Why should pump capacity be matched to well capacity?

Matching pump capacity to well capacity is essential for the sustainability and health of the aquifer. When a pump's capacity exceeds the yield of the well, it can lead to significant issues such as aquifer depletion, excessive drawdown, and the potential for irreversible damage to the water source. Over-extraction can cause the water table to drop, which can lead to increased pumping costs, loss of water quality, and long-term sustainability issues for the aquifer itself. This is crucial for maintaining the natural balance of groundwater systems and ensuring that water can continue to be extracted without causing harm to the surrounding environment.

While other factors such as energy costs and pump longevity are important in the overall operation of a pump system, the primary focus of matching the pump capacity to the well capacity revolves around protecting the aquifer and ensuring its viability for future use.