UNDERSTANDING RURAL WATER SYSTEMS
(Page 4 of 4)
September/October 1987
By the Mother Earth News editors
Finally, don't ignore the electrical features of your water system. A pump is especially sensitive to power surges caused by local lightning strikes and motor overloading. The first, by far more frightening, can be controlled with the proper use of one or more lightning arresters placed at the pump control box, the service entrance or both. Overloading occurs when the pump cycles too often or is prevented from spinning freely; overheating caused by a low water level or low pressure is just as harmful. Modern pumps have built-in thermal protection, but external back-up safety controls are always a good investment, and something your local well driller or electrician should be familiar with.
RELATED CONTENT
Though water seems to be everywhere, it's not so easy to come by when it stops running. A few hours of time now may keep you in gallons for some time in the future — it's well worth the investment.
Editor's Note: There are two excellent books available which go into much greater detail on home water systems. The Home Water Supply , by Stu Campbell ($12.95 plus $2 for 4th class mail from Storey Communications, Inc., Schoolhouse Rd., Pownal, VT 05261, Order No. 324-0), is a technical yet amicable account of the author's experiences with wells, ponds, water delivery and treatment methods in northern Vermont. Planning for an Individual Water System , prepared by G. E. Henderson, is published by the American Association for Vocational Instructional Materials ($12 from AA VIM, 120 Engineering Center, Athens, GA 30602; quantity discounts available) and is a thoroughly illustrated student text with a simplified technical format.
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