Booster Pumps & Storage Tanks

A booster pump is used to raise incoming pressure on a water system – if you have a well that is much lower in elevation from the house, or has a low yield, oftentimes a booster pump is used in combination with an above ground storage tank to deliver usable pressure to the home. Booster pumps are also used on city water systems to boost poor incoming water pressure from the city.

A storage tank is used to collect water over a longer period of time at lower flow rates, store it, and then combined with a booster pump to pull water from the storage tank to meet the peak demand flow and pressure requirements.

Storage tanks & booster pump systems are typically installed by JKA when the well produces very low volumes of water, or when a higher volume of water is needed during peak demands than the well can economically deliver. A common application is for domestic fire sprinkler systems. If the domestic fire sprinkler system requires 26 GPM at 50 PSI, and your well only makes 10 GPM, then the well will be piped to a 500+ gallon storage tank installed above ground in a well house or mechanical space. From the storage tank a booster pump is used to pull water from atmospheric pressure to line pressure for your fire sprinklers, domestic supply, and irrigation water supply.

A common booster pump is a centrifugal style pump that is mounted to the floor with a variable speed controller or switch operating the pump. When low water pressure causes the pump to start, the pump will ramp up to boost the water pressure to the higher ‘pump off’ point.

On city water systems, a pressure reducing valve is installed after the pump to prevent the pump from building too much pressure in the plumbing system. Additionally, a bypass line is often necessary to allow for water to route around the pump in case of trouble with the pump.

Booster pumps can have a variety of controls, switches, bypasses, valves, and safeguards built in by the installer. While not required, a low water float to prevent the booster pump from pulling air is recommended. It’s also recommended to filter the water as much as possible prior to entering the storage tank.

Do you need help with your water system? 

If you need well repairs, a well inspection, a well drilled, or any of the other well and water system related services we provide, you can email us 24 hours a day at service@jkawelldrilling.com, or call us at (360) 684-1932 (office hours are Monday-Friday, 730AM - 300PM).

Does Monroe Washington Have a Lot of Wells?

Yes, Monroe, Washington has a lot of wells. According to the Washington State Department of Ecology, there are over 10,000 active wells in the city of Monroe. This is because Monroe is located in a region with a high water table and abundant groundwater resources....

FAQ: When Should I Replace My Well Casing?

The lifespan of a well casing can vary depending on a number of factors, including the type of casing material, the quality of the installation, and the environmental conditions. In Washington state, well casings typically last for 20-30 years. However, there are a...

Here are some additional tips for well owners with older wells:

Be aware of the signs of well problems. This could include low water pressure, brown or cloudy water, or an unpleasant taste or odor. Have your well inspected more frequently than every 10 years, especially if you are located in an area with known groundwater...

FAQ: If My Well Is More Than 10 Years Old, What Do I Need to Do?

If your well is more than 10 years old, you should have it inspected by a qualified well contractor or inspector. This will help to identify any potential problems with your well, such as damage, corrosion, or leaks. The inspector may also recommend any necessary...

How Do You Get Water for Irrigation?

Accessing water sources for irrigation involves several steps, including understanding local regulations, obtaining necessary permits, and installing the appropriate infrastructure. Here's a general guide on how to access water sources for irrigation: Identify Water...

Without a Home Inspection Before Buying, You Might Run Into Problems

Without a home inspection before buying, you might run into several potential well issues that could pose significant problems and expenses. A well inspection is crucial, especially for properties with a private well as their water source. A well inspection can reveal...

What Regulatory Requirements Lead to Well Decommisions? (Pacific Northwest – Monroe, WA)

In the northwest region, the specific regulatory requirements that can lead to the decommissioning of a well may vary depending on the jurisdiction and local regulations. However, here are some common regulatory factors that could contribute to the decommissioning of...

What Well Pump Brands Do Professional Well Installers Use?

In the Northwest region of the United States, some well pump brands are particularly popular among professional well installers due to their reliability and performance in the local conditions. While preferences may vary among installers, the following well pump...

What Kind of Maintenance Do Well Owners Do in the Pacific Northwest

As a well owner in the Pacific Northwest, there are several important maintenance tasks you should consider to ensure the proper functioning and safety of your well system. Here are some key maintenance activities: Regular Water Testing: Schedule periodic water...

Iron Bacteria in Water Wells

Iron Reducing Bacteria in Snohomish County Water Well Systems Reducing Bacteria, otherwise known as Iron Bacteria, is a naturally occurring family of bacteria that consume raw minerals in groundwater.   While not typically a problem, iron bacteria can produce a slime...

ASSOCIATIONS & MEMBERSHIPS