In a deep well jet pump, a portion of the water is sent back down into the well to increase the pressure and help push more water back up to the top. Each well is different based on the depth of the water and the horizontal distance to the well. So it is necessary to adjust the balance between the water that is discharged and the water that is sent back down the well to be recirculated. Note that not all jet pumps have both a discharge control valve and a pump control valve, but adjustments can be made with either or a combination of both.
Things You'll Need
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How to Set the Pressure Regulator Using a Pressure Gauge
Step 1: Install a Pressure Gauge
Install a pressure gauge between the well pump and the control valve if one is not already installed. The control valve may be as simple as an adjustable valve that allows you to reduce the flow leaving the pump, thus increasing the back pressure that goes down the well to pump more water.
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Step 2: Run the Pump
Run the pump until the water pressure has stabilized. Pressure may start out low until the water has had a chance to be pushed down the well and return with increased pressure.
Step 3: Adjust the Discharge Control Valve
Adjust the discharge control valve to provide 20-psi back pressure. Close down the discharge valve (clockwise) to increase the pressure or open the valve (counterclockwise) to decrease the back pressure.
How to Set the Pressure Regulator Using the Sound Method
Step 1: Turn On a Faucet Near the Pump
Open a faucet to let water run near the pump. This will create minimal back pressure on the discharge side of the pump. Ideally, the flow from this faucet should be visible from the pump so you can observe the flow rate.
Step 2: Open the Pump Control Valve
Open the pump control valve slowly. This is often a small screw located on the pump discharge before the discharge control valve.
Step 3: Listen for Noises From the Pump
Listen for the pump to start making noise. A rattling noise indicates cavitation (i.e., voids with no water). Continuing to open the pump control valve will cause the pump to lose its prime, and it must be primed again.
Step 4: Close the Pump Control Valve
Close the pump control valve (also known as a back-pressure adjusting screw) one turn or until the pump quiets down and runs smoothly again.
Step 5: Tighten the Locknut
Tighten the locknut to hold the pump control screw at the desired setting and prevent it from loosening from vibration.
Tip
A leaky foot valve or check valve can cause the pump to lose its prime or to run continuously. A continuously running pump can result in a massive electric bill. Submersible pumps are more efficient than jet pumps because they don't require sending a portion of the water back down the well. They can save electricity and headaches. If you are replacing a jet pump, consider doing so with a submersible pump.
Warning
Running a jet pump in cavitation mode for long periods can damage the pump.