Well Pump Sizing??

[The Dougster]

If you are serious, do yourself a favor and contact a drilling contractor and spend a few buck on a pumping test. To maximize the well's efficiency, you need to know the production in gallons per minute (GPM) and the drawdown rate (pumping level). If you exceed the production capability of the well you are asking for trouble.
Yes, this is something you can do yourself but it can get complicated. Use a five gallon bucket to measure GPM. Get yourself what is known as an E-line and measure the static water level. Immediately after starting the test, begin measuring the drop in water level.. this must be done in a timely fashion, i.e., five minute intervals. Eventually the drop in water level should stabilize.
Do an internet search for reference material... pay close attention to details.

 

[TheGoose]

It depends. If your higher HP pump is pumping more water than you are using then the answer is no, because of the possibility of cycling. You can always install a cycle reducing valve which pinches off the flow of water but for most regular homeowners it's probably overkill.

You can't really work these pumps too hard. They are made to run. I think you're over-thinking this. You can always go with a variable speed pump or cycle reducing valve to match the demand but I feel that for most people it's over-kill.

Talk with your well service guy and see what he says.

Will a higher HP pump that is not having to work as hard last better than a lower HP pump working at max capacity?