Frequently Asked Questions
Viking Pump Service knows there are difficult decisions when trying to decide which system will best suit your needs. We believe it’s important to be informed with what we can offer you. Here we have provided answers to our most frequently asked questions to assist you. If you require any additional information, feel free to give us a call; we’re always happy to hear from our customers.
Q: Do I need a storage tank?
A: Water well storage systems are typically preferred, however not always necessary. The determining factors usually are:
- Your water needs/goals.
- How much water is the well producing (estimated by gallons per minute (GPM)). Its best to be a little on the conservative side when estimating the wells production since often times flow rates can vary based on the time of year with summer usually being the worst. Most drill logs will have an estimated GPM quoted "at the time of drilling". Listen to what that is saying. This estimated rate is just that…estimated.
Q: Should I put a bigger pump in with more horsepower to pump stronger and last longer?
A: Absolutely NOT! Pumps are not like tractors or work vehicles. You need to size your pumps as precisely as you can based on the application.
Some things to consider:
- How deep will I be pumping? (static water)
- What pressure? (total head in ft/psi)
- Where does my particular application fall into the engineered curves and efficiency range for this particular pump and model? The application and sizing is VERY important.
Bigger is not better and will shorten the life expectancy as well as wasting power and not to mention $$$! Make sure you are choosing the right pump. We can help.
Q: Above Ground Storage Tanks vs Buried Storage Tanks?
A: There are pros and cons to both. The most obvious is how much having an above ground tank will visually impact the site location. (Years ago 90% of our installs were above ground, now 90% are buried.) Another consideration is how warm the tank can get in the Summer and the water can remain warm even at night, not affording the customer a cool shower or bath. The up side is that they can be less expensive based on installation costs. Some areas burying a tank can get costly due to the terrain and backfill if required. Areas of solid rock would obviously require extensive digging procedures. There are other considerations based on the tank construction. (See Plastic vs Steel & Fiberglass section).
Q: Can I run the well or storage system off my generator during construction?
A: Absolutely, it is a common practice. Based on the size of the water equipment, the generator should typically be 5KW (5000 watts) or larger and run at 220 Volts A.C. This applies to residential applications. 3 and 5HP pumps should run on closer to 10KW generators. After pump installation we can install the corresponding connector plug to fit your generator and check for compatibility based on load, size etc.
There are also some do's and don'ts:
- Always use the breaker to turn the generator on and off, if provided. If not, unplug before shutting the generator off.
- Never let the generator run out of fuel.
- Always use disconnect procedure before starting and stopping the generator.
- Do not start generator with pump equipment plugged in or turned on.
- Warm up the generator, then apply power to the pump equipment.
- The generator should always be running on full speed when connected.
Misuse can damage your electrical components.
Q: Which type of storage tank is best? Steel, Plastic or Fiberglass?
A: Throughout the years we've installed a multitude of all types of constructed tanks and there are, as you would guess, pros and cons to the various types. By far, the most durable being the steel tanks. The galvanized steel tanks seem to have the least amount of issues. Based on the application and size required, a steel tank is usually recommended. In smaller buried applications under 1700 gallons, we have a decent product available which we have had good results with. We shy away from the larger plastic buried tanks since we've seen issues in design with them collapsing etc. We also shy away from above ground plastic tanks unless adequate shade is available. Arizona sun and plastic… say no more. As for the buried fiberglass tanks, we have only had minor issues with them, and although a bit on the fragile side, they can be a fair choice. Installation must be done exacting to prevent fracturing, rolling etc. Call us and we'd be glad to discuss what's best for you and your system.
