Comparison of continuous and cyclic pumping from a well.

Two practically applicable pumping patterns for wells are: (1) continuous pumping at a sustainable constant rate; and (2) pumping at a sustainable constant rate for a fixed period every day (cyclic pumping). Theoretical analysis shows that with the cyclic pumping pattern the pump can be run at a higher rate than with continuous pumping. However continuous pumping at the maximum continuously sustainable constant rate produces considerably more water. If the objective is to produce as much water as possible, it is important to use a pump designed for running at the maximum continuously sustainable rate.