Jet Pump Losing Pressure: A Comprehensive Troubleshooting Guide

Jet pumps are a popular choice for water supply systems, particularly in areas with deep wells or low water tables. However, these pumps can sometimes experience a loss of pressure, which can be a frustrating and potentially costly issue. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the various reasons why a jet pump may lose pressure and provide you with a step-by-step approach to diagnose and address the problem.

Identifying the Causes of Jet Pump Pressure Loss

Jet pumps can lose pressure due to a variety of reasons, including:

1. Leaks in Piping or Valves: Leaks in the pump’s piping or valves can cause a significant loss of pressure. These leaks can occur due to wear and tear, improper installation, or damage to the system.

2. Gas in Water: The presence of gas in the water can disrupt the pump’s operation and lead to a loss of pressure. This can happen when the water source contains dissolved gases, such as methane or carbon dioxide.

3. Dropping Water Level: If the water level in the well drops below the end of the suction pipe, the pump will be unable to draw in enough water, resulting in a loss of pressure.

4. Intake Line or Well Draw Down: The depth of the water level in the well and the distance from the pump to the water level can also contribute to pressure loss. If the water level is too low or the distance is too great, the pump may not be able to generate sufficient pressure.

5. Pump Performance Curve: Every pump has a specific performance curve that outlines its operating parameters. If the pump is not operating within its designed parameters, it can lead to pressure loss.

6. Suction Pressure: Low suction pressure at the pump inlet can cause cavitation, which can result in a loss of pressure.

Diagnosing the Issue

To diagnose the cause of the jet pump’s pressure loss, you’ll need to gather and analyze several measurable and quantifiable data points:

1. Leaks in Piping or Valves:
2. Visually inspect the pump, piping, and valves for any signs of water leakage.

3. Measure the water level in the well before and after operating the pump to determine if there is a significant drop, which could indicate a leak.

4. Gas in Water:

5. Use a gas detection device to measure the amount of gas present in the water.

6. If gas is detected, consider installing a gas separator or venting the system to remove the gas.

7. Water Level:

8. Measure the water level in the well before and after operating the pump.

9. If the water level drops significantly, it could indicate that the pump is not able to keep up with the demand or that there is a leak in the system.

10. Intake Line or Well Draw Down:

11. Measure the depth of the water level in the well and compare it to the length of the suction pipe.
12. If the water level drops below the end of the suction pipe, it can cause the pump to lose pressure.

13. Measure the distance from the pump to the water level in the well. If it is too great, the pump may not be able to generate sufficient pressure.

14. Pump Performance Curve:

15. Obtain the pump’s performance curve from the manufacturer and compare it to the system’s operating conditions.

16. If the pump is not operating within its designed parameters, it can lead to pressure loss.

17. Suction Pressure:

18. Measure the suction pressure at the pump inlet.
19. If the suction pressure is too low, it can cause cavitation, which can lead to pressure loss.

By gathering and analyzing these data points, you’ll be able to identify the root cause of the jet pump’s pressure loss and take the appropriate steps to address the issue.

Addressing the Pressure Loss

Once you’ve identified the cause of the pressure loss, you can take the necessary steps to resolve the issue. Here are some potential solutions:

1. Leaks in Piping or Valves:
2. Repair or replace any leaking components in the piping or valves.

3. Ensure that all connections are properly sealed and tightened.

4. Gas in Water:

5. Install a gas separator to remove the dissolved gases from the water.

6. Vent the system to release any trapped gas.

7. Dropping Water Level:

8. Consider deepening the well or installing a larger-capacity pump to maintain the water level.

9. Implement water conservation measures to reduce the demand on the system.

10. Intake Line or Well Draw Down:

11. Extend the suction pipe to reach deeper into the well, ensuring that the end of the pipe remains submerged.

12. Adjust the pump’s position to reduce the distance between the pump and the water level.

13. Pump Performance Curve:

14. Ensure that the pump is properly sized for the system’s requirements.

15. Consider upgrading to a larger or more powerful pump if the current one is not meeting the system’s needs.

16. Suction Pressure:

17. Check for any obstructions or restrictions in the suction line that may be causing low suction pressure.
18. Ensure that the suction pipe is the correct size and that there are no kinks or bends that could impede the flow of water.

By addressing the root cause of the pressure loss, you can restore your jet pump’s performance and ensure a reliable water supply for your home or business.

Preventive Maintenance

To prevent future issues with jet pump pressure loss, it’s essential to implement a regular maintenance routine. Here are some key steps to consider:

1. Inspect the System Regularly: Visually inspect the pump, piping, and valves for any signs of wear, damage, or leaks. Address any issues promptly to prevent them from escalating.

2. Monitor Water Level and Pressure: Regularly measure the water level in the well and the pump’s pressure to identify any changes or trends that could indicate an underlying problem.

3. Clean and Maintain the Pump: Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for cleaning and maintaining the jet pump. This may include tasks such as cleaning the impeller, replacing worn seals, or lubricating moving parts.

4. Upgrade or Replace Aging Components: Over time, the pump and its associated components may wear out or become less efficient. Consider upgrading or replacing aging parts to maintain optimal performance.

5. Implement Water Conservation Measures: Reducing the demand on the water system can help prevent the water level from dropping below the suction pipe, which can lead to pressure loss.

By following these preventive maintenance practices, you can help ensure the long-term reliability and performance of your jet pump, minimizing the risk of pressure loss and other issues.

Conclusion

Jet pump pressure loss can be a frustrating and complex issue, but by understanding the potential causes and following a systematic troubleshooting approach, you can effectively diagnose and address the problem. Remember to always prioritize safety and consider seeking the assistance of a professional if you’re unsure about any aspect of the repair process.

References

1. Jet pump loses pressure intermittently – Love Plumbing & Remodel
2. Deep well jet pump loses pressure and turns on every 5 min.
3. Why Pump Pressure Lower Than Expected – Hydraulic Institute
4. Troubleshooting a Jet Pump: Losing Pressure – YouTube
5. Pump losing pressure : r/Irrigation – Reddit