Mike Dolt Enterprises
Mike Dolt Enterprises
User: Bagsofcole, Location: Georgia US
Asked on: Thursday, March 6, 2025 at 10:52 am EST
Answered on: Thursday, March 6, 2025 at 6:35 pm EST
Question: Hello All,We recently moved to the great white north, of Georgia, and this is my first home with a well, and where it freezes. The previous owner would string out 100 ft of extension cord over the driveway and down the hill to the well every winter to power a heater in the event of a freeze.The thing is there is already a 110 outlet at the well head, branched off one of the 120/240 legs that power the well pump, but it only gets power when calling for the well to pump because the pressure switch is hundreds of feet away. The well controller is a Frankin MODEL 2823018110 pump controller with a 3 wire pump.I'd like to bypass the pressure switch on one of the legs so the outlet and one side of the well controller get power all the time. Will this damage the pump? If this is ok, does it matter what leg will get power all the time? The wiring diagram of the well controller does mention "Line power from two pole fused switch or circuit breaker, and other control if used". I assume this controller was the only switch at one time, as the pressure tank and valve were added during a renovation before I took ownership. Thanks in advance!iCloud Photos - Apple iCloudView, organize, and share photos and videos with iCloud Photos on the web. Changes will sync across your devices with iCloud.
Okay, let's break down your well situation and how to best provide freeze protection without risking pump damage. You're right to be concerned about modifying the existing wiring.
Understanding the Current Setup Well Controller
The Franklin 2823018110 is a key component. It's designed to protect the pump motor from overheating, underload, and other electrical faults. These controllers often have sophisticated protection features that simple pressure switches don't provide.
Pressure Switch
The pressure switch is your primary on/off control. When the pressure in the tank drops below a set point, it closes the circuit to power the pump controller. When the pressure reaches the high point, it opens the circuit, shutting off the pump.
110V Outlet
Tapping off one leg of the 240V circuit for the outlet after the pressure switch means it only receives power when the pump is running.
Why Directly Bypassing the Pressure Switch is Problematic1. Loss of Pump Protection
If you bypass the pressure switch on one leg of the 240V power going to the controller, it's not going to run the pump, but it will power the controller full time. The controller might be expecting the pressure switch to be a part of its control logic.2.
Overheating Risk
By bypassing the pressure switch on a single leg you are only powering half of the circuit and potentially damaging the controller.
Safer and Recommended Solutions
Here's how you can achieve freeze protection for your well while minimizing risks:1. Run a New Dedicated Circuit
Best Solution
This is the safest and most reliable way to get power to the wellhead. Run a new, properly sized 120V circuit from your house's electrical panel to the well. This would have its own breaker, independent of the well pump.
Advantages
Completely separate power source for the heater. No risk of interfering with the well pump's operation. Meets electrical code requirements for outdoor circuits (GFCI protection).
Disadvantages
Requires trenching and electrical work (possibly requiring permits and professional help).2.
Install a Thermostatically Controlled Outlet
Purchase a weatherproof outdoor outlet with a built-in thermostat. These are designed to activate at near-freezing temperatures. Plug the heater into this outlet. This ensures the heater only runs when necessary, saving energy.3.
Insulate the Wellhead
Wrap the well casing, pipes, and any exposed components with insulation. Use pipe insulation sleeves and wrap the well casing with fiberglass or foam insulation. Cover the entire wellhead with a well house or insulated blanket for added protection. This can significantly reduce the need for supplemental heat.4.
Use a Heat Tape
Wrap the pipes with heat tape, which is a self-regulating heating cable. Ensure the heat tape is specifically designed for outdoor and wet locations. Plug the heat tape into the dedicated outlet (from option 1) or the thermostatically controlled outlet (from option 2).
Specific Heater Recommendations Submersible Tank Heater
If you're using a tank heater, make sure it's fully submersible and designed for that purpose.
Low-Wattage Space Heater
For well houses, a small, low-wattage space heater can be used, but ensure it's designed for outdoor use and has safety features like tip-over protection.
Important Considerations
Electrical Code
All electrical work must comply with local and national electrical codes.
GFCI Protection
Any outdoor outlet must be GFCI-protected.
Wire Sizing
Ensure the wire gauge is appropriate for the length of the run and the amperage of the heater.
Weatherproof Enclosures
All outlets and connections must be in weatherproof enclosures.
Professional Help
If you're not comfortable working with electricity, hire a qualified electrician.
In summary, the safest and most reliable approach is to run a new, dedicated 120V circuit to the wellhead for freeze protection. This avoids any risk of interfering with the well pump's operation and ensures compliance with electrical codes. Flag for review