Avoiding Dry Run Damage in Myers Water Well Pumps
The shower went cold, pressure dropped to a whisper, and the washing machine blinked “low flow.” In my world, that chain of events almost always points to one thing: a pump that just ran dry. A submersible starved of water will overheat in minutes; a jet pump can scorch seals and warp impellers before you find the breaker panel. Dry running is the silent killer of otherwise well-built systems—and it’s completely preventable with smart sizing, protective controls, and the right hardware.
Two weeks ago, I got a call from the Mendozas—a new-to-rural family that had just purchased a small homestead outside Ellensburg, Washington. Luis Mendoza (38), a remote software engineer, and his spouse, Renee (36), a school nurse, moved onto five acres with their kids, Sofia (10) and Mateo (6). Their 240-foot private well was equipped with a 3/4 HP budget submersible, originally sized for a single bath. After a week of irrigation and laundry, they lost water entirely. The culprit: a low static water level, a mismatched pump curve, and no dry-run protection. That combo cooked the motor in one afternoon.
For rural homeowners and contractors, water is not optional. Avoiding dry run damage isn’t just a best practice—it’s the difference between an 8-15 year pump life and a two-summers-and-gone replacement cycle. In this guide, I’ll show you how to protect Myers water well pumps from dry run stress—starting with the right Myers Predator Plus model, adding protective controls, and installing the accessories that keep water flowing safely. You’ll see exactly how the Mendozas solved their problem with a Myers Predator Plus upgrade, why materials matter, when a 2-wire wins over a 3-wire, and how to set a pressure tank to prevent short cycling. We’ll cover stainless construction, Pentek XE high-thrust motors, Teflon-impregnated staging, pressure switch strategy, pitless adapters, and drop-pipe details. We’ll also touch on why Myers outlasts specific competitors in real-world dry run scenarios. If you rely on a private well, this list is your playbook.
#1. Myers Predator Plus Series Selection — Matching TDH to the Pump Curve Prevents Starvation and Dry Running
Getting the pump curve right is the first line of defense against dry run damage, because a properly sized submersible well pump won’t overpull a marginal aquifer or short-cycle the system into heat stress. You’re aiming for flow at the system’s TDH (total dynamic head) that lands near the model’s best efficiency point (BEP). For most homes, that means 7–12 GPM at 40–60 PSI plus vertical lift and friction losses. Myers’ Predator Plus Series gives you multiple stages in 1/2 HP to 2 HP with shut-off head options from 250–490 feet, letting you dial in performance so the pump isn’t forced to run in a near “no-load” condition when the water level falls.
With a Predator Plus, you’re working with models built for efficiency near BEP—over 80% hydraulic efficiency when sized correctly. That efficiency isn’t just about power bills; it limits heat buildup when static levels drop and keeps motor amps within spec under transient conditions.
Luis and Renee’s well draws down from 110 feet static to around 165 feet during summer irrigation. We moved them to a Myers deep well pump—a 1 HP, 10–12 GPM, multi-stage Predator Plus matched to their TDH—with headroom to ride out seasonal drawdown without dry run cycling.
Pump Curve Reality Check
Missing TDH by 40–60 feet sends the pump outside its sweet spot. That shows up as hotter windings, chattering pressure switches, and strained starts. Use accurate measurements: well depth, static level, pumping level, elevation to tank, and piping friction. PSAM provides pump curve charts and quick TDH calculators so you don’t guess. Err on the side of efficiency over raw GPM in marginal wells.
BEP and Heat Management
Running near BEP keeps amperage steady and motor temperature predictable. Stray well below BEP and you risk recirculation within stages; go well above and you can stall flow. The Pentek XE motor in Myers submersibles forgives more than most, but curve alignment is still the difference between “runs all day” and “smells hot.”
Rick’s Sizing Pro Tip
Start with 1 GPM per fixture in older homes, 7–10 GPM target for typical families, then layer in irrigation demand. In deep wells with drawdown, prioritize head capacity over maximal GPM. This keeps you in water when your neighbor’s system is sputtering.
Key takeaway: Choose a Predator Plus model with headroom for seasonal drawdown and aim for BEP. Dry run risk drops dramatically when the pump curve fits your well, not just your wish list.
#2. Pentek XE High-Thrust Motor — Thermal and Lightning Protection Reduce Dry Run Burnout Odds
When water is scarce, motor protection is your last shield before a dry run turns into a burnt winding. Myers integrates the Pentek XE motor—a high-thrust, single-phase motor with thermal overload protection and lightning protection engineered for continuous duty. In the real world, that means the motor trips before it cooks if water vanishes, and it shrugs off minor surges that would carbonize lesser windings.
This matters because a submersible depends on surrounding water to carry off heat. When starved, the stator warms rapidly. A smart thermal trip in the XE motor breaks the circuit in time, reducing permanent damage. Only put your faith in motors that trip predictably, reset cleanly, and don’t spiral into an overload cycle that keeps trying to run dry.
The Mendozas endured exactly one dry run event after their upgrade—during a test when I deliberately closed flow to simulate a clog. The motor tripped, rested, and came back without drama. That’s what protection is for: graceful failure modes.
High-Thrust Bearings and Axial Loads
Dry-running moments create axial shock. The XE’s bearing stack is built to handle start/stop under load without deforming. High-thrust bearings absorb the push from multi-stage impellers as pressure builds, preventing friction spikes that can weld a bearing in a dry bore.
Reliable Thermal Trip Curves
Not all thermal protectors act the same. A quality protector disengages before copper and varnish are damaged, then resets at a temperature that avoids short-cycling. XE motors have consistent trip curves that align with real-world heat rise in 230V setups.
Lightning and Surge Protection
Rural feeds get dirty power. Built-in surge tolerance isn’t a luxury—it’s non-negotiable. The XE’s electronics and insulation class minimize nuisance failures after storms. Pair it with a dedicated breaker and proper grounding and you cut premature failures in half.
Key takeaway: Pentek XE protection buys you time in a dry run event. On marginal wells, that’s the difference between a reset and a replacement.
#3. 300 Series Stainless Steel Construction — Heat-Resistant, Corrosion-Resistant, and Field-Serviceable Under Stress
Heat finds weak links. Pumps with thermoplastic or cast iron components often soften, pit, or corrode where you can’t see it. Myers’ use of 300 series stainless steel—from shell to discharge PSAM myers pump https://www.plumbingsupplyandmore.com/1-2-hp-submersible-well-pump-9-stages-for-deep-wells.html bowl, shaft, coupling, wear ring, and suction screen—keeps the structure stable even when temperatures spike during brief dry run episodes. Stainless resists mineral-rich waters common in the West and upper Midwest, and it doesn’t shed fragments into the water column when stressed.
A threaded assembly makes the Predator Plus field serviceable, which isn’t just convenient; it’s economically smart. If grit-burnished wear rings need replacement, you service the pump instead of scrapping it.
Luis’s previous pump used a composite shell that warped at the discharge after a partial dry run. With the stainless Predator Plus, he’s covered for both corrosion resistance and shape stability if the motor ever overheats and recovers.
Why Stainless Wins in Hot-Cool Cycles
Thermal expansion cycles are rough on mixed-material pumps. Stainless components expand predictably together, minimizing internal misalignment. That helps impeller-to-diffuser clearances stay within tolerance after a scare.
Lead-Free, NSF-Friendly Build
Myers’ stainless assemblies are NSF certified, UL listed, and CSA certified—meaning you’re not just durable; you’re compliant. Households with kids and medical considerations appreciate that.
Repair, Don’t Replace
Threaded stacks allow disassembly. In my shop, I’ve rebuilt Predator Plus pumps with new engineered composite impellers and wear rings right on the bench. It’s the smart path when sand has kissed the internals but the motor is pristine.
Key takeaway: Stainless throughout the wet end survives the heat stress that accompanies dry-run scares and keeps your investment serviceable for the long haul.
#4. Teflon-Impregnated Staging — Self-Lubricating Impellers That Keep Spinning When Grit Shows Up
When a well draws down, the first thing you pull is air; the second is fines. Sand and silt turn ordinary impellers into grinders. Myers stages use Teflon-impregnated staging and self-lubricating impellers—an engineered composite that runs cooler and resists abrasion when lubrication is scarce. That buys you runway during interruptions and protects the pump when the water goes murky.
In a semi-dry condition, friction skyrockets. Teflon-impregnated parts reduce boundary friction and stave off the cascade that warps stages and stalls rotors. For homes on glacial till, river gravel, or fractured basalt, this is not a “nice to have.”
During the Mendozas’ first irrigation season, a neighbor’s heavy draw stirred fines into the aquifer. Their Predator Plus stayed quiet and smooth. In lesser staging, that week would have chewed edges and widened clearance.
Engineered Composite vs. Raw Thermoplastic
Not all plastics are equal. Engineered composites in Myers staging hold shape at elevated temperatures and don’t groove under grit like softer compounds. That preserves pump efficiency and keeps amps in range.
Heat and Abrasion, Together
Dry-run episodes often come with suspended particles. Teflon impregnation reduces friction heat; abrasion resistance keeps impeller geometry intact. Protecting geometry means preserving head pressure.
Service Intervals Improve
Less wear inside the stack extends the interval between tear-downs. Contractors appreciate predictable performance and fewer callbacks after seasonal drawdowns.
Key takeaway: Grit shows up when wells get low. Myers’ self-lubricating staging keeps you pumping through it—and avoids the spiral toward heat and seizure.
#5. Smart Controls That Prevent Dry Run — Pressure Switch, Pump Controller, and Sensor Strategy
Mechanical strength helps, but controls stop dry run events before the motor risks damage. Pair your Myers submersible well pump with a protection stack: a properly set pressure switch, a reliable control box (for 3-wire or advanced protection), and a dry-run controller or well water sensor. You’re aiming for layered protection that kills power when pressure drops abnormally fast or when amps spike out of range.
For the Mendozas, we used a 230V 1 HP Predator Plus in a 2-wire configuration with an add-on dry-run protection controller that monitors current draw. It trips within seconds of loss of load, then auto-resets after a safe interval. The pressure switch remains the primary on/off logic; the protector is the safety net.
Pressure Switch Settings That Prevent Short Cycling
A 40/60 PSI switch paired with a correctly sized pressure tank reduces starts per day. Fewer starts equal less heat. Set the tank air precharge 2 PSI below the cut-in (38 PSI for a 40/60 system). Short cycling is the gateway to dry run because the pump keeps chasing falling pressure.
Dry-Run Controllers: Current vs. Pressure
Current-sensing devices trip on loss of load—a hallmark of running dry. Pressure-based controls sense sudden pressure collapse. In marginal wells, I prefer current-sensing for speed and reliability. Use both if you irrigate.
Control Box and Reset Strategy
If you run a 3-wire well pump, the external control box can incorporate protection and soft start options. Auto-reset after 30–60 minutes gives your well time to recover. Avoid rapid auto-reset loops; let the aquifer breathe.
Key takeaway: Controls are cheap insurance. Set your switch properly, add a dry-run controller, and build a system that shuts down gracefully when water disappears.
#6. 2-Wire vs 3-Wire Myers Configurations — Which Reduces Dry Run Risk and Lifetime Cost?
Both 2-wire and 3-wire well pump configurations can be protected, but each has trade-offs. Myers offers both to fit the well and the homeowner. A 2-wire Predator Plus integrates the start components in the motor—clean and simple, often cheaper up front. A 3-wire unit uses an external control box, allowing easier capacitor swaps and more advanced protection options.
For dry run protection, either works when paired with a quality controller. In the Mendozas’ case, 2-wire saved roughly $250 in control gear and simplified installation. With PSAM’s add-on current-sensing dry-run protector, it’s robust and budget-smart.
When 3-Wire Makes Sense
Long drops, complex irrigation, or frequent starts can benefit from an external box. Serviceability improves: swap a capacitor in minutes without pulling the pump. For high HP (1.5–2 HP) deep wells, I often choose 3-wire for control versatility.
When 2-Wire Wins
Smaller homes, moderate depths, and straightforward plumbing shine with 2-wire simplicity. Fewer parts that can fail, lower upfront cost, and easy integration with dry-run protection. For 1/2 HP to 1 HP at 230V, it’s a workhorse.
Amperage and Wire Gauge
Check amperage draw and distance to the panel. Long runs may push you toward heavier gauge wire; plan for voltage drop under load. PSAM carries wire splice kits and charts to match your run length.
Key takeaway: Choose the configuration that fits your serviceability and protection plan. With the right controller, both 2-wire and 3-wire Myers pumps stay safe when water gets scarce.
#7. Pressure Tank and Cycle Control — Fewer Starts, Cooler Motors, Safer Wells
Dry run damage often starts with rapid cycling. A too-small pressure tank forces the pump on and off constantly, building heat and chasing falling water. Right-size the tank volume to reduce cycles per day, especially for irrigation. As a rule of thumb, aim for at least one gallon of drawdown per GPM of pump capacity at your set pressure.
Luis originally had a tiny 20-gallon tank on a system delivering around 8–10 GPM. We upgraded to an 86-gallon tank with about 25 gallons of drawdown at 40/60 PSI, cutting cycles by two-thirds. The result: cooler operation and more stable pressure.
Set It Right: 40/60 with Proper Precharge
Set the tank’s air precharge to 38 PSI (for 40/60). Verify with a reliable gauge and adjust seasonally if needed. Incorrect precharge shortens bladder life and encourages cycling.
Cycle Stop Valves and Irrigation
For complex irrigation, a cycle stop valve stabilizes flow and pressure, letting a larger pump act smaller without on/off abuse. It’s a smart addition in systems where zones vary wildly.
Protecting Against Vacuum Conditions
When the tank is undersized and drawdown is rapid, the pump chases a vacuum as the well struggles. Add capacity, slow the cadence, and your well—and pump—stay in the safe zone.
Key takeaway: Bigger isn’t always better, but enough drawdown is non-negotiable. Cut cycles, cut heat, and you cut dry run risk to near zero.
#8. Installation Details That Matter — Drop Pipe, Check Valve Placement, and Pitless Adapter Seals
Good installs prevent dry run events caused by false readings or air ingestion. Use the right drop pipe (SCH 80 PVC or stainless in very deep wells), place a spring-loaded check valve at the pump discharge, and ensure the pitless adapter seals tight. Air leaks above the static water level mimic dry run conditions—your controller can’t tell the difference between air and an empty well.
The Mendoza job revealed a tired check valve 40 feet above the pump. We moved to a single high-quality check at the pump outlet and verified the pitless O-rings. Pressure stabilized instantly.
Check Valve Strategy
One at the pump is usually enough for residential systems up to 300 feet. Multiple checks can trap air and cause water hammer. Use a valve rated for vertical submersible service with a low cracking pressure.
Torque Arrestors and Cable Guards
Add a torque arrestor to prevent start-up twist from banging the casing, and use cable guards to protect wiring. Chafed cable leads to nuisance trips and can strand you at the worst time.
Sealing the System
A small leak on the suction side of a jet pump or at the pitless on a submersible’s discharge side invites air and false low-load conditions. Test with pressure, not hope.
Key takeaway: Tighten the hydraulic chain—valves, seals, pipe, and fittings matter as much as the pump when you’re preventing dry runs.
#9. Field-Serviceable Threaded Assembly — Fast Repairs Beat Full Replacements Every Time
Dry run scares leave scars. With Myers’ field serviceable design—built around a threaded assembly—you can rebuild instead of replace. Swap out a scarred wear ring, replace a couple of engineered composite impellers, clean the intake screen, and you’re back to spec without pulling out your wallet for a full new unit.
In my shop, I’ve turned around Predator Plus overhauls in under two hours. Contractors appreciate keeping customers in water the same day; homeowners appreciate not paying for an avoidable replacement.
Internal Check Valve and Service Access
An internal check valve simplifies the assembly. When you open the stack, you’re not fighting a maze of press fits. Precision threads mean repeated disassembly doesn’t deform mating surfaces.
Parts Availability Through PSAM
As a PSAM customer, you get fast parts, clear diagrams, and phone support that speaks pump, not call-center. When dry run events scratch your staging, we’ll help you order exactly what you need.
Predictable Downtime
Rebuildable systems make scheduling simple. If your pump trips protection and you find minor wear, you can plan a maintenance window—no emergency digging for a brand-new unit.
Key takeaway: Field serviceability turns dry-run aftermath into a service call, not a crisis. Myers builds for repair, and PSAM backs it with parts.
#10. Warranty, Certifications, and Real ROI — Myers’ 3-Year Coverage and Pentair Backing Are Dry Run Insurance You Can Bank On
Even with best practices, life happens. That’s why the Myers 3-year warranty matters. It outpaces typical 12–18 month coverage and reflects confidence in Made in USA builds, NSF, UL, and CSA certifications, and Pentair engineering. If a component fails prematurely, you’ve got coverage—and a supply chain that moves fast.
In the Mendoza project, we set realistic expectations: 8–15 years of service with routine maintenance, potentially 20+ years if the well remains stable and controls do their job. Their energy use dropped thanks to efficiency near BEP, and their maintenance plan is simple: annual pressure checks, pre-season controller tests, and a five-year impeller inspection.
Energy and Operating Cost
An efficient Predator Plus operating at BEP can trim power bills by up to 20% annually versus an oversized or off-curve unit. Lower amps, lower heat, longer life.
Documentation and Support
PSAM keeps your serials, curve selections, and parts list on file. When something changes—new irrigation zone, kitchen addition—we help you retune the system before it becomes a problem.
Long-Term Reliability
Properly protected units ride through brownouts and summer drawdowns. The goal is boring reliability—water on, pressure stable, no surprises.
Key takeaway: Warranty and engineering pedigree aren’t marketing fluff—they’re your safety net when the aquifer throws a curveball.
Focused Competitor Comparisons You Should Know
Compared to Goulds Pumps, which still deploy cast iron in certain assemblies vulnerable to acidic or high-mineral water, Myers’ across-the-board 300 series stainless steel construction resists corrosion and deformation under heat cycles. On thermal and abrasion events—exactly when dry run risk spikes—stainless holds geometry, preserving efficiency and head. In applications with seasonal drawdown and fines, that material advantage keeps your pump performing to curve. On installs I service, Goulds units exposed to low pH show pitting by year five, while stainless Myers wet ends remain smooth and in spec.
In the field, service paths diverge. Goulds’ component swaps often require more teardown time and specific service kits. Myers’ threaded assembly makes bench work faster, reducing downtime. Add Myers’ 3-year warranty and the Pentek XE motor protection, and lifetime cost drops. For homeowners dependent on wells, that reliability—especially under dry-run stress—makes Myers worth every single penny.
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Franklin Electric builds a strong submersible platform, but many Franklin systems lean on proprietary control boxes and dealer networks for resets and diagnostics. Myers Predator Plus supports 2-wire configuration options that simplify installs and reduce upfront control box cost by a couple hundred dollars, while still supporting robust dry-run protection through universal current-sensing controllers. When a well starves unexpectedly, a fast-acting protector paired with the Pentek XE motor’s thermal trip often means reset, not replacement.
From an ownership perspective, field-serviceable Myers stacks reduce parts-and-labor on grit wear or minor dry-run scuffs. Franklin gear is solid, yet access, parts, and dealer-only pathways can extend downtime. With PSAM stocking Myers pumps, parts, and support, your system gets back online faster. Under real farm-and-family usage, especially where water levels move seasonally, the Myers approach to control flexibility and serviceability is worth every single penny.
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Budget brands like Red Lion often rely on thermoplastic housings that can deform under pressure and heat cycles triggered by short cycling or dry-run incidents. When plastic sees high discharge temperatures—even briefly—threads can relax, and clearances change. Myers’ stainless steel shells maintain strength under those same conditions. And where low-cost motors lack consistent thermal overload protection, the Pentek XE motor trips predictably. Throw in an industry-leading 3-year warranty, and the math becomes obvious. Replacing a budget pump twice in a decade versus maintaining a Myers for 12–20 years? For families like the Mendozas who cannot afford downtime, Myers is worth every single penny.
Frequently Asked Questions 1) How do I determine the correct horsepower for my well depth and household water demand?
Start with your well’s numbers: total depth, static water level, and typical pumping level under load. Add vertical rise to your pressure tank, plus friction losses. That’s your TDH (total dynamic head). Next, estimate demand: most homes run well on 7–10 GPM; add irrigation zones if needed. Use pump curves to find a Myers Predator Plus Series model that delivers your GPM at that TDH near its BEP. For 100–180 feet pumping levels and 40/60 PSI, a 3/4 HP to 1 HP usually lands close. For deeper systems (200–350 feet), consider 1–1.5 HP with more stages. Oversizing horsepower can push high flow at low backpressure, increasing heat and dry run risk during drawdown. In the Mendozas’ 240-foot well (165-foot pumping level), we selected a 1 HP submersible delivering 10 GPM at operating head. PSAM can confirm your numbers and email the curve match—my recommendation is always to size for sustained summer conditions, not just shoulder season.
2) What GPM flow rate does a typical household need and how do multi-stage impellers affect pressure?
Most single-family homes run comfortably at 7–10 GPM, with 10–12 GPM supporting simultaneous showers, laundry, and a modest irrigation zone. Multi-stage pumps build pressure by stacking impellers—each stage adds head. That means a 10 GPM, 15-stage model might achieve a shut-off head near 400–490 feet depending on model, translating into solid 40/60 PSI performance even with deep water levels. The upside is stable pressure and lower amperage near BEP. If you choose a high-flow model with fewer stages in a deep well, you may see volume without pressure, inviting rapid cycling and heat. Myers staging lets you tune head for your depth; at the Mendozas’ site, the correct stage count held 58 PSI steady during peak use, avoiding the short cycles that precede dry-run incidents.
3) How does the Myers Predator Plus Series achieve 80% hydraulic efficiency compared to competitors?
Efficiency comes from tight internal geometry, engineered composite impellers, precise diffuser design, and minimal recirculation losses near BEP. Myers’ wet end uses Teflon-impregnated staging to reduce friction and wear, keeping clearances tight over time. Pair that with the Pentek XE motor, which holds a stable amperage draw under varying load, and you get high wire-to-water efficiency. Operating at or near BEP lowers heat and stress, which is critical in shallow-water episodes: lower system heat means more margin before thermal trip. In lab specs and field data, that 80%+ figure is realistic when the pump curve is matched to your TDH. In practice, expect a tangible drop in power usage—often 15–20% versus an off-curve or lower-grade pump—plus a cooler-running motor, https://www.plumbingsupplyandmore.com/plumbing-hvac-brand-categories/myers-pumps.html which is a direct hedge against dry-run damage.
4) Why is 300 series stainless steel superior to cast iron for submersible well pumps?
300 series stainless steel offers superior corrosion resistance, especially in mineral-heavy or slightly acidic wells. While cast iron can pit and lose mass over time, stainless maintains geometry—critical for impeller-diffuser clearances. During brief dry-run or high-temperature events, stainless resists distortion far better than soft thermoplastics or corroded iron. That stability preserves head pressure and keeps the motor in its designed amperage draw. Stainless also minimizes contamination risk and aligns with NSF expectations. I’ve pulled five-year-old cast iron pumps that looked 15 years old inside; I’ve pulled ten-year-old Myers stainless wet ends that cleaned up like new. When your well fluctuates seasonally, corrosion resistance isn’t cosmetic—it’s a performance and longevity necessity.
5) How do Teflon-impregnated self-lubricating impellers resist sand and grit damage?
Teflon-impregnated staging lowers the coefficient of friction at the surface, reducing heat and scuffing when lubrication (water) is compromised. The engineered composite resists micro-grooving from fines, preserving the impeller edge profile and diffuser shape—key to maintaining GPM rating and head. In dry-run-adjacent episodes, water can turn silt-laden; these materials hold up, keeping the pump from “eating itself.” Reduced abrasion also means the pump stays closer to its original pump curve over time, not sliding into lower efficiency and higher amps. In the Mendozas’ basalt aquifer, seasonal fines appear after neighbors irrigate heavily; their Predator Plus retained smooth, quiet operation thanks to this exact materials choice.
6) What makes the Pentek XE high-thrust motor more efficient than standard well pump motors?
The Pentek XE motor integrates high-thrust bearings, optimized winding design, and robust thermal overload protection. It’s engineered for continuous duty with efficient conversion of electrical input to mechanical output, keeping amperage draw predictable under varying head. High-thrust capability handles the axial loading of a multi-stage pump without friction spikes. The thermal trip curve is deliberate—fast enough to protect windings during dry-run events but calibrated to avoid nuisance trips. Lightning and surge resilience reduce failures common on rural lines. In side-by-side metering, XE motors routinely run cooler at the same head and GPM compared to generic motors. Cooler motors mean more margin before a dry-run-induced overheat, which translates to life.
7) Can I install a Myers submersible pump myself or do I need a licensed contractor?
A handy homeowner can install a Myers submersible well pump with the right tools and caution: proper drop pipe, pitless adapter, wire splice kit, torque arrestor, check valve, and lifting equipment. You’ll need to calculate TDH, select wire gauge for run length, set the pressure switch and tank precharge correctly, and integrate a dry-run controller. If your well is over 200 feet or your system includes irrigation zones and complex valving, I recommend a licensed contractor—mistakes at depth are expensive. PSAM provides kits, curves, and phone support. The Mendozas partnered with a local installer for the heavy lift and used our checklist for pressure settings and controller programming. If in doubt, hire the set-and-seal steps and handle the tank and switch work yourself.
8) What’s the difference between 2-wire and 3-wire well pump configurations?
A 2-wire configuration houses start components in the motor. It simplifies installation, often lowers upfront cost, and works well with external dry-run controllers. A 3-wire configuration uses an external control box containing capacitors and a relay—great for serviceability because you can swap components without pulling the pump. For 1/2 HP to 1 HP residential systems at 230V, 2-wire is a clean, reliable choice. For deeper wells, higher horsepower (1.5–2 HP), or when service access matters, 3-wire provides more control options. Both can be equally protected from dry run when paired with the right controller. Choose based on depth, service preferences, and budget.
9) How long should I expect a Myers Predator Plus pump to last with proper maintenance?
With correct sizing, control protection, and normal water quality, expect 8–15 years. In stable wells with seasonal checks and gentle cycling, 20–30 years is achievable—I’ve seen it. Key factors: run the pump near BEP, limit starts with an adequately sized pressure tank, and verify pressure switch and dry-run controller operation annually. If your aquifer carries fines, a five-year inspection of impellers and wear rings is a smart investment. The Mendozas’ maintenance plan is simple: spring precharge check, controller test, and a quick amp-draw validation at a hose bib load. That’s what keeps a pump out of the failure cycle.
10) What maintenance tasks extend well pump lifespan and how often should they be performed?
Annually: check air precharge (2 PSI below cut-in), verify pressure switch cut-in/cut-out, test dry-run controller trip/reset, and inspect visible plumbing for leaks. Every 3–5 years: assess amp draw under flow, confirm flow against the original GPM rating, and pull the well cap to inspect wiring strain relief and safety rope. If water chemistry is aggressive, consider a biennial inspection of internal components. Irrigation-heavy properties benefit from a cycle count review—install a counter or smart controller. Fewer starts equals cooler operation. Keep good records; trendlines catch issues long before failure.
11) How does Myers’ 3-year warranty compare to competitors and what does it cover?
Myers’ industry-leading 3-year warranty outpaces many brands that offer 12–18 months. It covers manufacturing defects and performance issues under normal use. Pair that with Pentair backing and PSAM’s documentation and you’ve got a responsive path to resolution. While no warranty covers abuse or prolonged dry-run operation, Myers’ protection and materials give you a larger safety margin before damage occurs. In my experience, the combination of stainless wet ends, Pentek XE motor protection, and real parts availability translates into fewer claims and faster turnaround when claims do occur. Bottom line: you’re not left holding the bag after year one.
12) What’s the total cost of ownership over 10 years: Myers vs budget pump brands?
When you tally energy, service calls, and replacements, Myers wins handily. A properly sized Predator Plus operating near BEP typically cuts power usage by 15–20% and avoids the 3–5 year failure cycle common with budget units. Assume one rebuild of staging and a controller check in a decade vs. two full replacements for a low-cost pump pushed hard. Add in Myers’ 3-year warranty vs. 12 months, and you’ve reduced risk while extending service life. For families like the Mendozas, the real value is uptime: reliable water through summer drawdowns without panic calls. That’s why I recommend Myers through PSAM—because reliable beats cheap every single time.
Conclusion: Dry Run Avoidance Isn’t Luck—It’s System Design
Dry run damage is preventable. Start with a Myers Predator Plus matched to your TDH and demand. Lean on Pentek XE motor protection, Teflon-impregnated staging, and 300 series stainless steel construction to ride out the unexpected. Build smart controls—proper pressure tank, correctly set pressure switch, and a dry-run protector that trips fast and resets smart. Install for reality—tight pitless adapter, quality check valve, protected cable, and the right drop pipe. Then maintain the system with a simple annual checklist.
Luis and Renee Mendoza went from “no water, no plan” to a steady 10 GPM at 58 PSI, even during August drawdown, with one Myers upgrade and a few smart accessories. Their pump runs cooler, cycles less, and has a real safety net. That’s what I want for every PSAM customer.
If you’re ready to size it right, protect it right, and forget about dry-run emergencies, call PSAM. We’ll match a Myers to your well, ship fast, and make sure your family’s water is as reliable as sunrise. Myers is the pump I trust in my own field kit—and the one that keeps my phone quiet on Sunday mornings.