1. What is Well Pump Flow Rate?

The well pump flow rate (measured in gallons per minute, GPM) indicates how much water your well pump can deliver. It's a crucial measurement for determining if your well can meet your household's water demands.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the drawdown method formula:

Where:

• Gallons Drawn Down — The amount of water removed from the pressure tank
• Time for Recovery — How long it takes for the pump to refill the tank (converted to minutes)

Explanation: This method measures actual flow rate by timing how long it takes your pump to recover after drawing down a known quantity of water.

3. Importance of Flow Rate Measurement

Details: Knowing your well's flow rate helps determine if it can meet peak demand, whether you need storage tanks, and if the pump is performing properly. Most homes need 5-10 GPM for adequate supply.

4. Using the Calculator

Steps:

1. Run water until pump turns on (note exact moment)
2. Measure how many gallons are drawn before pump turns off
3. Time how many seconds it takes for pump to turn off
4. Enter values in calculator

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What's a good flow rate for a residential well?
A: 5-10 GPM is generally adequate for most homes. Larger households or those with irrigation may need 10-20 GPM.

Q2: Why does my flow rate matter?
A: It determines how many water fixtures can run simultaneously without losing pressure. Low flow rates may require storage tanks.

Q3: How accurate is this method?
A: It's reasonably accurate for most purposes. For precise measurements, professional flow meters are recommended.

Q4: What if my flow rate seems too low?
A: Possible causes include pump problems, clogged pipes, or well production issues. Consult a well professional.

Q5: Does well depth affect flow rate?
A: Depth affects pump performance but not necessarily sustainable yield. The aquifer's characteristics determine maximum flow.