Quick Answer
A submersible well pump typically requires 10 to 15 times its running watts for the starting surge, which can range from 240 to 360 starting watts for a 240V system.
Understanding the Starting Surge for a Submersible Well Pump
The starting surge for a submersible well pump is a crucial consideration when selecting a generator to power it. This surge is the temporary increase in power required to get the pump started. It’s essential to calculate this surge to ensure the generator can handle it, as an underpowered generator can fail to start the pump or cause it to strain the system.
Calculating the Starting Surge
To calculate the starting surge, you’ll need to know the running watts of the pump. A typical submersible well pump requires around 2 to 5 amps at 240V, which translates to 480 to 1200 running watts. Multiply these running watts by 10 to 15 to get the starting surge. For example, if the pump requires 1200 running watts, the starting surge would be 1200 x 12 = 14400 watts. This is the minimum wattage your generator should be able to handle.
Generator Selection
When selecting a generator for a submersible well pump, look for one that can deliver the calculated starting surge. A 240V generator with a minimum wattage of 14400 watts (based on the example above) is a good starting point. Some generators come with built-in surge capacity, so be sure to check the specifications. Additionally, consider the pump’s inrush current, which can be 2 to 5 times the running current. A higher-wattage generator will provide a margin of safety and ensure reliable operation.
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