Can the Simple Pump work if I only have a little water in my well?

The Simple Pump can work in wells with limited water, but a small buffer and low recovery rate require careful planning. Verify water levels and recovery rates before installation.

Simple Pump Team
9/18/2025
3 min read

If your well has limited water volume or slow recovery, Simple Pump can still work effectively with proper configuration.

Understanding "Little Water"

Low Yield Well

  • Well produces water slowly
  • Limited gallons per minute
  • Takes time to recover after pumping
  • Also called "slow recovery"

Low Standing Water

  • Small distance between water level and well bottom
  • Limited water column
  • May indicate shallow aquifer

Simple Pump Advantages for Low Water Wells

Slow Pumping Rate

Hand pumping naturally suits low yield wells:

  • You pump at the rate water is available
  • No risk of "pumping dry" like electric pumps
  • Feel when water becomes scarce
  • Adjustable to well's recovery rate

Smaller Cylinder Option

The 100CA cylinder is ideal:

  • Lowest volume per stroke (4.5 oz)
  • Less demand on available water
  • Works at maximum depths
  • Manageable effort

Configuration Recommendations

Cylinder Placement

Position cylinder as deep as possible:

  • More water column above cylinder
  • Buffer for drawdown
  • Better performance during pumping

Submergence Depth

For low water wells:

  • Standard: 15-25 feet below water
  • Low yield: 25-50+ feet if well allows
  • Deeper is better when possible

Pumping Strategies

Session Pumping

  • Pump in shorter sessions
  • Allow well to recover between sessions
  • Accumulate water in storage tank
  • Don't try to pump continuously

Storage Tank Approach

  1. Install storage tank (pressure or atmospheric)
  2. Pump into tank during recovery periods
  3. Use water from tank as needed
  4. Refill tank when well recovers

Monitoring Water Level

Watch for signs of low water:

  • Air mixing with water
  • Reduced output per stroke
  • Pump "feels light"
  • Stop and let well recover

Motor Operation Cautions

If using motor on low yield well:

Protection Required

  • Float switch - Prevents pumping when water low
  • Timer - Limits pump runtime
  • Monitoring - Check operation regularly

Avoid Dry Running

Extended dry running can:

  • Wear seals prematurely
  • Reduce efficiency
  • Potentially damage components

What We Need for Your Quote

For low water wells, provide:

  • Static water level
  • Total well depth
  • Distance from water to bottom (if known)
  • Known or estimated yield (GPM if available)
  • Daily water needs

Realistic Expectations

Hand Pumping

With low yield, expect:

  • Multiple pumping sessions daily
  • Time for well recovery
  • Variable output depending on conditions
  • Some effort, but reliable water

Motorized with Care

Motor can work if:

  • Proper protection installed
  • Runtime limited
  • Well recovery respected
  • Regular monitoring performed

Alternative: Shallow Well Suction Pump

If water is within 25 feet of surface:

We Can Help

Low yield wells require careful configuration. Contact us with your well details:

  • We'll recommend appropriate setup
  • Cylinder and depth planning
  • Pumping strategy advice

Technical Support: 877-492-8711 ext. 6

Request a Quote

Need More Help?

Our technical support team is here to help with any questions about your Simple Pump system.