FAQ

Below are the most popular Frequently Asked Questions about our
SoftStart Well Pump Product...

SoftStart WellPump

Q1. Is a SoftStart WellPump device basically a transformer? If not, what’s the difference?

A. No. SoftStart WellPump is NOT a transformer. Transformers either step up or step down voltage. A SoftStart WellPump is a solid-state system that protects well pump motors from damage caused by sudden influxes of power. It greatly limits the inrush of high current typically associated with the motor startup of an inductive-load device, such as a well pump.

SoftStart WellPump provides a gentle ramp up to full speed (0.06 sec) and only works during startup.  Some well pumps require
~ 75 Amps to start. The SoftStart Well Pump cuts that in-rush current down by
approx 40%. This can extend the life of the pump and make it easier to start it
on relatively low power such as a generator or even solar/batteries.

Q2. How is SoftStart WellPump different from a Hard Start or Start Assist?

A. A Hard Start or Start Assist is a device that stores a large amount of power and releases its power all at once. That is why you hear a heavy thud when a motor/compressor is started with one of these devices. Hard Start and Start Assist devices are hard on the motors and compressors due to the extreme heat created by the large electrical inrush that they allow to reach these vital components.

Q3. Is a SoftStart WellPump unit watertight and able to bemounted outside the property?

A. A SoftStart WellPump is water-resistant and should be installed with the wires pointed down, preferably inside the property close to the breaker box.

Q4. How long will a SoftStart WellPump unit last?

A. SoftStart WellPump is built to last for many years, but it is an electronic device and there are many factors that can shorten the life of electronics. 

Q5. What is the warranty on the SoftStart WellPump?

A. SoftStart WellPump is warranted for one year plus an additional year free with online registration.

Q6. How does a soft start actually work?

A. SoftStart WellPump is a solid-state system that protects well pump motors from excessive heat damage caused by sudden influxes of power.

It greatly limits the inrush of current associated with motor startup by providing a gentle ramp up to full speed (0.06 sec) SoftStart WellPump only works during the startup, then it gets out of the way until it’s needed for the next startup. It does not operate while the well pump is running, only when it starts up each time.

Q7. Can a SoftStart WellPump replace a hard start device?

A. Yes! The SoftStart WellPump can and DOES replace a Hard Start or Start Assist (to use a SoftStart WellPump, the Hard Start or Start Assist device MUST be disabled before powering up your unit).

The SoftStart WellPump performs a “self test” before starting. If it detects the presence of a Hard Start or Start Assist device, it will not power up (a red light on LED 3 will appear).

Q8. Can a SoftStart WellPump replace a surge arrestor?

A. A SoftStart WellPump does not offer typical surge protection capabilities.

Q9. What type of motor will a SoftStart WellPump work with(single-stage, two-stage or variable)?

A. A SoftStart WellPump will work only on single- and two-stage systems – not a variable speed system.

Q10. Does a SoftStart WellPump work on refrigeration systemsand circulator pumps?

Q10. Does a SoftStart WellPump work on refrigeration systems and circulator pumps?

Q11. Can a SoftStart WellPump be taken off an old well pumpunit and reused on a new or different unit?

A. Yes! The SoftStart WellPump can be removed and used on a new unit if the older one is replaced.

Q12. Does each well pump unit need its own SoftStartWellPump device?

A. Yes. Each well pump needs its own SoftStart WellPump unit if there are multiple pumps.

Q13. Will a SoftStart WellPump affect the Well Pumpsmanufacturer’s warranty?

SoftStart WellPump uses wiring connectors that work on many units.

Q14. Is the SoftStart WellPump unit tested?

A. The SoftStart WellPump is tested at the factory to withstand temperatures ranging from -40ºF to 185ºF. It is also cycle tested to last more than 100,000 cycles and operate more than 45,000 hours at working temperature.

Q15. Can the SoftStart well pump be used for anon demand electric water heater?

A. No, it would have zero effect.It works with motors and compressors, known
as inductive loads; not heaters, know as resistive loads.

Q16.What if I am not electrically or mechanically-inclined enough to do the installation?

A.Watch the instructional videos and see the wiring diagrams, or hire a Well Pump
tech or an electrician that specializes in residential or commercial well pumps.

Q17.Will it work on my 5 HP Well Pump.

A. It depends. The SoftStart WellPump has been lab tested at 5 HP and works but is
rated for up to 3.5 HP for a typical situation where the pump is a deep well
pump greater than 25 feet deep and there is a significant distance to the pump
from the power supply.  Overall it is not
recommended to exceed the 3.5 HP capacity.

Q18. When I am off-grid using a generator, whyshould I consider adding a SoftStart Well Pump into my electrical system?

A: With SoftStart Well Pump connected to your generator, you can start your Well
Pump effortlessly and also run many additional appliances without the need for
a more powerful, more expensive and more cumbersome generator.

Q19.Can I use it with Solar/Battery Backup Power.

A. Yes.  If using Solar/Batteries be sure
that your solar/battery system has enough capacity to handle the demands of
your other appliances, even with the aid of the SoftStart Well Pump.

Q20.What maintenance does the SoftStart WellPump require?

A: The SoftStart Well Pump is virtually maintenance-free. However, it’s wise to
periodically check the connections for any signs of wear or corrosion, especially if it is located in a humid environment. Keeping the unit clean from dust and debris will also help maintain its longevity and ensure consistent performance.

Q21.Is there a warranty or satisfaction guarantee with the SoftStartUp?

A:Yes, we stand behind our product with a 90-day “Love It or Return It” satisfaction guarantee and a limited 1-year warranty. If you encounter any issues with the SoftStart Well Pump within the warranty period, we’ll provide support to resolve the matter.

Our goal is to ensure you’re completely satisfied with your purchase and experience the full benefits of smoother well pump startups, whether under regular power, solar/batteries or generator power...