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8. Troubleshooting
The majority of problems that develop with
submersible pumps are electrical, and most of
these problems can be corrected without pulling
the pump from the well. The following charts
cover most of the submersible service work. As
with any troubleshooting procedure, start with
the simplest solution first; always make all the
above-ground checks before pulling the pump
from the well.
Usually only two instruments are needed — a
combination voltmeter/ammeter, and an
ohmmeter. These are relatively inexpensive and
can be obtained from most water systems
suppliers.
8.1 Checking pump performance
The troubleshooting chart in section
8.2 Troubleshooting chart on p. 10 may require
that you test the pump’s performance against its
curve. To do so, perform these steps:
1. Install pressure gauge
2. Start pump
3. Gradually close the discharge valve
4. Read pressure at shut-off.
5. After taking reading, open valve to its
previous position.
6. To calculate pump performance, first convert
psi reading to feet.
(For water: psi x 2.31 = ____ ft.).
7. Add this to the total vertical distance from the
pressure gauge to the water level in the well
while the pump is running.
8. Refer to the specific pump curve for the
shut-off head for that pump model. If the
measured head is close to the curve, pump is
probably OK.
Warning
WHEN WORKING WITH
ELECTRICAL CIRCUITS, USE
CAUTION TO AVOID ELECTRICAL
SHOCK. It is recommended that
rubber gloves and boots be worn
and that care is taken to have metal
control boxes and motors
grounded to power supply ground
or steel drop pipe or casing
extending into the well.
Warning
Submersible motors are intended
for operation in a well. When not
operated in a well, failure to
connect motor frame to power
supply ground may result in a
serious electrical shock.
SPE_ US.book Page 7 Thursday, May 5, 2011 8:18 PM
