Do you need a soft start for a well pump?

A submersible pump is the most important element of a water supply system, operating under challenging conditions. Its uninterrupted and long-lasting performance largely depends on the correct approach to start-up and operation. One of the key solutions to extend the service life and increase pump efficiency is the use of a soft starter (SS). The question of whether to install an SS arises for many water supply system owners. Let’s explore the advantages it offers and the cases where its use is particularly justified.

Advantages of a Soft Starter

Using a soft starter for submersible pumps provides a number of significant advantages that contribute to extending the equipment's lifespan and improving the overall system efficiency:
Protection of the motor and increased pump lifespan
A soft starter reduces mechanical and electrical loads that occur at the moment of start-up. When the pump is switched on abruptly, there is a sharp surge in load, which over time leads to wear and tear on the electric motor and other components. SS ensures a gradual power increase, reducing motor wear and extending its service life.

• Energy Savings

Soft start allows for optimized energy consumption by gradually accelerating the pump, which is especially important during frequent on/off cycles. This makes the system operate more efficiently and helps reduce electricity costs.

• Prevention of Water Hammer

Water hammer is a sudden change in pressure within the system that can damage pipelines and fittings. Using an SS helps avoid such pressure surges by gradually increasing the water flow rate, significantly reducing the risk of accidents and leaks.

• Reduced Load on the Power Grid

When pumps with conventional starters are switched on, a significant amount of electricity is consumed, creating high inrush currents that can overload the grid, especially in older or unstable power networks. A soft starter helps reduce these inrush currents, ensuring stable pump operation without voltage spikes.

When is a Soft Starter Necessary?

Let’s consider situations where installing a soft starter is not just desirable but essential:
Deep-well pumps operating under high pressure. Such pumps are subject to significant loads during start-up, which can lead to rapid wear.
Systems with frequent start/stop cycles. For example, if the pump is used to automatically maintain pressure or for irrigation, frequent starts create additional loads that a soft starter helps minimize.
Power grids with weak or unstable voltage. In private homes, summer cottages, and other areas with unstable power supply, a soft starter helps avoid voltage fluctuations and prolong the lifespan of the entire power system.

Is it Worth Investing in a Soft Starter?

Although installing a soft starter requires certain financial investments, it is a long-term investment in the reliability and safety of your pumping system. The benefits of an SS pay off through reduced operating costs, lower likelihood of breakdowns, and an extended pump lifespan.
Thus, it can be concluded that for most submersible pumps, using a soft starter is a reasonable and justified decision. It not only extends the lifespan of the equipment but also helps avoid costly repairs and downtime, while ensuring more efficient and economical energy use. By choosing an SS for your submersible pump, you ensure the stable and safe operation of your water supply system for many years.