Question on the operation of the pump

Is it possible to operate the pump if it pumps out water faster than it arrives?
Michael

Expert Answer

Hello, Michael.

It all depends on which pump is used in the water supply system. The operation of submersible pumps in this case is strictly prohibited, since the excitation coils of their electric motors or the solenoid windings are cooled by the cold water surrounding the unit. Of course, in “serious” deep-well pumps, thermal relays are installed that turn off the power when the electrical part is excessively heated, but is it worth the risk of a device?

Surface mount pumps have no such drawback, as their electric motors are air-cooled. Nevertheless, they cannot be exploited “dry” either. The fact is that water in such devices plays the role of a lubricating fluid of the stuffing box (fiber) of the main shaft. When working without water, the part will quickly fail, and the pump will leak.

In your case, you can recommend installing a float valve to turn on the pump. Due to this inexpensive device, it will be possible to avoid pump operation during a critical drop in water level and significantly extend its service life.