Weak Link in Well Pump Electrical Chain?

"genosmm@xxxxxxxxx" bravely wrote to "All" (23 Aug 05 14:23:41)
--- on the heady topic of "Weak Link in Well Pump Electrical Chain?"

ge> From: genosmm@xxxxxxxxx
ge> Xref: core-easynews sci.electronics.repair:340473

ge> Have been having an ever increasing start problem with my well pump.
ge> Noticed that sometimes it would start OK if jiggled the on off switch.
ge> Will add that we have mainly been using the on off switch by the pump
ge> control panel because we have been trying to clean the water storage
ge> tank.

ge> Was surprised when removed the switch because it was a Hubbell 15A
ge> 120-277V AC only. Since the circuit breaker is 20A 240V thought it
ge> would be at least the same or larger.

ge> Since I will be replacing the switch am wondering if it is cost
ge> effective to go to a 30A or higher switch under the assumption that
ge> there will be a longer life expectancy since it will be operating more
ge> conservatively. The "Real World Aspect" cost for a 20A is ~ $6.77
ge> while a 30A is ~ $10.47

ge> Have done a couple searches but have not really found
ge> anything.http://www.google.com/search?q=life+expectancy+on+off+switches
ge> &hl=en&lr=&start=10&sa=N Am guessing the switch mfrs have done a cost
ge> benefit analysis but do not know if they have published anything.

ge> Appreciate any comments!

ge> Gene OHara


I think any switch contacts would benefit from a snubber network.
This keeps the spark down, from inductive loads such as motors, and
prolongs contact life by a large margin. Perhaps even the reason your
original contacts burned is because the existing snubber is open
circuit to begin with! A 30A switch might be harder to burn out but
not impossible with the right inductive kickback and no snubber.
In theory at least...

A*s*i*m*o*v

.... You mean 15" sparks are SUPPOSED to come out of this thing?!?

.