Reliable well water isn’t optional—it’s the backbone of a home. When a pump stumbles, life grinds to a halt: showers go cold, dishes stack up, and livestock go thirsty. I’ve been on more late-night calls than I can count where a bad install or a mismatched pump turned into an emergency. One constant? The systems that run year after year were sized with math, not guesses, and the pumps were built to handle real-world conditions—sand, seasonal drawdown, and voltage swings.
Meet the Ogunyemi family—Obi (39), a high school math teacher; his partner, Remi (37), a nurse; and their kids, Tobi (10) and Feyi (7). They live on five acres outside Corvallis, Oregon, pulling water from a 285-foot private well. Their previous 1 HP budget submersible from a big-box brand didn’t just underperform; it failed twice in four years. The final blow came on a Sunday evening: zero pressure, a burnt motor, and a plastic stage stack chewed up by grit. Panic set in—Monday morning showers were off the table. After a quick call to PSAM, we looked at the well logs, house demand, and—most importantly—their NPSH realities and total dynamic head. The solution: a Myers Predator Plus Series 1.5 HP, 10 GPM profile with a Pentek XE high-thrust motor and 300 series stainless steel construction.
This list will show you the critical system variables—from NPSH and staging to wire configuration and warranty—that separate a problem-free installation from a revolving door of failures. We’ll cover stainless steel vs cast iron, Pentek XE motor advantages, 2-wire vs 3-wire decisions, pump curve reading, TDH and BEP matching, grit resistance, myers deep well water pump field serviceability, and installation best practices. Whether you’re a rural homeowner under pressure or a contractor who lives by the spec sheet, here’s the path to a system that just works.
Awards and achievements matter when water is on the line. Myers Predator Plus Series delivers 80%+ hydraulic efficiency near BEP, an industry-leading 3-year warranty, and Made-in-USA quality backed by Pentair engineering, with NSF/UL/CSA certifications and same-day shipping on in-stock models from PSAM. I’m Rick Callahan, PSAM’s technical advisor. After decades in the field—sizing wells, pulling pumps, troubleshooting short-cycling, and rebuilding systems—I’ve learned where corners can’t be cut. My “Rick’s Picks” exist for one reason: to keep you out of the failure loop.
Let’s get your water right the first time.
#1. NPSH Basics Done Right – Protecting Your Myers Submersible Well Pump with Realistic Suction Conditions
Good pumps don’t fail from magic—they fail from physics. Net Positive Suction Head (NPSH) determines whether your pump will cavitate, overheat, and die prematurely. In submersible wells, the pump is below the water column, so available NPSH (NPSHa) is naturally high. However, low water levels, sand intrusion, and undersized intake screens can reduce NPSHa and eat into performance.
The Predator Plus’s hydraulic design, combined with a Pentek XE motor and engineered composite impellers, maintains reliable operation across drawdown ranges. Generous intake screens and optimized eye geometry reduce velocity at the suction, helping the pump maintain NPSHa margin even as water levels fluctuate. Match the pump curve to your well’s drawdown and you’ll avoid the micro-cavitation that erodes efficiency and shortens life.
For the Ogunyemis, the well’s static level sits at 95 feet, with a worst-case pumping level around 210 feet during late summer. We sized their multi-stage pump to operate within its best efficiency point (BEP) at a 240–260 foot TDH, preserving NPSH margin during seasonal lows.
NPSH Margin and Drawdown
NPSHa in submersibles comes from the water column height above the pump. If your well draws down 40–80 feet during heavy use, you lose margin quickly. A properly staged Predator Plus Series handles moderate drawdown without cavitation due to its inlet geometry and stacked impeller design. Pro tip: set your pump intake at least 10–20 feet above the well bottom to minimize sand ingestion and maintain NPSHa margin.
Intake Velocity and Screen Area
Excessive inlet velocity can vaporize water locally. Myers uses enlarged intake screen area to reduce face velocity, and the threaded assembly makes screen service straightforward. Periodic inspection of the intake for iron bacteria film or debris keeps NPSHa usable and prevents starving the first stage.
Control Strategy and NPSH
Short-cycling and quick flow changes stress NPSH. A correctly sized pressure tank with proper pressure switch differential (typical 40/60 PSI) stabilizes flow. If you irrigate, consider a booster pump for zone control above grade—let the well pump run steady-state near BEP.
Key takeaway: NPSH isn’t a guessing game. Size to BEP, manage drawdown, and protect your intake—your Myers will reward you with quiet, efficient years.
#2. Stainless Where It Counts – 300 Series Stainless Steel vs Corrosion and Mineral-Rich Water
Corrosion is silent, relentless, and expensive. In mineral-rich or acidic wells, cast iron corrodes and thermoplastics deform, taking bearings and stages down with them. Myers Predator Plus builds the shell, discharge bowl, shaft, coupling, wear ring, and suction screen out of 300 series stainless steel, all lead-free, to stand up to aggressive water and pressure cycling.
Stainless steel parts hold tolerances under heat and stress, which keeps impellers aligned and stage clearances tight. That’s how you maintain 80%+ hydraulic efficiency near BEP and avoid the power creep that hammers your electric bill. It’s also why the Myers 3-year warranty is meaningful—they engineered the metallurgy to last.
The Ogunyemis had high iron content (0.8–1.2 ppm) with seasonal pH dropping to 6.6. Their previous pump’s cast-iron wear surfaces pitted, then chewed the impellers. The stainless Myers unit has now run cleanly through two irrigation seasons and a wet winter.
Material Science in the Well
Electrochemical corrosion accelerates when dissimilar metals live in hard or acidic water. Uniform stainless build reduces galvanic potential. Pair with stainless drop pipe or dielectric unions to keep the system chemistry friendly.
Heat, Pressure, and Dimensional Stability
Thermal expansion during pressure cycles can loosen tolerances in thermoplastics. Myers’s stainless bowls and discharge maintain concentricity under thermal swings, protecting the nitrile rubber bearings and engineered composite impellers. Result: less vibration, longer life.
Maintenance that Matters
Annual checks: pull a sample for pH and iron, flush the intake screen, and inspect voltage. Stainless buys you margin, but good housekeeping guarantees longevity. At PSAM, we carry stainless fittings kits to keep the metals match consistent.
Key takeaway: in tough water, stainless isn’t a luxury—it’s the lock on your investment.
#3. Pentek XE High-Thrust Motor – Quiet Torque, Lower Amps, and Lightning Protection You Can Count On
Torque at startup and stability at load separate quality motors from pretenders. The Pentek XE motor behind Myers Predator Plus delivers high-thrust bearings, efficient winding design, and thermal overload protection with built-in lightning protection. That combination drops amperage draw, reduces heat, and keeps thrust loads under control across the full stage stack.
Why it matters: multi-stage submersibles need axial thrust control. Under-thrusted motors fatigue quickly; you’ll hear it as vibration, then feel it in the wallet. The XE motor maintains alignment so the self-lubricating impellers run true. Efficiency gains translate to 10–20% lower operating costs when you stay near BEP.
Obi noticed immediately: with the Myers 1.5 HP, 230V, the startup was smooth and pressure stable. Even with the washer, a shower, and irrigation drip lines running, the amperage stayed in spec and the motor ran cool.
Electrical Integrity and Protection
Voltage sag on rural lines is common. The XE’s design tolerates modest fluctuations, and thermal protection shuts down safely under overload. Add a surge protector at the service panel; protection is cheap compared to a pull.
Sizing Motor to Stages
Over-staging on a small motor invites failure. Myers publishes matched stage/motor combinations per pump curve. Follow them. For the Ogunyemis’ 285-foot well and 10–12 GPM demand, a 1.5 HP with ~13–15 stages kept the duty point centered.
Noise and Vibration Control
Quiet pumps live longer. The XE motor’s thrust bearing stack and balanced rotor damp harmonics. Pair with a torque arrestor and centered drop pipe to keep the column from twisting on startup.
Key takeaway: the best hydraulics are wasted without a motor that can carry the load quietly for years.
#4. The Efficiency Sweet Spot – Hitting BEP on the Pump Curve to Cut Energy Bills 20%
Pick the right point on the pump curve, and you’ll get a silent, efficient system. Miss it, and you’ll pay monthly for the mistake. Every submersible well pump has a best efficiency point (BEP)—usually where hydraulic efficiency peaks. At BEP, amperage is lower, heat is reduced, NPSH margin is healthy, and the motor lives longer.
We calculated the Ogunyemis’ TDH (total dynamic head) at 245–265 feet, including elevation, friction loss in 1-inch line at 10 GPM, and a 50–60 PSI delivery target. The Myers Predator Plus curve at 10 GPM intersects that TDH near BEP, so we captured the efficiency savings and reduced monthly costs.
TDH Math You Can Trust
TDH = Static lift + drawdown + friction losses + desired pressure (converted to feet: PSI x 2.31). Be honest with friction; long runs and elbows add up fast. PSAM’s pump sizing sheets walk you through the numbers.
GPM and Stage Matching
Don’t chase maximum flow; hit the duty point. Myers’ multi-stage pump profiles give you 7–8 GPM, 10 GPM, and 20+ GPM options, each with different stages. For most 3–4 person households, 8–12 GPM is plenty, especially with a properly sized pressure tank.
Energy and Heat
Efficiency isn’t just bills—it’s heat management. Pumps that run off-BEP cook the motor. The Pentek XE keeps heat in check at BEP, stretching lifespan into that 8–15-year expectation, with 20+ years achievable under ideal care.
Key takeaway: aim for BEP. It’s the shortest path to quiet, lower-cost water.
#5. Teflon-Impregnated Staging – Grit Resistance That Saves Real Money
Sand and silt will tell you the truth about your pump’s internals. Myers’ Teflon-impregnated staging and self-lubricating impellers resist abrasion and keep clearances stable even with intermittent grit. That’s critical for wells with seasonal turbidity or near-river aquifers.
Engineered composite impellers distribute wear evenly and slide under boundary lubrication, reducing abrasive scoring. Combined with tight-tolerance nitrile rubber bearings and a stainless wear ring, the hydraulic stack keeps performance stable. Your pressure gauge will stop “hunting,” and your motor won’t overwork to compensate for worn stages.
When the Ogunyemis’ well went cloudy after a heavy rain, pressure stayed consistent. Their old pump had lost 15–20% of performance after similar events; the Myers Predator Plus didn’t flinch.
Screening and Set-Depth Strategy
A deeper set can stir sediment. Myers’ broader intake screen helps, but consider raising the pump 10–15 feet if you see recurring grit. An inline spin-down sediment filter after the tank can also protect fixtures without choking the pump.
Grit and Impeller Geometry
Closed impellers with engineered edge profiles reduce particle impact angles. The Myers composite blade profile is designed to slide particles past, not smash them head-on, which is how stage stacks survive minor sand events.
Monitoring Wear
Watch amperage and flow over time. If amps creep up and flow drops, you’re accumulating wear or clogging. Schedule a pull with a contractor; Myers’ field serviceable threaded assembly keeps repair labor reasonable.
Key takeaway: grit happens. Myers staging turns “pump-eating sand” into a non-event.
#6. The Control Decision – 2-Wire vs 3-Wire Myers Pumps and When Each Makes Sense
The 2-wire vs 3-wire debate isn’t about right or wrong—it’s about context. Myers offers both 2-wire well pump and 3-wire well pump configurations. Here’s the distilled guidance.
A 2-wire configuration houses the start components inside the motor. Advantages: simpler installation, fewer failure points at the surface, and no control box expense. It’s a clean choice for typical residential wells up to 1–1.5 HP, 230V.
A 3-wire configuration uses an external control box for the start capacitor and relay. Advantages: easier surface diagnostics and component replacement without pulling the pump. This shines for heavier loads, marginal power, or systems where diagnostics matter, such as light commercial or irrigation-heavy properties.
The Ogunyemis chose a 2-wire 1.5 HP package for simplicity and speed. With PSAM’s in-stock pump and wire splice kit, we had them back to normal the next day.
Voltage, Distance, and Wire Gauge
Long runs from panel to wellhead drop voltage. Check amp draw and voltage at load. For 230V 1.5 HP, size wire per code and manufacture tables to keep voltage drop under 5%. PSAM can spec the gauge based on your run length.
Serviceability Trade-Offs
A 3-wire’s control box can be replaced in minutes; a 2-wire requires a pull if internal start components fail. That said, modern Myers motors with protected windings and surge resilience fail less often. Choose based on your tolerance for surface diagnostics vs install simplicity.
Pressure Switch and Tank Tuning
Regardless of wire configuration, set your pressure switch with adequate differential (20 PSI typical), and pair a correctly sized pressure tank (at least one minute of runtime at draw). Short-cycling kills motors.
Key takeaway: pick the wire configuration that aligns with your maintenance preferences and site conditions—Myers has you covered both ways.
#7. Real Sizing, Real Curves – Using TDH, GPM, and Staging to Nail Your Myers Selection
I’ve seen more failures from bad sizing than bad pumps. Start with load. Most homes need 8–12 GPM for comfort. Add irrigation? Budget another 5–10 GPM depending on zones. Then calculate TDH and choose the stages that land you near BEP.
For the Ogunyemis: 2.5 baths, laundry, dishwasher, and seasonal drip irrigation. Demand target: 10–12 GPM. TDH: ~255 feet. The Myers Predator Plus 1.5 HP, 10 GPM curve intersects that duty point mid-curve with headroom to maintain pressure even as the intake screen loads slightly between maintenance.
Friction Losses Are Real
At 10 GPM through 1-inch pipe, friction is roughly 2–3 PSI per 100 feet, plus losses across elbows and valves. Use PSAM’s friction charts or our online calculator. Don’t cheat the math—your motor will notice.
Shut-Off Head and Margin
Myers lists shut-off head (e.g., 250–490 ft depending on model). You want your duty point comfortably below shut-off. If your system pressure creeps near shut-off, throttling and heat go up. Choose a pump that “cruises” at duty, not one that white-knuckles to get there.
Discharge Size and System Components
Common submersible discharge is 1-1/4" NPT. Use a pitless adapter rated for your depth, add a check valve at the pump (Myers uses an internal check—verify per model), and install a second spring check topside if line length is long or vertical rise is significant.
Key takeaway: use the curve, not your gut. Myers publishes excellent curves—lean on them.
#8. Field-Serviceable Threaded Assembly – Keep Repairs on the Ground, Not Down the Hole
Things break. What matters is how long the fix takes and how much it costs. Myers’ field serviceable threaded assembly means impellers and diffusers can be serviced without scrapping the whole pump. Contractors love this because it turns a full replacement into a rebuild when appropriate.
The threaded stack also improves alignment during assembly and service. Combined with consistent factory testing and UL listed/ CSA certified components, you’re getting a pump designed for real-world wrench time—not just lab conditions.
When a small branch of the Ogunyemi system developed water hammer due to a failing topside check, the pump rode through the event without damage. If service is ever needed, we can rebuild the hydraulic end and keep their trusted Pentek XE motor.
Parts Availability and PSAM Support
PSAM stocks Predator Plus kits, seals, and wear parts. If you’re a contractor, we can bundle drop pipe, wire splice kits, and fittings kits to streamline your truck rolls. For DIYers, we provide step-by-step guides and phone support.
Threaded vs Crimped
Threaded stage stacks can be opened without special presses. That’s time and money saved, especially in rural areas where dealer networks are sparse. It’s one reason Myers is a go-to in my “Rick’s Picks.”
Warranty and Repair Decisions
With a 3-year warranty, many issues are handled at minimal cost. Out of warranty, rebuild decisions depend on stage wear vs motor life. The Myers platform keeps options open.
Key takeaway: serviceability is part of reliability. Myers designs for both.
#9. Protection That Pays – The 3-Year Warranty and How It Lowers Total Ownership Cost
A warranty is only as good as the company behind it. Myers, backed by Pentair, offers an industry-leading 3-year warranty that covers manufacturing defects and performance issues. That’s double—or more—what many competitors offer, and it brings real dollars back over the service life.
Beyond paper, the warranty reflects confidence in the 300 series stainless steel build, Teflon-impregnated staging, and Pentek XE motor. In practical terms, you get coverage through the early life cycle where infant mortality shows up in lesser brands. Fewer panic calls, fewer pulls, more uptime.
Obi appreciated the peace of mind. With young kids and two demanding jobs, he wasn’t interested in rolling the dice on budget. The warranty sealed the decision.
What’s Covered, What’s Smart
Warranty covers manufacturing defects—not installation mistakes. Use a torque arrestor, proper wire gauge, and a correctly sized pressure tank. Keep records of pressure switch settings and amperage—it helps with claims and diagnostics.
Extended Lifespan by Design
Most failures I see within three years relate to poor staging selection or electrical issues. Myers’ efficient hydraulics and motor protection features sidestep many early-life pitfalls, converting warranty from a marketing line into an actual safety net.
PSAM Support and Turnaround
We process claims quickly, stock replacements, and ship same day on in-stock items. Water downtime is costly; we act like it.
Key takeaway: a real warranty plus real engineering equals real savings over a decade.
#10. Installation Best Practices – The Checklist That Keeps Your Myers Pump in Service for Decades
Even the best Myers submersible well pump needs a thoughtful install. Do it right once, and you won’t be revisiting the pitless when it’s 18°F and windy.
For the Ogunyemis, we used stainless drop pipe, a quality pitless adapter, double-crimp heat-shrink wire splice kit, centered the column with a torque arrestor, and set the pump 20 feet off the bottom. The pressure switch set at 40/60 paired with an 86-gallon tank keeps runtime above 60 seconds.
Electrical and Surge Protection
Use a dedicated 2-pole breaker sized per motor plate amps, and verify voltage at load. Add a surge protector. Grounding is non-negotiable. Long runs? Up the wire gauge to minimize drop.
Hydraulics and Air Volume
Right-size the tank to your draw. Aim for one minute of runtime to protect the motor and stabilize the system. If you’re feeding irrigation, consider a separate booster pump above grade and let the well pump do what it does best—supply.
Seasonal and Environmental Considerations
In freezing climates, ensure the pitless and lateral are below frost, and insulate where needed. In sandy aquifers, elevate the set depth and schedule annual intake checks. Keep the well cap sealed to block insects and contaminants.
Key takeaway: good parts plus smart practices equals a system you won’t think about—exactly how water should be.
Comparison Spotlight: Myers vs Goulds and Franklin Electric (Detailed Analysis)
Technical performance: Myers Predator Plus relies on a full 300 series stainless steel construction across shell, discharge bowl, shaft, and wear components, paired with Teflon-impregnated staging and a Pentek XE motor. This configuration delivers 80%+ hydraulic efficiency near BEP, superior corrosion resistance, and robust thrust handling. By contrast, some Goulds models incorporate cast iron components in submersible assemblies, which are prone to pitting in acidic or high-iron water, increasing stage wear. Franklin Electric’s submersibles often pair well with their proprietary control systems, but their dealer-centric ecosystem can complicate field service compared to Myers’ open, threaded design.
Real-world application: In well systems with seasonal drawdown or grit, Myers’ self-lubricating composite impellers and enlarged intake screens reduce cavitation risk and abrasion. Field service is simpler thanks to the threaded stage stack—contractors can repair hydraulics on-site without replacing the entire unit. With Franklin, proprietary control boxes can add cost and delay; with Goulds, corrosion in harsh water can shorten service life. Across rural installs, that translates to fewer service calls and steadier pressure under mixed household and irrigation loads.
Value proposition: For homeowners who depend on private wells, Myers’ stainless build, XE motor efficiency, and PSAM’s fast shipping and support deliver lower lifetime costs and fewer emergencies—worth every single penny.
Comparison Spotlight: Myers vs Red Lion and Grundfos (Detailed Analysis)
Technical performance: Myers’ stainless steel shells resist thermal cycling and pressure fluctuations, while engineered composite impellers with Teflon impregnation shrug off minor grit. The Pentek XE motor’s high-thrust bearings keep axial loads in check on high-stage builds. Red Lion’s thermoplastic housings, while economical, can deform or crack under repeated hot/cold pressure cycles; Grundfos, a premium brand, often leans on more complex 3-wire configuration and control systems that raise upfront costs and complicate DIY installs.
Real-world application: In emergency replacements, Myers’ 2-wire options simplify installation, often saving $200–$400 on control boxes versus some Grundfos configurations. In moderate-to-deep residential wells, Myers maintains 8–15 years of service life with proper maintenance, while plastic-bodied pumps frequently bow out at 3–5 years, particularly under seasonal irrigation loads. Contractors appreciate Myers’ field serviceable threaded assembly for fast on-site repairs; homeowners appreciate the quiet, consistent pressure.
Value proposition: When continuous duty, steady pressure, and quick service matter, Myers provides professional-grade reliability without the complexity or fragility risks—worth every single penny.
Comparison Spotlight: Why Myers Wins the Decade—Warranty, Serviceability, Energy
Technical performance: Myers combines 80%+ hydraulic efficiency, stainless wear surfaces, and thermal protected motors to control heat and maintain clearances. That trims amperage at the duty point and reduces cumulative thermal stress. Budget pumps often sacrifice material integrity and bearing quality, limiting lifespan and raising power draw as components wear.
Real-world application: Over 10 years, emergency pulls and stopgap replacements cost more than a single correctly sized Myers. The 3-year warranty beats common 12–18 month coverage and aligns with the period where early-life failures occur. Serviceable design means rebuilds are viable; you aren’t trapped in the replace-or suffer cycle.
Value proposition: Add PSAM’s same-day shipping, stocked parts, and sizing support, and you’re buying uptime, not headaches—worth every single penny.
FAQ: Myers Water Pump, NPSH, and System Design
1) How do I determine the correct horsepower for my well depth and household water demand?
Start with demand (GPM), then calculate TDH. A typical household needs 8–12 GPM; add irrigation zones if they’ll overlap. TDH equals static lift + drawdown + friction losses + delivery pressure (PSI x 2.31). Compare your TDH and GPM point to Myers Predator Plus pump curves. For example, a 250-foot TDH at 10 GPM often points to a 1–1.5 HP Myers, depending on friction and pipe size. If your duty point sits near the middle of a curve, you’re likely near BEP—the efficiency sweet spot. Rick’s recommendation: don’t oversize horsepower “just in case.” That can push flow off-curve and cause heat. PSAM can run your numbers and match you to a 1/2 HP, 3/4 HP, 1 HP, 1.5 HP, or 2 HP Myers with the right stages and 115V/230V configuration to hit your pressure targets without wasting energy.
2) What GPM flow rate does a typical household need and how do multi-stage impellers affect pressure?
Most households run comfortably on 8–12 GPM. Big tubs and multi-shower homes may want 12–15 GPM. Multi-stage impellers add head (pressure) by stacking stages—each stage contributes a fixed head at a given flow. Myers’ Predator Plus offers 7–8 GPM, 10 GPM, and 20+ GPM performance ranges across different stage counts. At 10 GPM, a properly staged 1–1.5 HP submersible can deliver 40–60 PSI after accounting for elevation and friction. The more stages, the more head you can produce at a given GPM, but staging must match TDH. Rick’s recommendation: choose a pump that meets your flow while landing near BEP. It runs cooler, draws fewer amps, and maintains steady pressure.
3) How does the Myers Predator Plus Series achieve 80% hydraulic efficiency compared to competitors?
Efficiency comes from precise hydraulics and materials. Myers uses engineered composite impellers with Teflon impregnation, tight stage clearances, and a 300 series stainless steel structure that stays dimensionally stable under pressure and heat. The Pentek XE motor complements the hydraulics with high-thrust bearings and efficient windings, keeping electrical losses low. Near BEP, the system moves more water per watt. For a 10 GPM duty at ~250 feet TDH, many Predator Plus models operate with lower amperage than similarly rated pumps. Rick’s recommendation: read the curve and check efficiency bands; myers pump parts operating near BEP is how you unlock the published 80%+ performance.
4) Why is 300 series stainless steel superior to cast iron for submersible well pumps?
Submersibles live in chemistry class. Acidic water, dissolved oxygen, and minerals attack cast iron, leading to pitting and rust that erodes impeller clearances. 300 series stainless steel resists corrosion, maintains tight tolerances, and handles thermal expansion during pressure cycles. That keeps nitrile rubber bearings aligned and impeller edges crisp, preserving efficiency. In wells with iron bacteria or low pH (6.5–7.0), stainless extends service life dramatically compared to cast iron or thermoplastic bowls. Rick’s recommendation: if your water test shows iron above 0.3 ppm or pH below 7.0, stainless isn’t optional—it’s your lifespan insurance.
5) How do Teflon-impregnated self-lubricating impellers resist sand and grit damage?
Grit acts like sandpaper. Myers’ Teflon-impregnated staging creates a lubricious surface film that reduces friction and abrasion when particles pass through. The engineered composite impeller edges are shaped to slide particles past the vane rather than smashing them. Combined with stainless wear rings, the stack resists scoring and holds performance longer. In real terms, you’ll see less pressure drop after storms or heavy drawdowns. Rick’s recommendation: if you see seasonal turbidity, raise the pump 10–20 feet from bottom and add a spin-down filter after the tank to keep grit out of fixtures.
6) What makes the Pentek XE high-thrust motor more efficient than standard well pump motors?
The Pentek XE motor uses high-thrust bearings to manage axial loads from multi-stage stacks, efficient copper windings to reduce electrical losses, and integrated thermal overload protection with lightning protection. Reduced friction in the thrust assembly means less heat, while better windings mean fewer watts per gallon moved. That combination keeps amps down at the duty point and extends bearing life. Rick’s recommendation: pair the motor with accurate staging per the pump curve; an efficient motor can’t save you from bad hydraulic matching.
7) Can I install a Myers submersible pump myself or do I need a licensed contractor?
Capable DIYers can install a Myers with the right tools and a plan. You’ll need proper rigging to lower the pump, a wire splice kit with heat-shrink, a pitless adapter, a torque arrestor, and a check valve strategy. Electrical work requires adherence to code, proper wire gauge, grounding, and a pressure switch setup matched to your tank size. That said, deep wells (200–500 feet), long electrical runs, or any uncertainty around TDH and staging are good reasons to bring in a licensed contractor. PSAM supports both paths: we supply install kits and phone guidance for DIY and volume support for pros. Rick’s recommendation: if water is mission-critical (livestock, rental units), hire a pro; downtime is pricier than labor.
8) What’s the difference between 2-wire and 3-wire well pump configurations?
A 2-wire configuration contains the start components in the motor—simpler wiring and no external control box. It’s popular for residential systems up to 1–1.5 HP at 230V. A 3-wire configuration uses a surface control box for the start capacitor and relay, allowing easier surface diagnostics and component replacement. Both work; choose based on service preferences and system complexity. Rick’s recommendation: for straightforward home systems, 2-wire wins on simplicity and fewer parts; for commercial loads, marginal voltage, or heavy irrigation where diagnostics matter, 3-wire offers advantages.
9) How long should I expect a Myers Predator Plus pump to last with proper maintenance?
Realistically 8–15 years, with 20–30 years achievable under excellent conditions. Longevity depends on matching the pump to BEP, stable power, clean water chemistry, and avoiding short-cycling. The 3-year warranty covers early-life defects; beyond that, the stainless build, self-lubricating impellers, and Pentek XE motor do the heavy lifting. Rick’s recommendation: log pressure and amps annually. If readings drift, address minor issues before they become pulls. Keep set depth off the bottom and check the intake yearly.
10) What maintenance tasks extend well pump lifespan and how often should they be performed?
Annually: test water (pH, iron), check system pressure (cut-in/cut-out), verify tank precharge (2 PSI below cut-in), and record amperage draw at a steady fixture flow. Inspect wiring at the wellhead, ensure the well cap is sealed, and flush any intake screen fouling if accessible during scheduled service. Every 3–5 years: inspect the pitless adapter, evaluate drop pipe integrity, and review voltage under load at the panel. For sandy wells, add post-tank filtration maintenance quarterly. Rick’s recommendation: a 30-minute annual checkup prevents the midnight no-water call.
11) How does Myers’ 3-year warranty compare to competitors and what does it cover?
Myers’ 3-year warranty outpaces common 12–18 month warranties. It covers manufacturing defects and performance issues on the pump assembly and motor under normal use. Installation errors, incorrect wire gauge, dry-run damage, or debris-induced failures aren’t covered—no manufacturer covers misuse. Compared to brands with shorter coverage or more restrictive claim processes, Myers’ policy reflects confidence in the stainless build, Teflon-impregnated staging, and Pentek XE motor. Rick’s recommendation: register your product, keep install photos and startup readings (pressure, amps), and save your receipt. Documentation speeds approvals and protects your investment.
12) What’s the total cost of ownership over 10 years: Myers vs budget pump brands?
Budget pumps can seem tempting at checkout but often cost more over time. Expect 3–5 year lifespans with higher energy use as components wear, plus more frequent pulls. Myers Predator Plus typically delivers 8–15 years, holds efficiency near BEP, and carries a 3-year warranty. Add lower electric bills (up to 20% savings from efficiency), fewer service calls, and the ability to repair the threaded assembly hydraulics. Over a decade, most homeowners save 15–30% with Myers—more if the alternative fails in peak season. Rick’s recommendation: buy once, cry once. Water is mission-critical.
Conclusion: Get NPSH Right, Size to BEP, Choose Stainless, and Let Myers Do Its Job
Water system reliability isn’t luck—it’s design. Respect NPSH, calculate TDH honestly, and stage your Myers Predator Plus to run at or near BEP. Lean on 300 series stainless steel to beat corrosion, count on Teflon-impregnated staging to tame grit, and trust the Pentek XE motor to carry thrust quietly for years. The 3-year warranty, Made in USA quality, and PSAM’s same-day shipping mean fewer surprises and faster recoveries when time matters.
For the Ogunyemi family, the math and materials turned a Sunday night crisis into a one-and-done solution. For your home or project, the same playbook applies. If you want my team to run the numbers, call PSAM. We’ll size it, ship it, and back you up with parts, curves, and field-tested guidance. Myers Pumps through PSAM: reliable water, lower lifetime cost, and a system you won’t have to think about—worth every single penny.
Rick’s Picks for this project:
- Myers Predator Plus 1.5 HP, 10 GPM submersible, 230V Stainless drop pipe and 1-1/4" NPT fittings kit Pitless adapter, torque arrestor, safety rope Heat-shrink wire splice kit and surge protection 86-gallon pressure tank and 40/60 PSI pressure switch
Ready to get your water right? PSAM has your Myers pump in stock and ships today.