Submersible Pump question

I recently was working on a bladder tank and switch. After I was done the customer asked me to take a look at his well pump in his cistern. When he pulled the cover he showed me his pump, installed, laying on it's side. He asked me if this was O.K. and I said I didn't know but would find out.

Can anyone tell me if this will cause a problem or not. He has been in the house 7 years with no problem so far, it was installed that way B4 he moved in so was not sure how old it is.

I am curious if this will / could shorten the life of the pump / motor.

I have heard pros and cons but never seen any proof that being on it's side did any damage. Your customer is living proof of that. Most pumps last on average 7 years in the vertical position, so I think the truth is out.

I have heard damage can be done to the thrust bearing because of the water weight not pushing down on it. Well it still is, it's just pushing sideways, the pressure is the same, so what's the big deal?

So my vote is no. A poll maybe???

bob...

I have a customer that has a whole house RO system with a 250 gallon storage tank. There's been a submersible pump laying on the bottom of this tank for 5 years that I know of, and it's working just fine.
Ron

Valveman

I have installed lots of subs horizontal. Even some 75 HP's back in 1994, still running. Speedbup is right pressure goes sideways just fine. Just would not want to run them wide open at 0 PSI. Otherwise not a problem.

Thanks for the replys. My guess was it wasn't a problem but I'm no expert on well pumps and figured if anyone would know 1 of you would.

Again, THANKS!!!!!