Water Pressure Surge.

[bjossart]

We have an above ground 1 1/2 hp pump goes to a high flowing ditch. About 20ft of the suction line 2" is buried. Have 8 zones and all zones are affected. When the zones start have great pressure then after about 3 minutes pressure starts to surge, heads will almost shut down and then they gain pressure never triggering low pressure shut off. Have checked all connection and drains on the pump intake side all tight and sealed. Replaced foot valve and it is completely submerged in the water. Any help would be appreciated. Thanks

 

[Reach4]

What you describe could be consistent to the water level at a well falling.

Sending water to a ditch, or using sprinkler heads? Ahh... maybe you are sucking from a ditch. In that case, maybe you start sucking air?

 

[Sponsor]

 

[bjossart]

What you describe could be consistent to the water level at a well falling.

Sending water to a ditch, or using sprinkler heads? Ahh... maybe you are sucking from a ditch. In that case, maybe you start sucking air?

Yes that's what we thought but can not find the air leak if it exists. Stuck. Thanks

 

[WorthFlorida]

Is this pump used for domestic water or only irrigation? Seems to be a pressure tank? Did this just start happening?

We have an above ground 1 1/2 hp pump goes to a high flowing ditch. About 20ft of the suction line 2" is buried. ......Thanks

I'm a little ignorant here but what is your "high flowing ditch"? Are you draw water from a ditch only that is constantly filled with water. In Florida we call them canals. That is 10-20 feet wide and very deep.

 

[bjossart]

Is this pump used for domestic water or only irrigation? Seems to be a pressure tank? Did this just start happening?



I'm a little ignorant here but what is your "high flowing ditch"? Are you draw water from a ditch only that is constantly filled with water. In Florida we call them canals. That is 10-20 feet wide and very deep.

Yes it more of a canal 10ft wide 3 to 4 ft deep.

 

[WorthFlorida]

Is this a new set up? If not has it worked in the past? Anything changed recently like a new pump, etc?

If this pump is only for irrigation, a pressure tank and pressure switch set up is not needed. Should be using an irrigation pump. A pool pump will also work since there is a basket in front of the intake to take cafe of large debris. Both types of pumps only use a centrifugal impeller that can handle debris better but you don't want silt to plug up the filters on the sprinkler pop ups if you are using them. If you have a jet pump, debris may be getting lodged in the jet. Is the pick up in the ditch screened to prevent debris from getting in. When the problem occurs is the intake clear of debris? If you have a leak you'll lose prime while it is off.