Factors Affecting the Longevity of A Well Water Pump

Ruan Marinho • Feb 16, 2021

Depending on the type and quality, the average lifespan of a well water pump is 10 to 15 years. Generally, a well’s water pump expectancy depends on many factors as we shall see below:

Factors that Determine how Long a Water Pump Lasts:

2 vs. 3-wire:

A 3-wire motor needs a control box setup for the pump to run. This is not the case for a 2-wire motor, which has all the necessary starting elements inside the pump’s motor. The advantage of a 3-wire motor is that if the pump doesn’t start, you can begin your troubleshooting inside the control box. If the issue is in the box, you can replace it, and you’re back up. With a 2-wire motor, you have to pull it out of the ground to do a test run, repair, or replace an element. 


This seemingly subtle variation usually gives 3-wire motors about two more years of service life than their 2-wire counterparts.


Duty Cycle: 

It’s pretty self-explanatory that a pump that operates a few times in a day has a significantly longer life span compared to a similar pump under demanding and constant use. The main reason why homeowners install a larger water pressure tank is to enhance the water drawdown cycle, thereby reducing the need to turn the water pump on and off frequently. If your pump is continually cycling for over 50+ times a day, give it less than ten years.


Motor Quality: 

The motor quality affects how long your pump lasts. Other differentiating factors include lubrication requirements and the type and quality of the electric motor. 


In addition, expect a low-quality motor to last half the lifespan of a high-quality one. You get what you pay for. 


Sediment: 

Sand and other abrasives constitute a significant cause for wear and tear on the pump assembly itself (rather than the electric motor that powers the pump). Sediment and other impurities in water act as abrasives that wear the pump bearings and other active components. We’ve seen pumps lasting less than two years due to extreme sediment buildup, while others last up to 15+ years without sediment in the water.


System Installation:

System installation expertise or lack of it can mean all the difference in the life of your pump.


Installing the water pump system is more than hooking up a pump and wiring. It involves the proper placement of filters, check valves, etc. 


If you are looking for advice that will prolong the lifespan of your water pump system or seeking proper installation by the experts at Mosman Well Works, we got you. We have factory-trained professionals to help you make worthwhile choices for your water system. Call us today.

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