Questions & answers about installing or troubleshooting 2-line jet pumps on water wells.

This article series describes the components of a two-line jet pump water system, what the components look like, and what they do.

Two Line Jet Pump water pump diagnostic FAQs set #2

In the photo above you see an older installation of a two line jet pump that draws water from the well.

[Click to enlarge any image]

These questions about installing, troubleshooting, repairing two line jet pumps were posted originally at WATER PUMP, TWO LINE JET - please be sure to review that article.

For help priming your jet pump see WATER PUMP PRIMING PROCEDURE

On 2018-10-29 by (mod) - can I install an Everbilt Jet Pump Horizontally?

Kirk,

A review of the Everbilt pump manual for your pump shows the pump mounted horizontally - not vertically.

See this EVERBILT PUMP INSTALLATION and OPERATION MANUAL [PDF]

and also the illustration I will show here.

On 2018-10-29 by kirk

i just bought a everbilt mod. dp550c pump it shows a vertical installation can i install it horizonally

On 2018-09-04 by Anonymous

thank you, your answer helped a lot

On 2018-09-03 by (mod) - Converting a 2-line Jet Pump system to a 1-line Jet Pump?

Rikk

Converting a 2-line Jet Pump system to a 1-line Jet Pump?

A 2-line jet pump uses two pipes, 1 smaller (down pipe) and 1 larger (up pipe) to pump water through a venturi in the jet assembly that is down in the well. Some 2-line jet pump systems, particularly for low yield wells, may add a tailpiece below the in-well jet assembly, going down as far as another 34 ft. Maximum pumping lift can be > 200 ft. depending on pump and other design details.

A one line jet pump uses a single suction pipe to draw water from the well. The jet that creates the suction in this case is up above ground, inside the pump itself. Maximum pumping lift is 15 ft.

When you are buying a whole new 1 line jet pump to replace a 2-line jet pump system, most likely you'll need to pull the well line to replace the 2-line tailpiece with a 1 line jet pump foot valve.

Alternatively some jet pumps can be converted between 1 line and 2 line, however the well piping, tailpiece, or foot valve have to be properly selected for 1-line vs. 2-line operation.

Watch out: also a single line jet pump can't lift more than about 25ft. (That's if you are at sea level. If you are at a high elevation the lift height drops to as little as 15-17 ft.)

If your 2 line pump was pumping from deeper than that, the new single-line jet pump won't work.

Also, usually the nozzle and venturi in the tailpiece for a 2-line jet pump is designed to work with a specific jet pump. Changing pumps, even to a new 2-line jet pump, if it's gpm flow rate is different than the old 2-line jet pump, might run into poor performance if there's a mis-match.

Finally, with a 1 line jet pump, depending on piping distances and slope down from the pump and in-well depth, you may need to install a second check valve (beyond the one that may be in the pump itself) as close to the water source as you can get it.

On 2018-09-03 by Rikk

Replacing a two line pump with a single line pump. Can the smaller line be plugged and only use the one line?

On 2018-07-24 by (mod) - Some 2-line jet pumps can be converted to 1-line jet pump use, but that will NOT work by simply plugging one of the openings

Anon

Yes and no. Some 2-line jet pumps can be converted to 1-line jet pump use, but that will NOT work by simply plugging one of the openings in the existing 2-line jet pump body.

The smaller line pumps water out, sending it down a pipe into the well bottom where that water squirts through a venturi device that picks up more water from the well, returning a larger volume of water back through the larger line into the pump body, through the pump impeller, and on into the water pressure tank and into the home.

If you just plugged either of those openings the pump won't work.

Instead you have to buy a conversion kit that bolts a different front-end onto the 2-line jet pump to convert it into a 1-line jet pump system. Those conversion kits are available from the manufacturer or a local plumbing supplier for SOME jet pump models but not all of them.

On 2018-07-24 by Anonymous

Yes have a one horse power with two lines.can iplug one of them up be cause my pump only has one. A friend give this one to me

I have a 220 and it a one horse power

On 2018-07-24 by Ronnie

Can you plug one of them up and just use one

On 2018-07-17 by (mod) - What is the wiring on the back of a voltage selector switch?

I don't know for sure without being able to see the switch on the diagram but I'm assuming that you're being shown how to hook up a pump for either 120 or 240 volt power.

On 2018-07-16 by R.Burke

What is the wiring on the back of a voltage selector switch?

On 2018-07-06 by (mod) - cracked pump has 2 water lines

Anon:

You are describing a 2-line jet pump - as is discussed above on this page.

A 2 line jet pump can pump water from great depth - well over 100 feet. It does so by sending a volume of water DOWN the smaller diameter line, then through a venturi device in the well, and back up the larger diameter line.

The venturi (picture squirting some water through a funnel shaped device) causes a larger volume of water to be picked up and sent back to the building, up through the larger diameter pipe.

A one-line jet pump (those you checked out) cannot pump water from depths over about 27 ft. In a jet pump the water moving device is an impeller right in the above ground pump - it has to "suck" water out of the well.

In a two-line jet pump, the important water moving device is the venturi in the well bottom that pushes water up to the building, using a smaller volume of water sent down to the venturi from an impeller in the 2-line jet pump.

On 2018-07-06 by Anonymous

My cracked pump has 2 water lines coming from the front of the pump (2 sizes) into the well. Most pumps I have checked out have only one line in the front going into the well. What is the purpose of 2 lines and can I just use a new pump with just one water line withhold major modifications ?

Ray
New Jersey

On 2018-06-25 by Anonymous

Forgot to say but thanks so much for the excellent and informative website. And thanks for the quick reply. I'll try it out.

On 2018-06-24 by (mod) -

Typically yes a 2 line jet pump 3/4 hp can lift 80 ft. or more.

On 2018-06-24 by Brandon

Hi Dan, I have an 83 foot well that has about one foot of sand on the bottom right now and about two feet of water above that. I've used a submersible solar pump with no problems running dry or lack of water but those things constantly have leak issues and I repair or replace them once every 2 months right on schedule.

Would a 3/4hp convertible jet pump with the 2-line installation and capable of lifting 80ft do the job with my well?

Water flow is not a concern as I would pump it into a non-pressurized water storage tank with a float switch. And would it pump better if not against any pressure from a pressure tank? If I find that low water volume is a problem, I could install a protection switch. Any thoughts? Thank you

On 2018-06-22 by (mod) - matching a replacement pump motor

Woof

Most likely for a very old pump you're better off just replacing the whole unit than trying to match the exact motor.

Still if determined, I would take the whole pump to an electric motor repair shop or supplier and they can see if they have a replacement that fits.

On 2018-06-21 by woof

Can anyone tell me what kind I need to buy to replace and old rapidayton champion(model 33CC,serial L55 coupled to an old century 1/3 hp electric motor ? It is a 2 line pump, but I'm not sure of the well depth. City slicker just bought a distressed cabin in northern wisconsin.
Thank you

On 2018-05-19 by (mod) - use a tow strap to pull the 2-line well piping?

I'm assuming you want to pull the well piping to inspect it possibly replace a foot valve, and that you intended to provide a sanitary cap at the well top as well as additional piping to your two-line jet pump, pressure tank, and building water piping.

A well driller would have a lift that can pull it pipe from the well or sometimes a do-it-yourselfer rigs a tripod and pulley system. Don't just pull the pipe directly with a rope or you'll probably break it.

On 2018-05-18 by cowboys2ndchance

Marilyn Cook, I am attempting to save the drilled well on the property I purchased. After removing 30+ tons of household trash getting a working well will be a plus. I am hopefully including a picture of what I currently have

. I am thinking if I wrap a tow strap around the pipes and then secure the strap between the pipes using a hose clamp above and below the strap. Then I plan on using my small tractor to pull up on the tow straps and hope to get some positive movement with the pipes. Right now I have tried to physically pulling on the pipes and they feel like they are stretching when I pull. There seems to be water as I can hear a sloshing. I do not have a camera to look down the well.

On 2018-05-15 12:03:57.197956 by (mod) -

Doug

When I have that problem I start by checking all of my connections. All we need is a loose clamp or pipe connection to interfere with pump's priming and lift ability.

On 2018-05-14 18:37:04.975316 by Doug

Put a new Dayton ejector & foot valve on old sears multi stage pump.It will not prime now. 90 ft. well.

On 2018-05-07 23:39:39.863131 by (mod) -

Before drilling a new well I'd try harder to get the old pump out, maybe sending down a camera to see just what's going on. There are cutting and retrieving methods for stuff stuck in a well - see WELL RETRIEVAL TOOLS in the INDEX to RELATED ARTICLES: ARTICLE INDEX to WATER SUPPLY, PUMPS TANKS WELLS - live link at the end of this article. .

On 2018-05-04 23:40:56.355214 by Marilyn Cook

I bought some property that has an old house on it and a drilled well which looks like it is set up for a two-line jet pump

. I'm trying to pull the water lines and the pump out and find it is stuck. A well driller told me there was a metal plate preventing the pump from coming out. He suggested I drill a new well for $8,000. Does anyone know what could cause the plumbing to get jammed up in the pipe and if it's something I can fix or do I have to figure out how to buy a new well?

On 2018-03-16 02:13:38.159324 by (mod) -

Sibaram

The type of pump depends on the depth from which it has to lift water - submersible, 2 line jet pump, or 1 line jet pump.

The very limited well capacity suggests you need to include a pump protection control and also a large onsite water storage tank.

On 2018-03-13 17:19:35.672931 by Sibaram Patro

I have a borewell which give water delivery only 20 minutes on 2hrs interwal suggest me what type of motor is suitable for this borewell?

On 2018-02-24 00:55:07.114241 by (mod) -

We have spm e sketches in the article above. If that's not what you need, please be a bit more specific and I'll resarch to find what you want.

On 2018-02-23 13:06:50.984132 by Jim

Is there a diagram for diagram for a 2 line pump

On 2018-02-18 02:02:15.284418 by (mod) -

Vic

Some jet pumps are convertible between 1 and 2 line operation, depending on the model. You'd bolt on a new front end impeller assembly.

On 2018-02-18 01:56:16.667020 by Victor Ortiz

I have a quick question
I have a regular shallow well jet pump can it be turn into a double drop pump it's new but I can't get water out

On 2018-02-07 00:26:27.014164 by (mod) -

It can be anywhere, e.g. a submersible pump could be hundreds of feet from the pressure tank. BUt the tank and the pressure control need to be together.

On 2018-02-07 00:01:40.838770 by Allen

How far should the pressure tank be from the pump ?

On 2018-01-30 09:44:54.554382 by Alesha

I was curious if my cause for concern was accurate, recently we had a non professional plumber replace foot falve on our 2 line jet pump, not with my approval, and it ended up worse then i had feared.

He ended up dropping the entire well piping (both lines) into the bottom of well knocking off a good bit of casing around top. We ended up having to fish it out in pieces, and in pieces i mean he replaced a bunch of piping in two lines that didnt make sense,

he claimed the foot valve was not damaged after hitting bottom of well and being toppled by piping, and apparently there was a few pieces left behind and gadgets used previously in attempt that also fell were all in bottom of well. I looked down with a set of lights and couldnt believe all that had been dropped and left. Where the casing was knocked off, there is a wierd black moss like growing.

I am worried about the condition of inside of well if all those pieces could cause a problem to well trying to suck water or pull water? I am worried about the condition of water purity, with all that sitting in the bottom of our well in water, from black stuff growing from missing casing?

On 2017-12-16 15:15:52.825843 by (mod) -

J Sai

I can only guess since I have not a shred of information about your installation.
Some motor vibration is normal.
But if the vibration is a change from how the motor has worked in the past, possible causes are

- loose motor mounts

- loose pipe mounts

- a damaged motor impeller or debris inside the impeller assembly

- failing motor bearings

The first two items you can determine by visual inspection. If those are not the cause of the vibration you're noticing then the problem is probably internal to the motor. You'd need to remove it and have it disassembled for inspection and testing by motor repair shop.

On 2017-12-16 09:52:34.294956 by j sai ganesh

pipe line vibrating in suguna 1hp jet motor pump , I want to know reason & solution

On 2017-12-15 06:21:48.619788 by (mod) -

Jessica

Usually the loss of prime in this case is a leak in the well piping or a bad foot valve. Your plumber will need to pull out the well piping and repair a leak or replace the valve.

On 2017-12-15 05:18:51.211301 by Jessica

Need help with my pump keeps losing prime what cam i do

On 2017-12-01 21:53:35.290017 by (mod) -

Jeff, give Cotey Chemical a call and let us know if their advice works for you

http://www.coteychemical.com/solutions/

On 2017-12-01 18:59:16.616343 by jef

if not iron out how about if I hook up a compressor to the incoming line and blow it backwards??

On 2017-12-01 12:55:43.640465 by Anonymous

How about iron out? Last time I pulled the injector the venturie had chunks of rust. I use iron out a few times a year in my softener.

On 2017-11-30 23:38:50.455216 by (mod) -

Jeff,

There are chemicals that are sometimes used to try to clean a driven point well, but I've not seen them applied to foot valves.

I would be extremely careful about pouring anything into a well or well piping before reviewing exactly what the product is and how it is intended to be used.

For example if some person made the mistake of pouring Acid into their well they might have a devil of a time getting it flushed out again and of course the risk is poisoning the people in the building when they drink the water.

On 2017-11-30 15:54:57.696148 by Jeff

Can you clean the venturie with chemicals so as to not have to pull the footvalve?

On 2017-11-04 21:27:03.456717 by (mod) -

Possibly, Jamie but I doubt it. Most convertible pumps require that you replace the front end

On 2017-11-04 19:17:26.054670 by Jamie

My old shallow well pump has one line to well my new pump is a double line convertible jet pump can I just put a plug in bottom threaded hole and use it that way

On 2017-09-22 22:17:54.127440 by bob

should read can't run 2 showers now, or fill my swimming pool...

On 2017-09-22 22:15:47.951263 by bob

is there such a thing as a 2 stage , 1/2 hp convertible jet pump. contractor replaced my HD Jacuzzi 5RM2-S pump with a 1/2 hp Franklin pump. Pressure won't build over 35, and even when pump is running, flow is significantly less than old pump. can run (2) showers now at same time

On 2017-08-25 16:42:20.668520 by (mod) -

Bud

Your local plumbing supplier will have a 2-line jet pump deep well double pipe assembly in cast iron or plastic, or an ejector assembly, like a FloTec, Wayne, Sta-Rite, or Myers or Dayton double pipe jet assembly (about $100. U.S.); you can also order the part online from suppliers like jet.com.

On 2017-08-24 18:13:23.130436 by Bud

Anyone Know where to get a 3" deep well double pipe jet assembly. My renter took mine out a broke a couple of the enteral pieces . The jet has been down 75' for many years and working good. I can't seem to find a new or used 3" double pipe jet assembly. Thanks for any help. Bud

On 2017-08-25 by (mod) - where to get a 3" deep well double pipe jet assembly

Bud

Your local plumbing supplier will have a 2-line jet pump deep well double pipe assembly in cast iron or plastic, or an ejector assembly, like a FloTec, Wayne, Sta-Rite, or Myers or Dayton double pipe jet assembly (about $100. U.S.); you can also order the part online from suppliers like jet.com.

On 2017-08-24 by Bud

Anyone Know where to get a 3" deep well double pipe jet assembly. My renter took mine out a broke a couple of the enteral pieces . The jet has been down 75' for many years and working good. I can't seem to find a new or used 3" double pipe jet assembly. Thanks for any help. Bud

On 2017-08-02 by (mod) - Before spending for a new pump, diagnose the cause of reduced water flow.

Rajesh

Before spending for a new pump - a step that could make matters worse - we need to diagnose the cause of your reduced water flow.
Problems could be pump wear - or damage - in which case replacing the pump makes sense.

But the problem could be a reduced flow rate of water INTO your well, or lower water quantity available. In that case a more powerful pump will simply run out of water sooner.

So first you need an inspection of the well: what's the current level of water in the well at rest - its static head.

Then we want a visual inspection and some simple tests (like current draw) of the pump and piping for obvious problems like leaks or a high current draw suggesting a bad pump or jammed impeller.

Search InspectApedia for WELL PUMP WON'T STOP RUNNING for good diagnostics or search for ELECTRIC MOTOR REPAIR to look just at the pump motor

If those steps find no issue we might need a flow test on the well - search InspectApedia for WELL FLOW TEST for details

I would not put on a more powerful pump unless you either know that the well flow rate can support the pump's delivery rate (for your pipe size and lift height) or unless you add pump protection devices like flow limiter or a pump protection switch.

On 2017-08-02 by Rajesh

Dear sir I have a problem with my 1 HP motor for 150 ft borewell, with the pipe length of 125 ft, but water force is reduced after 5 years what can be done, I have to go for 2 HP motor or is it possible tofix the old one,
rjshkmrs87@gmail.com

On 2017-07-14 by Samuel

My well is 200metres from my pivot which is 6" dimeter kindly advice how many inch pipe can use to take water to that pivot

What kind of piping can I do from a well to pivot which is 6" pipe and the drawdown pipe is 4"

On 2017-06-05 by (mod) - how are the larger and smaller diameter pipes used on a 2 line jet pump?

Rich:

The smaller diameter hose is the "send water down" line and the larger diameter hose (should be pipe, right?) brings water up from the well.

If either of these is collapsed the pump won't be able to bring water up - we're describing a two line jet pump that uses a foot valve and a venturi that picks up water at the piping bottom in the well.

On 2017-06-05 by Rich

Bottom hose on two line Wayne jet pump has collapsed, I believe it is the one that sends water down. Is this why I can't prime the pump?

On 2017-05-31 by (mod) - food ballpipe?

JV

Sorry, I don't know what a food ballpipe is. Perhaps you can describe it or use the CONTACT link to send us photos for comment.

On 2017-05-31 by J.venkateshwarlu

How conect 1 food ballpipe

I conect one foot ball pipe any prablom

I mean conect one food ball pipe what happend

On 2017-05-30 by (mod) - Should water lines exiting a two jet pump be 3/4" until it branches off to 1/2"

Work

"Should" is maybe a bit more forceful than I feel about this point, but maybe: it's a good idea: it is worth noting that the more 3/4" pipe you can include anywhere in the system the better water flow you'll receive downstream.

On 2017-05-30 1 by workingacct64

Should water lines exiting a two jet pump be 3/4" until it branches off to 1/2" to supply kitchens, bathrooms, etc?

On 2017-05-15 by (mod) - choosing an irrigation pump for use in Somalia

Ahmed

You will want to check the particular specifications of the pumps that are available in your area. Each pump will give a pumping rate in litres per minute in a table of data that shows how the pump's ability to deliver water is reduced depending on the lift height to which it has to raise water out of the well.

More detail is at WATER PUMP CAPACITIES TYPES RATES GPM https://inspectapedia.com/water/Well_Pump_Capacity.php

Do let me know if any of that is unclear and I'll be glad to work further with you on this.

On 2017-05-14 by Abdi ahmed

I am intresting this two line pump bu I am looking two line pump max head 130mitir max flow 880l/minit becouse I have deep well in somalia

And farm so know the well using smerciable bu it is not giving more water that I can use irigation
For my farm so please I need any advice about that proplem

On 2017-05-12 by (mod) - leaky input port on my old pump

I don't have a clear understanding of the requirements here, but from what you have said I would take a closer look at what you mean by delivering 40 PSI to a 1 inch pipe.

Clearly once you open a valve to lift water out of a 1 inch pipe the 40 PSI is not going to be maintained unless you have an incredible pump and water flow rate.

On 2017-05-08 by Bruce

I'm back. if you recall I had the leaky input port on my old pump. So I ordered a new pump a Goulds J10 Double Nose which seems to be identical to the one I have. I also ordered new AV22 Pressure Control Valve Kit. I'm not sure what PCV does, other than measure the pressure coming from the outlet port on top of the pump.

There is a slide adjustment which I have no clue how to adjust. I haven't received the pump yet, so just thought I'd try to prepare. Any help or pointers to instructions would be appreciated. I want to hook up an irrigation system and the irrigation guy said I need at least 40PSI delivered through a 1 inch pipe to the outside.

On 2017-05-06 by (mod) - signs of pump motor bearing failure or impeller damage

What you are describing sounds like a bearing failure. There are companies who can rebuild pumps and motors, or it may be possible to buy replacement front end that includes a new bearing around the pump motor shaft.

However most people would replace the pump.

On 2017-05-06 by Richard

I have a shallow well jet pump that leaks water around/near the shaft. Is this a complete failure or can it be repaired?

On 2017-05-05 by (mod) - if it ain't broke, don't fix it?

Thanks for clarifying, Bruce, your experience may serve as a warning to other readers.

On 2017-05-05 by Bruce

There is no problem with the well. We've owned the house since 2011 and all I had to do when I first started it was prime the pump and it started right up, shuts off when it reaches upper limit (50psi) and turns on at lower (30psi). Its only used for outside irrigation and its never run dry, so needless to say I was a bit suspicious.

All he said was that the system was old and the best thing to do was install a brand new one well and all. I just listened, basically said we couldn't afford that and thanked him for his time. Whatever happened to the old adage, if it ain't broke, don't fix it? :-) Thanks again!

On 2017-05-05 by (mod) - plumber says need new pump. For sure?

Bruce

Disturbing. Did the plumber say why you needed a new well? In fact **IF** your well has run dry or is nearly out of water, then indeed a pump could end up running dry and be ruined by that event. The solutions include

- install a pump protection device (search InspectApedia for that phrase)
and
- increase the well yield (search again for details)

before going to the expense of a new well

On 2017-05-05 by Bruce Goulds J10 double line

Thanks very much for the advise. I agree, the time it would to fix the pipe would be better spent on hooking up a brand new pump.

It appears that the goulds j10 double line is the compatible model. By the way, I did have a pump company come and tell me they don't service the system I have anymore. Guess what they wanted me to do? Put in a whole new well. Best regards.

On 2017-05-05 by (mod) - troubleshooting a Goulds JL10N Double Line Jet pump

Bruce,

There's no single "right" answer here as ... it depends. If it were my pump I'd turn off power, drain off water pressure, and try to take apart the bad connection;

if I could then clean up the pump connection point and re-pipe to it that'd be a winner (if my time and labor are free). I would figure that there's not much cost of trying to fix something that I was otherwise going to throw away, as long as I can convince myself that the repair will be durable and safe enough.

But if you would not enjoy the task, just buy a new pump. The new pump will also have to be a 2 line jet pump and its connections will be similar but may not match exactly - adjustments if needed are made in the piping connections.

On 2017-05-05 by Bruce

I have a Goulds JL10N Double Line Jet pump. It was installed in 1990. It still works, but it has a slow drip leak at the pressure port opening (bottom port)? The threaded pipe looks to be pretty corroded. Should I just replace the entire pump or try to remove the the corroded pipe. Concerned that I'll either strip the threads or break the pipe off. If I replace the entire pump is the Goulds J10 double nose pump compatible? Thanks in advance for the help.

On 2017-05-04 by (mod) - weak pump output, check voltage

Start by checking the voltage delivered, then the current draw of the motor - compare to factory spec. Of course other sources of pressure loss could be present: leaks in well piping, low water in the well, a foot valve clog, etc. Search InspectApedia using the box above to see our articles on DIAGNOSE LOST WATER PRESSURE for a complete list

On 2017-05-04 by Ali

New jet pump Double Stage - 1.5 HP is not delivering compare to old pump( 1HP - Suguna make Jet Pump Double Stage). What are the checks to be carried out.

On 2017-05-03 by (mod) -

I'm not sure what we're discussing, Tom. I think you meant that when you flush the toilet the well or water pump turns on, right? (that is, not some special pump for the toilet?

) In that case use the InspectApedia search box just above to find our article ADD AIR TO PRESSURE TANK as I suspect your water pressure tank is water-logged.

On 2017-05-03 by Tom T

Flush toilet pump goes on then pressure drops takes awhile for pump to regenerate?

On 2017-04-23 by (mod) - Explanation of the two lines on a 2-line jet pump used for water systems:

Raj

Explanation of the two lines on a 2-line jet pump used for water systems:

Small line sends water down into the well where it squirts through a venturi that acts as a water pick-up device.

The venturi draws water out of the well faster than the small line sends water down into it.

Large line sends the combined greater volume of water back up to the pump, through it and into the building's water system.

The smaller line is the down-jet; the larger line is the return line. Neither is a "suction" line.
Only one-line jet pumps use a section line.

On 2017-04-23 by rajasekharan

use of two suction lines in deep well pumps

On 2017-04-12 by (mod) -

I'd look for a leak at the foot valve connection or elsewhere in the piping system.

On 2017-04-09 by Alexandria

i just replaced foot valve on two line jet pump and and im having problems getting it to keep prime, do i maybe have a leak in one of hoses and would that be why it wont prime?

On 2017-04-12 by (mod) - A check valve at the pump might help

Anthony

A check valve at the pump might help but ultimately you'll need to replace the bad foot valve.

On 2017-04-09 by Anthony - bad fort valve on a two line pump

I have a bad fort valve on a two line pump. It would be very expensive to get at the foot valve. Can I use a check valve at the pump instead of replacing the foot valve?

On 2017-03-04 18:35:13.723611 by (mod) -

Tim,

If the pump can't pump above 32 psi I suspect one of the problems explained at https://inspectapedia.com/plumbing/Pump_Runs_On.php

On 2017-03-04 13:09:03.092269 by Tim Teribury

I have a 2 pipe jet pump 1/3 go at 30ft wil l only build 32lbs of pressure is this pump to small with a blatter tank, use to pump to 60lbs with a non blatter tank

On 2017-02-22 by (mod) - pump lost prime will build pressure them no water sucking air

Check for a bad check valve or foot valve or well piping leak. Search InspectApedia for HOW TO PRIME THE PUMP

On 2017-02-21 by craig

pump lost prime will build pressure them no water sucking air

On 2017-02-06 04:10:11.752872 by Russ

Can I use a pump tank combo for a two pipe well

On 2017-01-11 by (mod) -

Cindy Tesler said:

Thanks for pointing out that a two-line jet pump can typically raise water from depths of 30-feet to 80-feet. You also said that your well should be effected by the depth of the well as well as the pump's horsepower.

I think it's a good idea to choose a well pump contractor that takes the time to explain how your pump is installed so that you can properly maintain it.

On 2017-01-07 by (mod) - water usage rate exceeds the flow rate of the well.

Sounds as if the water usage rate exceeds the flow rate of the well.

When a pump seems to come on for "no reason" either water is running somewhere ( a running toilet for example) or there is a leak somewhere, perhaps outside or even on piping in the well. Search InspectApedia for PUMP RUNS FOR NO REASON or search for WATER PUMP RUNS INTERMITTENTLY to see details.

On 2017-01-07 by barb

taking shower pump starts losing prime shut water of and it primes up and shuts off pump comes on for no reason but shut off after a few seconds

On 2016-12-31 by (mod) - lose prime whenever electricity goes off

Debbra

A common cause of lost prime when you lose power is abad check valve or bad foot valve.

When you HAVE power and water is leaking back into the well the pump control turns on the pump before it has lost prime so you may never notice the problem. But when you are without electricity for a time water drains back into the well and the pump loses prime.

Use our on page search box to find the instructions at HOW TO PRIME THE PUMP

On 2016-12-30 by Debbra Tripp

I have a two line pump and I want to know why it will lose it's prime Evey time the electric go's out. This time I am having a hard time getting it to prime now. Can u plz help me . Tell me what I need to do.

On 2016-12-09 by (mod) - replacing a single line pump with a 2 line pump.

Jim I don't quite have the full picture, but generally

1. you can convert some pumps between 1 and 2 line by changing the pump's front-end and of course re-piping everything.

2. IN the well the tailpiece and foot valve for a 2 line system are different - instead of a foot valve there's a venturi ejector. The pump won't work without that featuyre.

On 2016-12-06 by Jim Blackburn

I am replacing a single line pump with a 2 line pump. However, I am not pulling from a well, i have a 1400 gal holding tank sitting on the ground outside my pump house, and there is a check valve between the holding tank and the pump. The ejector has a single inlet on it, so I connected that to the check valve from the holding tank.

When I applied water to the pump, the check valve started to oscillate and made a clicking, whirring noise. We tried energizing the pump, but were unable to get much pressure past 20 PSI. I would like to eliminate the ejector, and just connect directly to the impeller housing, and block off the other inlet

. Which opening would be best to put the water into, the larger at the top or the smaller at the bottom. Then I will just plug off the other opening. Would that work OK? My pressure regulator valve is connected to my pressure tank, about 60-80 gal size. Thank you for your assistance.

On 2016-11-28 by Stacy pump is hot to touch and I'm getting little water

The pump is hot to touch and I'm getting little water. I replaced the pressure switch. Still doing the same. Can someone tell me what to do?

On 2016-11-14 by Anonymous

my well pump will not go above 10 psi how do i fix that

On 2016-11-13 by Anonymous Can I make a two line pump into a one line.

Can I make a two line pump into a one line.

On 2016-11-06 by (mod) -

Richard, some jet pump models are covertible betweeen a 1 -line and 2-line system by changing the pump front end or impeller assembly. You may also need to pull the well piping to install the proper foot valve on the return line that you want to use. And since you'd be going to that much trouble, if the leak is in the piping sections within the well, that'd be the time to replace the leaky pipe.

Keep in mind that a 1 line jet pump can't lift more than about 27 feet, so if your 2 line system is lifting more than that distance a conversion to a 1 line system won't work.

On 2016-11-06 12:13:18.972336 by Richard - convert a two pipe into a single pipe by running the return pipe ?

Can I convert a two pipe into a single pipe by running the return pipe I.not the suction. My return pipe has a leak.

On 2016-11-04 by bob

about to install dab jet pump i have one pipe coming from the well do i need to plug the pressure port on the face of my pump ?

On 2016-08-17 by (mod) - pump is turning off on reset, perhaps your pressure switch includes a pump protection feature t

If the pump is turning off on reset, perhaps your pressure switch includes a pump protection feature that avoids pump damage should the pump run dry. Some such switches must be manually reset. The well water level may be low - just a guess.

Next time you run water and pressure falls and the pump doesn't start on its own, instead of using a reset lever or button, try just tapping on the pressure control switch body. If the switch closes and the pump runs the switch needs to be re-built or replaced.

On 2016-08-17 by alison

Water stopped running. Clicked the reset button kicked in and represursied. Tested to see if it would restart and kick in after water was used and it did not. What is wrong.

On 2016-08-04 by (mod) - failed check valve or foot valve

Check for a failed check valve or foot valve.

On 2016-08-03 by brian the boyfriend

Gf has deep well 2 line water ace. Keeps losing prime, on second pressure switch in5 yrs,and now seal is out of shaft-bad leak.

Q is are we looking bad ck. valve or just seal causing pressure loss. Note that pump would turn on as soon as anything used. Trying not to do a new well. PLEASE HELP.

On 2016-05-10 by (mod) - how to see large diagrams and photos at this website

Tomba

Click on any illustration or photo found at InspectApedia.com and you'll be shown a larger copy of the same ite.

On 2016-05-09 by tomba

Larger diagram of connecting two pipes in jet pump from button to top

On 2016-05-04 by (mod) - use the same size of pipe for suction pipe and pressure pipe?

Probably, but I don't really know. I've not seen the setup your installer intends. Give your pump manufacturer a call to confirm its ok.

On 2016-05-04 by wztrac@yahoo.com

I plan to set up a deep well jet pump with 2 line pipe. The pump installer want to use the same size of pipe for suction pipe and pressure pipe wherein the motor hole for suction pipe is 1 & 1/4 " and 1" for the pressure pipe.

Is this possible to use the same diameter of pipe for suction and pressure pipe?

On 2016-04-29 by Hellery

My well pump is fully set up and runningwater but water stops flowing every once in a while? need help

On 2016-04-20 by (mod) - Both pipes go into the well for a 2-line jetpump.

Both pipes go into the well for a 2-line jetpump. The smaller diameter line is sending water down to the well where passing through a venturi orifice more water is sent back up to the pump.

On 2016-04-20 by Anonymous

WHAT LINE DOSE WATER GO DOWN / 1" OR 1 1/4"?

On 2016-04-05 by (mod) - galvanic action that occurs if copper and iron are put in contact.

You can mix fittings but you will want to look at the problem of galvanic action that occurs if copper and iron are put in contact.

See https://inspectapedia.com/BestPractices/Galvanic_Scale_Corrosion.php

On 2016-04-05 by Paula - Does it matter if you use plastic, brass, or iron fittings? I

I had a new pressure tank put in, and now the 1" line is leaking. I put in so long ago, I can't remember what fittings I used. Does it matter if you use plastic, brass, or iron fittings? It looks like I used two different fittings, so maybe I did an iron fitting, and then did a plastic adapter. I want to replace the fittings first, and check to make sure the housing is in tact. I can't see where the leak is coming from.

On 2016-03-21 by (mod) - swap the front end impeller assembly when converting between 1 line jet pump & 2 line jet pump

No, David, that' won't work. IF your pump is a jet pump model that is convertible, you'll need to swap out the front end of the impeller from a 2-line to a 1-line set-up.

On 2016-03-20 Does it matter if you use plastic, brass, or iron fittings? Iby David

Can I plug the smaller hole on my Goulds jet pump to use as a single line.

On 2016-02-16 by (mod) - tank manufacturers want the tank and its pressure control located as close to the pump as possible.

Indeed most pressure tank manufacturers want the tank and its pressure control located as close to the pump as possible.

But I doubt that error would explain the failure of the pump to deliver water unless it was short cycling and burned-up a control or motor.

On 2016-02-16 by Heather distance between the pump and pressure tank

Do you think that the distance between the pump and pressure tank could be a factor

On 2016-02-16 by (mod) -

Heather I can't guess from just your e-text. First confirm that the pump has power, next that it runs. If it runs but delivers no water it may have lost prime. Search InspectApedia for PRIME THE PUMP for solutions.

On 2016-02-16 by Heather - wht won't the pump work?

I have a shallow well setup. Pump is at the well. Inlet is 1 inch and a quarter. Outlet is 1 inch. Lift is 40 feet, distance is 325 feet. Pump and pressure tank are separated by 325 feet. Why won't it work

On 2016-02-14 by (mod) - wait for water to return to a well drawn dry

Anon

After leaving the pump off for an hour (or better 3-4 hours) you may see that water pressure has returned. If so then the problem is a slow well flow rate.

Don't let the pump keep running "dry" or it may be damaged.

On 2016-02-14 by Anonymous

baseboard heat line froze and leaked, don't know how long pump was running, shut off main line from pump but pump will not build to shut off pressure of 40psi

On 2016-02-13 17:12:29.254411 by (mod) -

Cat

A system can have a bad check valve or foot valve that sticks open only itermittently. Or a system can have a bad foot valve that leaks slowly - as long as the pump has power, occasionally enough water leaks back into the well that the pump turns on and re-pressurizes the pressure tank without losing prime. But in that situation if power is off for a time enough water can drain back into the well to lose prime.

Occasionally also a leak in well piping can admit air into the piping.

On 2016-02-12 y cat18

THANK YOU...for ALL the info!! Loosing prime isn't an ongoing problem. It's happened twice in 7 years, and both times I was running/filling washing machine (which well/pump/bladder tank weren't built for) when area power went out.

The ONLY thing plumber did, last week, was prime it. Everything above ground checked out fine. ONLY thing that I can come up with is that somehow/somewhere there was an air problem in my system that got 'flushed out' inadvertently when he primed it. I'm going to look up the few things you told me about, and symptoms of air in systems.

On 2016-02-12 by (mod) -it it possible to 'under' prime a system?

If an above ground well pump is not adequately primed it will not deliver water, period.

If you are losing prime I suspect a failing check valve or foot valve (in the well).

The pump motor normally determines the water pressure that can be delivered. However if a well flow rate is poor and if the pump includes a tailpiece or other control to avoid pump motor damage from running dry, then low water in the well or low flow rate might show up as reduced flow or reduced water delivery rate ("pressure") in the building.

Ask for a well flow test and also find out the depth of the static head in the well. If you don't know these terms you can find articles about them by searching InspectApedia for STATIC HEAD in the WELL and WELL FLOW RATE

On 2016-02-12 by cat18

General question about a deep well/jet (2-line) pump setup. Can ANYONE tell me if it's at all possible to 'under' prime a system?

System hasn't lost it's prime in years, however in-house water hasn't been all that great. Pump was primed (by neighbor) few yrs back. Had to be primed again (now) but I called a plumber to do it. Water seems a LOT better inside house now.

Have area well/pump company holding until weather breaks but now I'm not sure if I even need them to come out? When anything is primed, it works, as far as I know. Not primed, doesn't work. Trying to make sense out of this before someone tells me that I really DO need a new well...which I can't afford. ANY help w/b GREATLY appreciated.

On 2016-02-08 by Jen

I have a 2 line jet pump.This Morning the line from the pressure tank to the pump blew. After reconnecting, there is water in the line, but not in the line from the pump to the house. PSI will not go above 10.

On 2016-02-07 by (mod) - pressure gauge not working

When you open the valve between tank and building pressure in the water tank should send water into the building until pressure drops enough for the pump to turn on to continue water supply. If that's not happening either your pump is not running or your gauge is not working.

On 2016-02-07 by Anonymous

The pump and gauge holds pressure when main is closed. When opened no pressure.

I have a 2-pipe jet pump with no pressure what-so-ever coming out of the fitting that goes to the pressure switch. pump builds pressure to mid-50psi and runs for 30 minutes before 'maybe' shutting off on its own. it seems there is something internally wrong with the pump itself. your thoughts are appreciated.

On 2016-01-24 by (mod) - want to cap off an old pipe

You can cap the pipe; keep in mind that if the pipe breaks, corrodes or otherwise leaks in the future you may still have a leak or water entry problem.

On 2016-01-14 by Seth

I'm not concern about the smell as all I want to do is cap off the pipe so I can refinish the basement. Do I have to be concerned that "whatever" the pipe is connected to will overflow and cause water to seep into the basement. Or is generally is it so far down its not a concern?

On 2016-01-09 by (mod) - rotten egg smells in the water

Seth please search InspectApedia for SULPHUR ODORS in WATER or ROTTEN EGG ODORS in WATER to see the typical causes and cures;

On 2016-01-07 by Seth The water that comes out of the hose has a light sulfur smell

I am on municiple water. The house was built in '65 in Ithaca NY. We moved in 10 years ago. The water that comes out of the hose has a light sulfur smell and eventually leaves rusty residue in the utility sink. Could the runoff be "saving" the basement from water intrusion? It's a very dry basement. My fear is removing the house would allow whatever is underneath to overflow. Not sure if that is possible.

On 2016-01-06 by (mod) - Shark Bite plumbing fittings solve hookup troubles on plumbing

The Shark BIte fitting has been a real boon to plumbers - fast and apparently, if properly installed, quite reliable. Nevertheless, if I were going to cement over a stubbed off pipe (a step I do not recommend, it's better to leave access to it), I'd probably use a soldered fitting.

(Do soldering in winter when no water is emerging). I speculate that the copper pipe may be delivering water from a spring, a weak artesian well, or even from an old cistern that fills up with rainwater or surface runoff. I don't know as I don't know a thing about the home, age, location, construction, local water table.

I take it you now are on municipal water or have a completely different pump and well set-up, right?

On 2016-01-06 11:20:03.501555 by Seth

I have a jet pump that is not in use. Two galvanized lines out of basement wall and a copper line that goes straight down into the concrete slab

. The copper was cut, and a garden hose attached. In the spring water will come out. The hose leads to a utility sink but I'd like to get rid of the hose. What is this copper pipe and can I use a shark bite to cap the copper? I'd like to finish my basement and get rid of the hose. This was a previous owner setup.

On 2016-01-01 by (mod) - pressure will not get above 30 pounds,

Anon these are two separate problems:

1. unless your pump system has either a special "tankless" pump controller or a pressure tank, in a residential water supply application you're likely to have short cycling and to burn up the pump motor pretty quickly.

2. If the pump cannot develop pressure above 30 psi then there are several possible causes such as a damaged pump impeller, piping leaks, low well water. See

https://inspectapedia.com/plumbing/Pump_Runs_On.php

for diagnostic instructions

...

Continue reading at WATER PUMP, TWO LINE JET - topic home, or select a topic from the closely-related articles below, or see the complete ARTICLE INDEX.

Or see WATER PUMP TWO LINE JET PUMP FAQs-3 - more recent questions and answers about fixing 2-line jet pumps.

Or see these

Recommended Articles

• SHORT CYCLING WATER PUMP
• WATER PRESSURE PROBLEM DIAGNOSIS TABLE
• WATER PUMP DIAGNOSTIC TABLE
• WELL PUMP PRIMING PROCEDURE if you need to re-prime your jet pump.
• WELL CAPS & COVERS - requirements for sealed well caps & covers, requirements for vents & exclusion of vent requirements for some jet pump installations.

Suggested citation for this web page

WATER PUMP TWO LINE JET PUMP FAQs-2 at InspectApedia.com - online encyclopedia of building & environmental inspection, testing, diagnosis, repair, & problem prevention advice.

Or see this

INDEX to RELATED ARTICLES: ARTICLE INDEX to WATER SUPPLY, PUMPS TANKS WELLS

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