Pumping water from a well relies on a combination of electric pumps, pressure tanks, and control switches to deliver consistent water to a home.
Whether it’s a submersible or jet pump, the system works by detecting pressure changes and activating the pump to meet your household’s water needs.
Water is survival here.
When the well runs dry, or worse, the pump fails, it’s not just an inconvenience.
It’s a problem that brings your household to a halt.
Whether you’ve just moved into a property with a well or you’ve relied on one for years, understanding how your system works can save you time, money, and a major headache.
The Basics of Pumping Water From a Well
A well water system gives homes their own water supply.
These systems are common in Arizona, where public water isn’t always an option.
They pull groundwater up from an aquifer and push it into your house through a pump and pipe system.
There are two main pump types used for residential wells: jet pumps and submersible pumps.
Jet pumps sit above ground and pull water from shallower wells, usually less than 25 feet deep.
Submersible pumps, which are installed below the water line inside the well, push water to the surface.
These are more common in deeper wells.
Groundwater comes from aquifers, which are natural underground layers of rock and soil that hold water.
In Arizona, these aquifers are often deep and require strong, reliable pumps to access.
That’s where well pump installation makes a big difference in system performance and lifespan.
How Does a Well Water System Work?
Well systems respond to pressure changes inside a tank.
When someone uses water in the house, pressure drops.
That drop triggers a switch that tells the pump to turn on.
In that case, the pump pushes more water from the well into the tank, where it stays pressurized and ready for use.
Key Steps in Operation
Each part of the system works together to deliver a consistent flow.
Here’s how it functions in order:
- Water is used inside the house, which causes pressure in the tank to drop
- The pressure switch activates the pump when it senses that drop
- The pump fills the pressure tank with water from the well
- Pressurized water flows from the tank to the home’s plumbing fixtures
Key Components
Some systems look complex at first, but they usually include just a few key parts.
Most of these parts are designed to last for years, though they do wear down over time.
- Pump: Moves water from the aquifer into the system
- Pressure Tank: Stores water under pressure so the pump doesn’t run constantly
- Pressure Switch: Turns the pump on and off automatically
- Check Valve: Keeps water from flowing backward into the well
Having stable water pressure in wells depends on all of these parts working together.
If one fails, pressure may drop, or the pump might run too often.
A well-maintained system will usually deliver steady, quiet operation without much trouble.
How to Pump Water From a Deep Well Without Electricity
Homes in rural areas often think ahead about backup water options.
When the power goes out, even the best electric pumps stop working.
That’s why manual deep well hand pumps exist.
These are long, durable pumps that work with physical effort, not power.
Here are some ways people pump water manually from deeper wells:
- Deep well hand pumps can reach up to 300 feet
- Jack-style pumps use a piston system to lift water
- Some homes install manual pumps beside their electric systems
In most cases, a long pipe runs from the surface down to the water level.
The handle moves a piston or rod that forces water up with each stroke.
A check valve at the bottom prevents the water from falling back down.
Manual pumps are common in off-grid homes and ranches.
For others, they serve as a backup during extended power outages.
You might not need one often, but when you do, it’s very useful.
Maintenance, Monitoring, and Efficiency Tips
Every system benefits from regular checks.
Maintaining well pumps helps avoid problems that can interrupt your water supply or cause bigger repairs later.
Remote monitoring can alert you before small problems turn serious.
For example, systems from Pump It Up, Pump Service, Inc., let homeowners monitor flow rates, pressure readings, and tank levels in real time from their phones.
That kind of insight is a bit like having a technician keeping watch 24/7.
Some benefits of adding monitoring features include:
- Immediate alerts for drops in water flow
- Real-time tracking of tank and pump performance
- Fewer surprise breakdowns or late-night emergencies
Frequently Asked Questions
How Long Does a Well Pump Last?
Most pumps last between 8 and 15 years.
This can vary depending on water usage and how well the system is maintained.
Why Is My Water Pressure Low?
Low pressure can come from several sources.
Pump failure, clogged pipes or filters, and drops in the water table are the most common.
A pressure tank problem might also be the cause.
Can I Install a Deeper Pump if My Water Table Drops?
Yes. If the water level drops, a deeper pump or longer drop pipe may be needed.
A professional can measure the depth and recommend the right system.
What’s the Difference Between a Shallow and Deep Well System?
Shallow wells (under 25 feet) usually use jet pumps.
Deeper wells often require submersible pump operation or manual pumps that can reach 100 to 300 feet.
Do I Need a Filtration System for Well Water?
Sometimes, yes. Water should be tested to check for minerals, bacteria, or sediment.
Depending on the results, a filter, softener, or UV treatment may be added.
Trust Arizona’s Experts for Pump System Service
Pumping water from a well relies on the right system design, dependable equipment, and regular maintenance to keep clean water flowing with consistent pressure.
Whether it’s electric or manual, every part of your setup plays a role in long-term performance.
At Pump It Up, Pump Service, Inc., we bring over two decades of experience in residential well water systems across Arizona.
From expert well pump installation to 24/7 remote monitoring, we tailor solutions that keep your water supply dependable.
No matter the issue, low pressure, pump failure, or new install, our team has you covered.
Contact us today to schedule your service.
Reliable Shallow Well Pump Installation in New River
Trust Pump It Up Pump Services, Inc. for professional shallow well pump installation services in New River. Our experienced specialists deliver efficient, dependable installations designed to provide consistent water flow and long-lasting performance for your property.
Call 623-582-5069 or request service online today!