Well Pump Centre All About Well Pumps!
The convertible jet pump derives its name from the word “jet” or a nozzle and a pair of venturi. These in combination create a pressure that is required for pumping the water through the piping system. The principle applied in a convertible jet pump is similar to that in a jet engine.
Shallow, Deep and Convertible Jet Pump
The jet pump comes in three categories: the shallow, deep, and convertible jet pump. All these work in a similar manner but they differ in capability. The shallow well jet pump has the capability of pulling water from a maximum of 25 feet depth-to-water even though this might be less in areas that have a higher altitude. It can handle between 18 to 20 feet in mountainous areas. The deep well jet pump on the other hand pulls water within heights of 80 to 100 feet depth-to-water depending on pump model and horsepower.
The nozzle and venturi of the shallow well jet pump are built on the nose of the pump. As for the deep well jet up, the nozzle and venturi are built into a jet kit or ejector package that is submerged in the well. It has two pipes that work hand-in-hand. One pipe sucks the water whereas the other drives water down so as to circulate it within the venturi and nozzle. It is this water moving through the nozzle and venturi that creates the pressure required for pulling the water to the pump.
The convertible jet pump and a deep well jet pump in most cases are used interchangeably. They are the same and refer to well pumps that can be used as either shallow or deep well pump. The shallow jet has the ejector kit on the nose of the pump but for the deep well kit its ejector kit is located deep in the well.
The Many Uses of the Convertible Jet Pump
A convertible jet pump is capable of handling many applications. The highly versatile pumps can be used for pumping water from wells, a river, lake or a sprinkler system. The convertible jet pump does an excellent job for small sprinkler systems. However, one has to choose a jet pump that matches the sprinkler pump needs. The jet pump should pump the same amount of water as the sprinkler.
Those who have a reservoir tank can use a jet pump to draw the water. The tank can be compared to a well. If you have a reservoir that is buried such that the pump is in no higher than 25 inches then you should use a shallow well jet pump to draw the water. If you have a convertible jet pump then it should be converted to a shallow well jet pump. For a reservoir buried deeper than that you need a deep well jet pump. A tank that is located above ground requires a shallow well jet pump.
Another great application of the jet pump is its use as a water pressure booster. However, you need to consider the overall incoming pressure. If you are using thermoplastic jet pumps whose pressure cannot exceed 70 psi then they are not recommended as pressure boosters. Cast iron pumps cannot exceed 100 psi and may be used for boost applications. Nonetheless, you should not run a pump continually at its maximum. Where possible include a buffer. Since too much cycling causes serious problems, whenever a pump is used in booster applications include a pressure tank in the application.
The convertible jet pumps have different horsepower capabilities and this affects the type of application it can handle. A simple rule to keep in mind is that higher horsepower translates to more water or higher GPM flow rate. The different jet pump models have different capabilities. Those with lower horsepower, for instance, ½ HP pump will work best for smaller households or less demanding projects. The higher horsepower pump draws more water but it has its drawbacks as well. It consumes more power and that means a bigger bill. It also requires a larger pressure tank that can eliminate rapid cycling problems.
Frequent cycling shortens the life of a pump. During starting, an AC motor will draw higher current than when it is running. This high surge on starting results in heat buildup in the motor. Therefore, if not allowed to cool off completely it will shorten the life of the electric motor. To avoid this use a pressure tank that is large enough such that it runs for a minimum of a minute or two minutes every time the pump runs.
Convertible Jet Pump Best Use Practices
The convertible jet pumps are made using different kind of materials. The internal components are usually made of thermoplastic. The case that holds the pump together might be designed using iron or thermoplastic. Since iron is stronger that means those with iron casing are longer lasting and will work best in areas where the pump might get hit by debris or rocks.
In order to keep your pump in good working condition, always adhere to the manufacturer’s recommended use and practices. Never leave your pump out in the rain or sun. The pump engine might be weather-proof or deep-proof but it should not be left outside. You should also ensure the pump is put in a box that allows free air circulation.
If you need parts or accessories for your pump then check out the user manual. You can order them directly from the store where the convertible jet pump was procured.
A Final Word
Convertible jet pumps are the most versatile types of well pumps since it can be set as either shallow or deep well pump. That means you can enjoy the benefits of both worlds without digging deeper into your pocket. You can use the convertible jet pump to pump water from a reservoir, well, river, or lake. It also serves as a pressure booster in sprinkler systems. Nonetheless, you have to keep the pump in good shape by adhering to the recommended best use practices from the manufacturer.