Why Your Submersible Well Pump Might Be Driving Up Your Electricity Bill
Homeowners relying on a submersible well pump may occasionally experience a dramatic spike in their electricity bill, sometimes amounting to several thousand dollars in a single month. In this blog, we’ll explore the primary causes of increased power consumption related to well pump operation, what you can do about it, and how to prevent it from happening in the first place.
Understanding Well Pump Energy Consumption
Generally, the higher you need to pump water in terms of pressure or elevation and the greater the volume required; the more electricity will be consumed. Even a properly selected and well-maintained pump uses significant energy. To ensure long-term energy efficiency, check out our blog on selecting the right well pump for your needs.
However, if your electricity bill suddenly spikes, something may be wrong. Let’s explore the possible culprits.
Minor Causes of Increased Power Usage
While well pumps consume a notable amount of electricity, they typically only run for short periods daily. If your pump is running excessively, it will cause your electricity bill to rise. Here are some common culprits:
Leaks: Leaking pipes or fixtures can lead to increased pump runtime, significantly impacting energy consumption. If you suspect a leak, refer to our blogs on leak detection and water usage monitoring.
Irrigation System Issues: Malfunctioning irrigation controllers, zones running too long, or faulty valves that don’t close properly can lead to excess water usage and higher power bills.
Major Causes of Excessive Energy Consumption
The most severe cases often involve well pumps that have worked reliably for years but suddenly contribute to skyrocketing power bills. These issues typically stem from aging equipment and are usually the first sign that maintenance or replacement is needed.
1. Clogged Pressure Switch or Transducer
A pressure switch or transducer may develop blockages from iron or mineral buildup, preventing it from properly sensing water pressure. This can cause wide swings in pressure and/or the pump to run continuously, even when adequate pressure has been reached. If your system has a pressure relief valve that’s opening frequently, this could be an indicator of a clogged pressure switch. A simple cleaning can often resolve this issue.
2. Leaks in the Drop Pipe
If your pump is installed on a galvanized steel pipe, corrosion can cause leaks that drain water back into the well. As a result, the pump runs longer to maintain pressure, or in severe cases, it may run continuously without reaching full pressure. If you notice a drop in water pressure, it may be time for an inspection. Replacing corroded pipes with non-corrosive materials can prevent this issue. Holes in the drop pipe
3. Failed Check Valves
Check valves prevent water from flowing backward into the well when the pump is off. A failing check valve can lead to frequent cycling of the pump as water drains back into the well. This continuous operation results in unnecessary energy usage and higher bills. Multiple check valves are often installed in deep wells, and failure in any of them can create this problem.
4. Worn-Out Pump
As pumps age, their efficiency declines due to wearing bearings, bushings, seals, and impellers. Mineral buildup or sand particles can also degrade performance. If your pump takes significantly longer to build pressure or runs continuously, it may be time for a replacement. A 1 HP pump running 24/7 can consume over 1000 kWh per month, potentially increasing your bill by thousands of dollars.
5.Throttling Valve Malfunctions
Some systems use automatic throttling valves to regulate water flow. When these valves fail, they can block water flow and cause the pump to run excessively. Instead of relying on throttling valves, we recommend installing a properly sized pump or a variable frequency drive (VFD) for better efficiency.
6. Failed Pressure Tank
A failing pressure tank in a well system can cause the pump to run continuously. Inside the tank, a bladder—typically made of durable butyl rubber—expands and contracts to separate the water from the pressurized air. If the bladder develops a tear, this separation is lost, resulting in a waterlogged tank. As a result, pressure drops, forcing the pump to cycle frequently as it tries to maintain consistent pressure.
Preventing Excess Energy Consumption
To avoid costly electricity bills and ensure efficient pump operation, follow these steps:
Monitor Water Pressure: If you notice pressure fluctuations, have your system inspected.
Regular Pump Checkups: If your system is over five years old, schedule routine inspections to catch potential issues early.
Test Pump Shutdown Time: Run water until the pump turns on, then shut the water off. If the pump takes more than a minute or two to shut off, there may be a leak or efficiency problem.
Set Utility Usage Alerts: Many power companies offer usage alerts to notify you of sudden energy spikes, helping you catch problems early.
Upgrade to Smart Pump Controllers: Advanced controllers, like the Franklin Water SubDrive Connect Plus, detect system faults and shut down the pump before excessive energy consumption occurs.
Final Thoughts
Unexpected power bill increases due to a failing well pump can be frustrating and costly. By staying vigilant with maintenance and investing in modern pump technology, you can prevent these issues and keep your energy bills manageable. If you suspect a problem, contact a reputable pump contractor for a thorough inspection and recommendations tailored to your system.