1. Choosing the Wrong Pump Size
One of the most common mistakes is picking a pump that does not match the borewell’s depth, diameter, or the water requirement of the farm or home. A pump that is too small will struggle to deliver enough water, while an oversized pump wastes electricity and can damage the borewell over time. Always match the pump’s flow rate and head to your actual water needs and borewell specifications.
2. Not Checking the Borewell Diameter
Every borewell has a specific diameter, and the pump you choose must fit comfortably inside it. Forcing a pump that is too wide into a narrow borewell can damage the pump casing and the borewell lining. Always measure the borewell diameter carefully before ordering a pump.
3. Ignoring the Water Table and Pump Depth
Placing the pump too high or too low in the borewell is a common error. If the pump is set above the water level, it can run dry and burn out quickly. If it is placed too deep without reason, it adds unnecessary strain and cost. The pump should be positioned a safe distance below the lowest expected water level, with enough clearance from the bottom of the borewell.
4. Using Low-Quality or Incorrect Cables
Submersible pumps run underwater, so the electrical cable connecting the motor to the power source must be of proper quality and correct size. Using thin or low-grade cables causes voltage drop, overheating, and motor failure. Always use cables rated for submersible use and sized correctly for the pump’s power and cable length.
5. Skipping the Non-Return Valve
A non-return valve (check valve) stops water from flowing back into the borewell when the pump switches off. Without it, water hammer can damage the pump, and the motor has to restart against a full column of water each time, increasing wear and power use. Never skip installing a non-return valve above the pump.
6. Poor Electrical Connections and No Protection Devices
Loose wiring, wrong earthing, or skipping protection devices like a starter, capacitor, or voltage protector can lead to motor burnout, especially in areas with unstable power supply. Proper earthing and the right control panel protect the motor from voltage fluctuations, dry running, and short circuits.
7. Not Testing Water Quality Before Installation
Water containing sand, silt, or other particles can wear down pump components quickly if the wrong pump type is installed. Skipping a water quality check before installation is a mistake that leads to early pump damage. If your borewell water carries sand, choose a pump designed to handle it, or install a proper filtration arrangement.
8. Incorrect Pump Suspension
The pump must be securely suspended in the borewell using a proper rope or cable rated to hold its weight, not just the power cable. Relying on the electrical cable alone to hold the pump’s weight is a common mistake that can snap the cable and drop the pump into the borewell. Always use a separate, strong suspension rope.
9. Rushing the Installation Without Proper Alignment
Installing the pump at an angle, or without making sure it hangs straight in the borewell, can cause uneven wear, vibration, and reduced efficiency. Take time to align the pump properly and lower it slowly and steadily rather than rushing the job.
10. Not Planning for Maintenance Access
Some installations make it difficult to pull the pump out later for servicing or repair, because of how the pipes, cables, or borewell head are set up. Planning the installation with future maintenance in mind saves a lot of time and cost when the pump eventually needs to be inspected or repaired.
How to Get Borewell Pump Installation Right
Avoiding these mistakes mostly comes down to careful planning and using quality components. Here is a quick checklist to keep in mind:
- Get accurate borewell depth, diameter, and water table measurements before choosing a pump.
- Buy from a trusted manufacturer that offers pumps matched to your exact requirement.
- Use correctly sized cables, a non-return valve, and proper suspension rope.
- Install proper earthing and voltage protection devices.
- Hire an experienced installer rather than attempting a rushed, do-it-yourself setup.
Orbit Submersible Pumps & Motors, manufactured by Vishvakarma Engineering Works in Odhav, Ahmedabad, offers a wide range of submersible pumps, vertical openwell pumps, and solar DC submersible pumps designed and certified for reliable borewell performance. Choosing a certified pump backed by ISO 9001-2008, BEE, ISI, and NABCB standards is one of the simplest ways to avoid many of these installation problems from the start.
Conclusion
A borewell pump is a long-term investment, and how it is installed matters just as much as which pump you buy. Simple mistakes like wrong sizing, poor cabling, skipping a non-return valve, or careless suspension can lead to breakdowns, high power bills, and costly repairs down the line. By planning carefully, using quality components, and getting help from an experienced installer, you can avoid these common mistakes and enjoy years of trouble-free water supply from your borewell pump.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the most common mistake during borewell pump installation?
Choosing the wrong pump size for the borewell’s depth and diameter is one of the most common mistakes, as it leads to poor water flow or unnecessary strain on the motor.
Why is a non-return valve important in borewell pump installation?
A non-return valve stops water from flowing back into the borewell when the pump is switched off, preventing water hammer and reducing wear on the motor each time it restarts.
Can I use the pump’s power cable to hang it in the borewell?
No, the pump should be suspended using a separate, properly rated rope or cable, since relying only on the electrical cable can cause it to snap under the pump’s weight.
How deep should a submersible pump be installed in a borewell?
The pump should be placed a safe distance below the lowest expected water level, with enough clearance from the bottom of the borewell, to avoid dry running and unnecessary strain.
Do I need voltage protection devices for my borewell pump?
Yes, protection devices such as a starter, capacitor, and voltage protector help guard the motor against voltage fluctuations, dry running, and short circuits, especially in areas with unstable power supply.
Where can I buy a reliable pump for borewell installation?
Orbit Submersible Pumps & Motors, based in Odhav, Ahmedabad, manufactures certified submersible pumps, openwell pumps, and solar DC submersible pumps suited for borewell use. You can contact them through their website for product details and quotes.