Reliable well water doesn’t fail at a convenient hour. I’ve taken calls at 9 p.m. from frantic homeowners standing at a silent kitchen faucet while the pressure gauge sits at zero. No shower, no dishes, no livestock water—just the creeping realization that the pump likely ran dry and cooked itself. Dry running is the fastest way to destroy a good pump, especially in late summer when aquifers drop or during heavy irrigation cycles.
Meet the Kobayashis of Klickitat County, Washington. Kenji (38), a forestry tech who works remote three days a week, and his wife, Ellen (36), a nurse at the local clinic, live with their kids—Ava (9) and Leo (6)—on 12 acres outside White Salmon. Their 260-foot well runs a 1 HP system that was originally sized for 8 GPM. After their budget brand submersible starved for water during last August’s heat wave and seized, they went 36 hours hauling five-gallon jugs before we got them back online. A previous contractor had installed a generic 8 GPM pump with no run-dry protection, no flow sensor, and a small pressure tank. The result: short cycles and a burned-out motor.
This guide is about prevention. I’ll show you how to protect a Myers Predator Plus submersible from dry running with smart controls, correct sizing, flow safeguarding, and maintenance that takes minutes but adds years. We’ll cover static/dynamic water level monitoring, pressure tank sizing, Pentek XE motor protections, Teflon-impregnated staging, and when a 2-wire configuration actually saves you money. We’ll also compare Myers against a few common brands where it matters—materials, control requirements, and field serviceability. If you’re a rural homeowner, a licensed contractor, or an emergency buyer who needs water flowing now, these are the 12 tactics that keep your system safe and your home supplied.
Awards/achievements worth noting up front: Myers Predator Plus submersibles deliver 80%+ hydraulic efficiency near BEP, are Made in USA, UL/CSA listed, NSF-related components for potable use, backed by Pentair engineering, and covered by an industry-leading 3-year warranty. As PSAM’s technical advisor, I’ve specified and serviced thousands of systems; dry run protection is non-negotiable in my book. Let’s get to work.
1. Myers Predator Plus Series Stainless Steel Durability—300 Series Lead-Free Construction Resists Heat Damage During Low-Flow Events
Protection starts with rugged bones. When water disappears, a pump’s internal temperature spikes fast; durable materials buy you precious minutes while sensors act. Myers Predator Plus uses a full envelope of 300 series stainless steel across shell, discharge bowl, shaft, coupling, wear ring, and intake screen—all lead-free and highly corrosion resistant. In a dry run incident, thermal mass and stable metallurgy resist warping and galling. Add the threaded assembly for field-servicing, and you have a pump built to survive mistakes that would destroy lighter or mixed-metal builds.
Unlike cast iron bowls, stainless components don’t pit or shed flakes into stages under heat and aeration. Paired with Myers’ engineered composite impellers in Teflon-impregnated staging, friction and abrasion are minimized if water goes turbulent or sandy after a drawdown. It’s a safety net—never a substitute for proper controls—but one that matters when you’re in a heat wave or irrigating heavy.
For Kenji Kobayashi, the stainless build was step one after his old pump’s mixed-metal stack twisted under heat. We set him up with a Myers submersible well pump—Predator Plus 1 HP, 10 GPM model—designed for 260 feet TDH margin and a mid-curve operating point.
Stainless Steel vs Water Chemistry Reality
High mineral content and mildly acidic pH accelerate corrosion. 300 series stainless steel maintains structural integrity, preventing micro-cracks where heat and oxidization compound. That stability maintains tight stage tolerances and consistent efficiency over time.
Heat Tolerance Buys Time
Even brief dry runs elevate temperature rapidly. Stainless hardware, composite impellers, and nitrile bearings hold shape longer, preventing drag that snowballs into seizure. It buys control logic time to shut down safely.
Field-Serviceable Safety
A threaded assembly means if you do suffer a minor incident, you can service stages or replace a wear ring without scrapping the entire pump. That’s insurance the Kobayashis appreciated after their previous “sealed unit” failure.
Key takeaway: Build quality is your first defensive layer. Myers’ stainless stack resists heat, corrosion, and deformation when things go wrong.
2. Pentek XE High-Thrust Motor—Thermal Overload and Lightning Protection That Saves Motors When Water Disappears
Dry run protection relies on smart controls, but the motor’s own brain must intervene first. Myers Predator Plus pairs with the Pentek XE motor, a single-phase, continuous duty design that integrates thermal overload protection and lightning protection. When the motor senses heat rise beyond safe thresholds—often caused by loss of cooling flow—it trips to protect windings and bearings. That trip recovery is smooth, preventing repeated high-amp restarts that cook insulation.
High-thrust bearings in the XE motor stabilize axial loads across multi-stage pumps. During low-flow events where water lubricity drops, those bearings maintain alignment, reducing scoring and extending service life. Operating at 230V with efficient amperage draw, the XE platform contributes to the Predator Plus’ 80%+ hydraulic efficiency at best efficiency point (BEP), reducing energy costs and drift toward inefficient, heat-generating operation.
When Ellen Kobayashi noticed intermittent sputters at the tap, the XE motor’s thermal trip prevented a total meltdown. That gave us the diagnostic window to confirm falling dynamic water level and add flow-sensing protection.
Built-In Thermal Intelligence
Heat spikes happen quickly when water vanishes. The thermal overload protection interrupts before winding damage. It’s the motor equivalent of an airbag—quiet, decisive, and essential.
Surge/Lightning Protection
Rural properties see surges. Integrated lightning protection reduces catastrophic motor failure from transient spikes. Pair it with a good panel surge protector for best results.
High-Thrust Stability
Vertical loads matter in multi-stage pump stacks. High-thrust bearings keep the rotor true, limiting contact, friction, and temperature rise during marginal flow.
Key takeaway: Smart motors prevent minor incidents from becoming major replacements. The Pentek XE’s protections are the backbone of dry run resilience.
3. Know Your Water Level—Static and Dynamic Measurements to Prevent Starvation and Short Cycling
Ask any driller: water level moves. You need to know two numbers—static level (pump off) and dynamic level (pump on at demand flow). If dynamic level approaches the pump intake, you’re flirting with dry run. Protect your system by logging seasonal TDH realities, not just drill log estimates.
I advised Kenji to chart static at 150 feet in spring, sliding to 175 feet by August. Under 8 GPM draw, dynamic sat around 195 feet. We set the pump at 220 feet with 15 feet of lift to spare and adjusted the pressure tank to reduce cycle frequency.
Simple Testing Protocol
- Kill power. Read static with a weighted tape. Restart, run two hose bibs, read dynamic after 15 minutes. Record monthly through peak season to catch trends.
Keep the Intake Submerged
Maintain at least 15-20 feet of water over the intake under peak draw. If you’re tight, either drop the pump deeper (staying above well screen/sediment) or reduce draw with a flow restrictor.
Pair Sizing to Real TDH
Use a pump curve and actual TDH (vertical lift + friction loss + pressure). A pump sized too “hot” will outrun the aquifer and dry itself. Right-sizing is dry run prevention.
Key takeaway: Measure your water, don’t guess. Data-driven placement and sizing stop starvation events before controls ever need Look at more info to act.
4. Right-Size Your Pressure Tank—Longer Run Times Prevent Low-Flow Overheating and Sensor Nuisance Trips
Short cycling is the enemy. Rapid on/off sequences generate heat, hammer motors, and increase the odds of running during low recharge. A properly sized pressure tank smooths demand, giving wells time to recover and keeping the pump in its efficient zone.
For the Kobayashis, the original 20-gallon tank delivered barely 5-6 gallons drawdown at 40/60 PSI—far too small. We upgraded to an 86-gallon tank with ~23-25 gallons drawdown at 40/60. That change alone cut starts by two-thirds and reduced cycling during evening showers and laundry.
Drawdown Math That Matters
Drawdown depends on tank size and pressure settings. Target 1 minute minimum run time; I prefer 90 seconds to 2 minutes. More run time equals less heat and fewer marginal water-level episodes.
Pressure Switch Synchronization
Set your pressure switch to match tank pre-charge (2 PSI under cut-in) and household needs. 40/60 is typical. Avoid cranking to 60/80 unless your pump curve supports it at your TDH.
Smooth Flow, Safer Pump
Fewer starts, longer run cycles, and moderate pressure spread keep the motor cooler and the well stable. It’s an inexpensive way to protect any Myers well pump.
Key takeaway: An undersized tank is a dry run amplifier. Size it right and your pump stays cooler and safer.
5. Install True Dry-Run Protection—Flow Sensor + Underload Cutoff Stops the Spiral Before It Starts
Electronic guardians save pumps. A flow switch or a power-sensing underload controller detects when the pump is spinning but water isn’t moving and shuts it down. Pair either with a short lockout delay to allow well recovery.
On the Kobayashi system, I installed a paddle-style flow switch downstream of the tank tee and a motor underload protector in the control circuit. Either event—no flow or low amp draw—kills power and posts an indicator. After a 15-minute delay, the controller attempts restart. If flow doesn’t return, it locks out and alerts.
Flow Switch Placement
Install after the tank and before branch circuits for accurate total flow measurement. Confirm minimum activation GPM matches your pump’s normal trickle flow.
Underload Intelligence
When water disappears, amp draw falls. A good underload controller recognizes the signature and reacts quickly before windings overheat.
Delay Timers Matter
Built-in delays let aquifers bounce back. A 10-15 minute delay has saved more pumps than I can count.
Key takeaway: Controls are your first responder. Spend the small money to avoid the big replacement.
6. Teflon-Impregnated Staging—Self-Lubricating Impellers Reduce Heat and Sand Damage During Marginal Flow
Dry running often starts as partial starvation or sand intrusion. Myers’ Teflon-impregnated staging and self-lubricating impellers limit friction and resist abrasion, keeping temperatures lower and tolerances tighter when water quality shifts. Staging that sheds less heat buys time for controls to trigger.
The Kobayashis had seasonal fines after a heavy storm. With the Predator Plus’ engineered composite impellers, they avoided the catastrophic scoring that wrecks efficiency. Post-storm cleaning of the prefilter and a purge cycle cleared the line without damage.
Friction Control in Real Life
Self-lubrication matters when the fluid film thins. Less contact equals less heat, less warping, and fewer nuisance trips.
Sand and Grit Resistance
Composite impellers handle occasional fines better than metal-on-metal designs. Combined with a good intake screen, the staging lives longer.
Maintain Efficiency Longer
Even small tolerance losses drag efficiency, increasing amperage and heat. Myers’ staging maintains curve performance deeper into service life.
Key takeaway: The right staging materials turn a near-miss into a non-event. That’s quiet protection you’ll appreciate.
7. 2-Wire vs 3-Wire Configuration—Simplify Controls Without Compromising Protection
Both configurations work; the right choice depends on depth, control preferences, and budget. Myers offers 2-wire and 3-wire options across multiple horsepower ratings (1/2 HP to 2 HP). A 2-wire submersible well pump keeps controls simple—no external control box—and reduces upfront cost, while modern protection devices add run-dry safeguards externally. A 3-wire system places start components topside for easier service and fine-tuned control logic.
For Kenji, a 230V 2-wire made sense—fewer components, quick install, and we added line-sensing dry run protection. If you want granular diagnostics or anticipate frequent starts due to irrigation zones, a 3-wire can make service faster for contractors.
When 2-Wire Wins
Shallower systems, straightforward homes, and budget-conscious upgrades. Add flow/underload protection at the panel and you’re covered.
When 3-Wire Shines
Deep wells, high HP, or advanced control strategies. External control box makes component swaps simple and diagnostics easier.
Don’t Skimp on Protection
Regardless of wire count, include dry-run, surge protection, and correct tank sizing. That stack keeps any Myers pump happy.
Key takeaway: Choose the configuration that fits your system, then add protections that neutralize dry-run risk.
8. Sizing to the Pump Curve—Match GPM and Head So You Don’t Outrun the Aquifer
An oversized pump can be just as dangerous as an undersized one. Too much flow at your TDH can draw the dynamic level down faster than the aquifer recharges—classic dry run trigger. The answer is pump curve discipline: select a Myers Predator Plus model that places your operating point near the BEP for efficiency while respecting well yield.
For the Kobayashis’ 260-foot setup, target household demand was 7-8 GPM. A Myers 10 GPM curve at 45-50 PSI with friction accounted for landed perfectly near BEP, reducing heat and stress. No more chasing pressure with a pump that wants to deliver 18 GPM in a 7 GPM well.
Calculate Real TDH
TDH = vertical lift + pressure (2.31 ft/PSI) + friction loss. At 50 PSI, that’s ~115 ft just for pressure. Add your lift and piping friction for reality.
Operate Near BEP
At BEP, hydraulic efficiency peaks, amperage stabilizes, and heat falls. That’s where pumps lead long lives.
Don’t Chase Peak GPM
Select for actual needs, not maximum advertised flow. Oversizing is a dry-run accelerant.
Key takeaway: Curve-driven sizing protects your well and your pump. When in doubt, ask PSAM for a curve review.
9. Comparison Deep Dive: Myers Predator Plus vs Goulds and Grundfos on Dry-Run Protection and Ownership Value
Technical performance: Myers uses full 300 series stainless steel wet-end construction, Teflon-impregnated staging, and the Pentek XE motor with thermal overload protection. Efficiency holds above 80% near BEP. Goulds employs mixed materials including cast iron in some assemblies, which can corrode under mineral or acidic conditions, increasing drag and heat. Grundfos offers quality wet ends but often leans toward 3-wire configuration and more complex control systems that add upfront cost and require stricter setup.
Real-world differences: Myers is field serviceable with a threaded assembly, allowing on-site stage or wear ring work. That’s crucial after minor dry-run incidents. Goulds’ susceptibility to corrosion in tough water can shorten service intervals. Grundfos systems are strong performers but can involve pricier control architectures and proprietary approaches. Installation simplicity with Myers—especially in 2-wire—makes adding third-party dry-run controls straightforward and economical.
Value conclusion: For rural homes without a dealer around the corner, Myers’ stainless build, XE motor protections, 3-year warranty, and PSAM’s same-day shipping stack into a lower total cost of ownership over 10 years. When dry-run risk is real, that combination is worth every single penny.
10. System Accessories That Stop Dry Running—Check Valve, Torque Arrestor, Pitless, and Clean Electrical
Dry run events aren’t always about water level; sometimes hydraulics or vibration create conditions that fool a system. A quality top-side check valve prevents backflow that “ghosts” pressure, tricking controls. A torque arrestor stabilizes the pump on startup, protecting wire splices from chafe that can cause false trips or failures. A properly seated pitless adapter ensures no suction leaks that cause aeration and overheating. Clean electrical—tight lugs, correct wire splice kit, and surge protection—keeps sensors honest.
Kenji’s old system had a leaky check that let the line drain back, causing frequent starts and hot runs. Replacing it with a stainless spring check and rebuilding the splice solved half the ghost cycling overnight.
Check Valves Done Right
Use a high-quality check at the well head and respect the pump’s internal check. Avoid stacking multiple checks without need—it can cause chatter.
Stabilize the Pump
A torque arrestor limits rotational whip at startup, extending wire life and reducing nuisance faults that happen to coincide with low water events.
Electrical Integrity
Loose connections equal heat. Surge protection plus properly crimped splices preserve motor health and accurate sensor readings.
Key takeaway: Accessories matter. Small parts prevent weird conditions that mimic or worsen dry-run scenarios.
11. Seasonal Smart Practices—Irrigation Scheduling, Recovery Windows, and Alarm Feedback
Demand management prevents dry run as effectively as hardware. Stagger irrigation zones, run deeper watering less frequently, and schedule heavy draws when neighbors aren’t pulling (if on a shared aquifer). Build in recovery windows—15-30 minutes—between long cycles so static level rebounds.
For Ellen, a simple controller update that prevented two high-flow hoses from running simultaneously eliminated late-evening sputters. We also added an audible dry-run alarm on the controller so she’d know immediately if protection tripped.
Staggered Demand
Zones at 3-4 GPM each rather than 8-10 GPM all at once keeps dynamic levels healthier. It’s gentle on the well and the pump.
Recovery Pauses
Timers are cheap. Allow the aquifer to catch up, and your pump will thank you with cooler operation and fewer trips.
Alarms and Counters
Use a controller with trip count and audible/visual alarms. You’ll catch developing problems early.
Key takeaway: A little scheduling finesse prevents a lot of heat and heartache.
12. Warranty, Documentation, and PSAM Support—Backstop Your Investment the Right Way
Even with protection, documentation matters. Myers’ 3-year warranty is the industry standout, and proper installation notes, water level logs, and control settings help you leverage it if needed. Keep your pump curve, pressure switch settings, and controller model/parameters in a binder near the pressure tank. PSAM stocks Myers pumps and accessories for same-day shipment, and my team is on call for curve reviews and troubleshooting.
After their install, the Kobayashis keep a one-page system sheet: well depth (260’), static (seasonal), dynamic (8 GPM draw), pump model, pressure settings (40/60), and controller delay (15 min). When Ellen called with a question, we solved it in minutes without guesswork.
Warranty Confidence
A 36-month window protects against defects and gives peace of mind. Proper documentation keeps claims smooth.
Parts at the Ready
From pitless adapter to pressure tank to controls, PSAM’s inventory gets you back online fast during a surprise shutdown.
Expert Eyes
Send us your TDH math. We’ll confirm the GPM rating, stages, and operating point near BEP so dry-run risk stays low.
Key takeaway: Pair Myers hardware with smart recordkeeping and PSAM support. It’s a system, not a guess.
Comparison Spotlight: Myers vs Franklin Electric on Control Simplicity and Field Serviceability
Technical performance: Both are respected. Myers Predator Plus emphasizes field serviceable design with a threaded assembly and broad 2-wire/3-wire flexibility. Franklin Electric submersibles frequently pair with proprietary control boxes, adding component cost and tying service to specific dealer networks. Myers’ Pentek XE motor integrates robust protections, and the wet end’s 300 series stainless steel resists corrosion better than mixed-metal alternatives in variable water chemistries.
Real-world application: For rural owners who need parts fast, Myers’ open approach makes adding third-party dry-run protection simple and affordable. Serviceability is a genuine advantage when you can swap a wear ring or stage without retiring the entire pump. Franklin’s dealer-centric ecosystem works well in metro zones with easy access, but it introduces delays and complexity in remote settings.
Value verdict: When dry-run incidents require quick field resolution, Myers plus PSAM support gives homeowners and contractors control, speed, and lower lifetime cost. Less dependency on proprietary boxes and easier on-site servicing make Myers worth every single penny.
Comparison Spotlight: Myers vs Red Lion on Materials and Heat Resilience
Technical performance: Myers’ wet end uses stainless steel shells and Teflon-impregnated staging, while many Red Lion models lean into thermoplastic housings. Under heat from marginal flow or dry-run events, stainless maintains structural integrity; thermoplastic can deform or crack. Myers also aligns operating points near BEP, maintaining 80%+ efficiency and reducing heat load across the motor and stages.
Real-world application: In pressure-cycling rural homes and during summer drawdown, thermoplastic housings are more vulnerable to fatigue. Once deformation starts, clearances change, friction rises, and events spiral into failure. Myers’ stainless build resists those changes, and the Pentek XE motor’s protective logic intervenes before damage spreads.
Value conclusion: If your well fluctuates or you irrigate, the material delta shows up as years of extra life and fewer headaches. Myers’ stainless construction, smarter motor protection, and PSAM’s stocking of service parts make the price difference worth every single penny.
FAQ: Expert Answers to Keep Your Myers Pump Safe and Productive
1) How do I determine the correct horsepower for my well depth and household water demand?
Start with your total dynamic head (TDH): vertical lift from water level to tank, plus pressure converted to feet (PSI x 2.31), plus friction losses in pipe and fittings. Next, estimate household demand—typical homes need 6-10 GPM. Using a Myers pump curve, pick a model whose operating point (GPM at TDH) lands near the BEP. For example, a home with 180 feet of lift, 50 PSI (115 ft), and modest friction might be ~310 feet TDH. For 8 GPM at 310 feet TDH, a 1 HP Myers Predator Plus 10 GPM model often fits. Bigger homes or irrigation may push you to 1.5 HP. Avoid oversizing—too much flow risks outrunning your aquifer. PSAM can review your numbers and recommend the correct stages, GPM rating, and voltage. Rick’s recommendation: Let data lead. A correctly sized Myers cuts heat, extends life, and reduces dry-run risk.
2) What GPM flow rate does a typical household need and how do multi-stage impellers affect pressure?
Most single-family homes operate comfortably at 6-10 GPM. Large homes with multiple baths or irrigation can require 12-15 GPM. Multi-stage pump design stacks impellers, converting rotational energy into higher pressure at a given flow. With more stages, you can hit a higher head at moderate GPM, perfect for deeper wells. The Myers Predator Plus lineup covers 7-8 GPM through 20+ GPM models with shut-off head capabilities from 250 to 490 feet. At the right staging, you maintain steady pressure (say 40/60 PSI), reduce cycling, and keep operation near BEP, which reduces heat. Rick’s recommendation: Size stages to your TDH, not your dream lawn. You’ll keep your pump cool and protected from dry-run scenarios.
3) How does the Myers Predator Plus Series achieve 80% hydraulic efficiency compared to competitors?
Efficiency comes from a balanced wet-end: precision engineered composite impellers, tight-stage tolerances, and smooth 300 series stainless steel hydraulics. When the operating point is near BEP, flow is laminar, drag is minimized, and amperage draw stays stable. The Pentek XE motor complements this by efficiently converting electric power with reduced heat output. Some competitors lose ground with mixed-metal components or looser tolerances, which raise internal friction. Myers’ design sustains high efficiency longer into service life due to wear-resistant staging and corrosion-resistant materials. Rick’s recommendation: Run your pump where the curve wants you. Efficiency is protection, and protection is longevity.
4) Why is 300 series stainless steel superior to cast iron for submersible well pumps?
Submerged components face minerals, oxygen, and sometimes acidic conditions. 300 series stainless steel resists pitting and galvanic corrosion far better than cast iron. Over time, corroded cast iron sheds scale and widens clearances, hurting efficiency and increasing heat—dangerous during low-flow events. Stainless maintains geometry, so impellers and wear rings stay aligned, friction stays low, and the motor doesn’t labor. In thermal spikes from partial starvation, stainless holds shape where cast iron can warp or crack. Rick’s recommendation: If your water chemistry is unknown or variable, stainless is cheap insurance against both corrosion and dry-run heat damage.
5) How do Teflon-impregnated self-lubricating impellers resist sand and grit damage?
Myers’ Teflon-impregnated staging lowers the coefficient of friction between stationary and rotating parts. When fine sand enters, the self-lubricating surfaces reduce abrasive contact and heat generation compared to metal-on-metal interfaces. That buys time for filters to clear or controls to shut down. It also preserves close clearances longer, sustaining performance near the pump curve. In the field, it means fewer seized pumps after storms or heavy drawdowns that pull fines. Rick’s recommendation: Combine these impellers with a clean intake screen and periodic flushes after major weather events for best results.
6) What makes the Pentek XE high-thrust motor more efficient than standard well pump motors?
The Pentek XE motor is engineered for high-thrust loads common to multi-stage vertical pumps. Its winding design optimizes power factor and reduces wasted heat, while thermal overload protection and lightning protection shield internal components. Efficient conversion of electrical to mechanical energy lowers amperage draw at a given duty point. Less waste heat means safer operation during marginal flow and fewer nuisance trips. Rick’s recommendation: Pair the XE with proper surge protection at your panel and you’ll add years to service life.
7) Can I install a Myers submersible pump myself or do I need a licensed contractor?
DIY-capable owners often handle replacements, especially with 2-wire configurations, but mistakes get expensive fast. You’ll need to size from the pump curve, set correct pressure switch and tank pre-charge, use the right wire splice kit, confirm rotation/current draw, and ensure proper pitless adapter seating and sanitary practices. A licensed well contractor brings calibration tools, hoists, and experience that prevent missteps—like setting the pump too shallow over a fluctuating dynamic level. Rick’s recommendation: If you’re under 150 feet and experienced, DIY with PSAM guidance can be fine. Beyond that—or if you’re adding dry-run electronics—hire a pro. Your Myers warranty is strongest with documented best practices.
8) What’s the difference between 2-wire and 3-wire well pump configurations?
A 2-wire well pump contains start components in the motor can—no external control box—which simplifies installation and lowers upfront cost. A 3-wire well pump uses an external control box to manage start/run capacitors and relays, making diagnostics and component swaps easier topside. Both can be protected from dry run using flow or underload controls. Myers offers both in the Predator Plus Series, from 1/2 HP to 2 HP, at 115V or 230V depending on the model. Rick’s recommendation: For straightforward residential systems, 2-wire plus external dry-run protection is cost-effective. For deep wells, complex systems, or frequent servicing, 3-wire provides flexibility.
9) How long should I expect a Myers Predator Plus pump to last with proper maintenance?
With correct sizing, quality power, and dry-run protection, expect 8-15 years as a typical service life. I’ve seen well-kept systems reach 20-30 years. Key factors: stable voltage, proper pressure tank sizing, clean splices, surge protection, and measured well levels to prevent starvation. The 3-year warranty covers manufacturing defects, and Myers’ field serviceable design can extend lifespan by allowing targeted wet-end refreshes. Rick’s recommendation: Put a 10-minute maintenance check on your spring and late-summer calendar—pressure, amperage, recovery time, and a quick splice and fitting inspection.
10) What maintenance tasks extend well pump lifespan and how often should they be performed?
Twice a year, check: tank pre-charge (2 PSI below cut-in), pressure switch contacts (pitting/heat), amp draw under normal flow, and system pressure recovery time. Annually, verify static/dynamic levels and compare to last year—if dynamic is trending lower, adjust irrigation or install flow-limiters. Inspect the check valve, look for leaks or hammer, and confirm controller delay settings. After major storms, flush lines briefly to clear fines. Rick’s recommendation: Keep a one-page log. Trends tell you when to act before a dry-run event happens.
11) How does Myers’ 3-year warranty compare to competitors and what does it cover?
Myers’ 3-year warranty outpaces many competitors who offer 12-18 months. It covers defects in materials and workmanship under normal use. That confidence pairs with PSAM support—fast parts, reliable documentation, and real phone help. Longer coverage reduces lifetime cost and encourages proper maintenance since you’re invested in a high-quality platform. Rick’s recommendation: Register your pump, save your install docs (TDH, GPM rating, pressure settings), and you’ll be prepared if a claim is needed.
12) What’s the total cost of ownership over 10 years: Myers vs budget pump brands?
Budget pumps can look attractive upfront, but I see 3-5 year lifespans punctuated by higher energy use and more frequent service calls—especially after dry-run incidents. Myers’ 80%+ efficiency, stainless wet end, Pentek XE motor, and 3-year warranty combine for fewer replacements and lower electricity. Factor one avoided emergency replacement at 2 a.m., and the math tilts further. Over 10 years, most homeowners spend less with Myers due to longevity and stability. Rick’s recommendation: Buy once, pair it with dry-run protection, and enjoy a decade of quiet reliability.
Final Word: Protect First, Then Forget About It
Dry running is preventable. Build your defense in layers: stainless wet end, Pentek XE motor protections, right-sized pressure tank, flow/underload run-dry controls, and honest data on static and dynamic water levels. Myers Have a peek here Predator Plus gives you the materials, efficiency, and serviceability to survive the unexpected. PSAM rounds it out with same-day shipping, curve reviews, and the parts you need the day you need them.
Kenji and Ellen Kobayashi went from hauling water to not thinking about their well at all. That’s the goal. A properly protected Myers water well pump doesn’t call attention to itself—it just delivers.
Ready to safeguard your system? Call PSAM for a curve check, my “Rick’s Picks” run-dry controller recommendation for your setup, and the right Predator Plus model to match your depth, pressure, and GPM. Protect it once, and enjoy water on demand for years.