How Long Do Well Pumps & Tanks Last? Lifespan by Type & Usage

When your water comes from a well, you want to know it’s reliable and the pump and pressure tank will work on demand every single day. But just like anything else in your home or a piece of equipment you use daily, they won’t last forever. Having a better understanding of how these components usually work, what shortens their lifespan, and how to maximize their efficiency can all help plan ahead and prevent unexpected breakdowns of your Franklin well pump. 

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1. Submersible Well Pumps

Submersible pumps are the most common type of equipment used in deeper wells. Most of these types of pumps will last around 8 to 15 years, but it will depend on a few factors, including:

• Pump cycles
• Water quality 
• Whether or not your tank is sized properly 
• Pumps that are forced to start and stop constantly due to failing tanks or bad switches

If you experience any outstanding issues with your submersible pump, it could burn out your equipment earlier. You can also call our Franklin plumbing team to come out for well pump and tank maintenance and inspections to check over the issue and find a solution.

2. Jet Pumps

Jet pumps are a good option for shallow wells and usually have a shorter lifespan of just 5–10 years. They work harder  to pull water to the surface instead of pushing it from below. The results are motors that usually experience more wear and tear than other types of pumps. Needing to prime your jet pump more than once is a sign of struggle and an indication it’s probably on borrowed time.

3. Pressure Tanks

If you have a good pressure tank, you probably won’t need to swap it out for at least 7 to 12 years. Their weak point is the bladder, and once it fails, your tank won’t hold pressure anymore. The results are short-cycling, which wears the pump down faster. When your tank feels heavy and waterlogged when tapped, you need to schedule a tank replacement. 

4. What Shortens the Lifespan of Well Tanks

There are some factors that wear down your tank that you can’t control. Others you can take an intervention and extend the life of your system. Here’s what to watch for:

• Water quality: Sediment, iron, or hard water quickly adds stress to every component of your tank.
• Improper sizing: An undersized tank makes the pump cycle too much and shortens the life of the pump and your entire system.
• Electrical issues: Power surges or bad wiring can burn out the motors in your tank.
• Neglected maintenance: Ignoring early signs like dropping pressure or sputtering faucets always leads to more complex and expensive repairs.

5. Warning Signs You Need a Tank Replacement

It’s understandable to want to get as much value out of your water tank and pump, but there are signs you need a replacement. Otherwise, you could be left with inefficient water or none at all.

• Pump kicks on and off every few seconds
• Faucets sputter or lose pressure
• Tank no longer holds pre-charge pressure
• Breakers trip when the pump starts
• Rusty or sandy water shows up at your taps

Call G&C Plumbing and Heating for Well Pump and Tank Service Today

No pump or tank lasts forever, but catching problems early can save you thousands of dollars. A system that’s properly sized, maintained, and paired with clean water can last well over a decade. One that’s neglected may not even make it half that long.

Not sure how much life your well pump or tank has left? Call our plumbing and HVAC team today. We’ll test your Franklin water well pump, system, give you an honest assessment, and help you plan the smartest path forward.

Call (508) 966-8919