Jet pumps are the most popular pumps for shallow bores. Jet pumps are mounted above the borehole, and they draw water through a suction mechanism. During operation, a jet pump should maintain optimal water pressure. Thus, the water you receive at the various access points should have a high flow rate. If you are suddenly receiving low-pressure water at the access points, something is wrong. Below are three potential causes of low water pressure in a jet pump.

Loss of prime

For a jet pump to suction bore water, it needs priming. Priming is the process whereby the impeller gets fully submerged in water. This process removes all the air from the pump and suction line, allowing atmospheric pressure to facilitate water flow into the pump. If the pump loses prime, air will get sucked into the pump. As a result, the pump won't be able to draw enough water, leading to low flow and pressure.

One major cause of loss of prime in jet pumps is valve and pipe leaks. If you have a leaking valve or pipe, the pump will lose water. Once the impeller is no longer submerged in water, it will suck air into the pump and obstruct the suction process. You must fix the leak and prime the pump to restore water pressure.

Blocked jet impeller

Jet pumps are installed above the ground, which means they collect dirt and debris. If small pieces of debris accumulate in the impeller, they can cause it to slow down. Once the impeller slows down, its ability to suction water reduces. Thus, you may notice a decrease in water pressure and flow.

You can unclog a blocked jet impeller using a bent coat hanger or a wire. Insert the coat hanger or wire into the opening leading to the impeller. This action will cause the impeller to stop. Swirl the wire inside the impeller to dislodge any debris stuck in the blades. Your impeller should start working correctly again. Regularly clean the impeller to prevent the pump from losing pressure.

Faulty pump motor

The jet pump motor is the component that converts electrical energy to mechanical energy. The mechanical energy allows the impeller to rotate and suction water from the well. Therefore, if the motor is faulty, it may fail to generate enough mechanical energy for this process. Besides low water pressure, the following are the common signs of a faulty motor:

• Grinding noises when the pump is on
• Warm or hot pump casing
• Tripping circuit breaker

If left unrepaired, a faulty motor will eventually fail, and you won't be able to pump water from your well.

Jet pumps require regular maintenance to work optimally. If your bore water has low pressure, or for more information about bore pumps, contact a professional for pump diagnosis and repairs.