient but also extends the pump's lifespan.

Checking the Air Charge in the Pressure Tank

To ensure that your pressure tank is functioning optimally, it's important to check the air charge. The air charge should be set to a value slightly lower than the pump's cut-in pressure when the pump is off and the system is unpressurized. Ideally, this value should be a couple of psi (pounds per square inch) below the pump's cut-in pressure.

Here's how you can check the air charge:

Conclusion

Submersible well pumps are an essential part of your water system, and keeping them in optimal condition is crucial for reliable water supply. If you suspect that your pump is short cycling, it's important to check the condition of your pressure tank's air bladder. In many cases, the solution as simple as ensuring the air charge is set correctly can significantly improve the performance and longevity of your submersible well pump.

Understanding the basic principles of your well system and performing regular maintenance can save you both time and money in the long run. For more information and expert advice, consider consulting a professional well system service provider.