Water is a crucial part of our lives, and a working well pump is essential for providing a steady supply of clean water to our homes. However, even the most well-maintained pumps can fail eventually, leaving you without water. If your well pump has given out, don’t panic! Replacing a well pump is a manageable task that can be completed in a day with the right tools and know-how. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the steps involved in replacing a well pump, from preparing the site to troubleshooting common issues. By following our instructions carefully, you’ll be able to restore your water supply in no time.
Before you begin, it’s important to gather the necessary tools and materials. You’ll need a new well pump, a length of PVC pipe, a pipe cutter, a primer, PVC cement, electrical wire, a multimeter, a wrench, a screwdriver, and a pump puller. Once you have everything you need, you can start the replacement process. The first step is to disconnect the power to your well pump. This can be done by turning off the breaker or fuse that supplies power to the pump. Next, you’ll need to locate the well head and remove the cap. The well head is typically located in your yard or basement, and it’s the point where the water from the well enters your home.
Once you’ve removed the cap, you’ll need to disconnect the electrical wires from the pump. Be sure to label the wires so that you can reconnect them correctly later. Next, you’ll need to remove the old pump from the well. This can be done by using a pump puller, which is a tool that attaches to the pump and allows you to pull it out of the well. Once the old pump is removed, you can install the new pump. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for installing the pump. Once the new pump is installed, you can connect the electrical wires and the PVC pipe. Finally, you’ll need to prime the pump by pouring water into the pump head. Once the pump is primed, you can turn on the power and test the pump to make sure it’s working properly.
Identifying the Source of the Problem
Before embarking on any repairs, it’s crucial to pinpoint the exact source of the problem with your well pump. This involves carefully examining various symptoms and components to determine the root cause.
1. Check for Power and Physical Damage
Inspect the power supply: Verify that the breaker or fuse associated with the well pump is not tripped or blown. Additionally, check the wiring and electrical connections for any loose or damaged components.
Examine the pump for physical damage: Inspect the pump for any visible signs of damage, such as leaks, cracks, or rust. Also, check the impeller and motor windings for any damage or obstructions that may hinder the pump’s operation.
Test the capacitor: The capacitor is a crucial component that provides a surge of power to the pump’s motor. Using a multimeter, test the capacitor for continuity and capacitance according to the manufacturer’s specifications.
| Symptom | Possible Cause |
|---|---|
| No power to pump | Tripped breaker or blown fuse |
| Leaks or cracks in pump | Physical damage |
| Pump runs but no water flow | Damaged impeller or motor windings |
Gathering Necessary Materials and Tools
Materials:
- New well pump
- PVC pipe and fittings (if needed)
- Well seal
- Well cap
- Electrical wire and connectors
- Pump controller (if needed)
- Pressure tank (if needed)
Tools:
- Adjustable wrench
- Pipe wrench
- Voltage tester
- Measuring tape
- Level
- Safety glasses
- Gloves
Additional Tools and Materials for Submersible Pumps:
|
Tool |
Function |
|---|---|
|
Submersible pump puller |
Retrieves the pump from the well |
|
Float switch |
Controls the pump’s on/off cycle based on water level |
|
Safety rope |
Secures the pump and electrical wire during installation and retrieval |
|
Well lubricant |
Protects the pump and casing from corrosion and friction |
Shutting Off Power and Water
### Step 1: Locate and Disconnect the Electrical Power
First, locate the electrical panel that supplies power to the well pump. This is usually found in the basement, garage, or an outdoor shed. Open the panel and identify the breaker or fuse that is labeled “well pump.” Turn the breaker off or remove the fuse.
### Step 2: Shut Off the Water Supply
Next, locate the main water valve, which typically controls the water supply to the entire house. Turn the valve clockwise to shut it off. This will prevent water from flowing into the well and potentially damaging the new pump.
### Step 3: Drain the Water from the Pressure Tank
The pressure tank stores pressurized water and is connected to the well pump. Draining the pressure tank will help prevent water from flowing back into the well when the pump is disconnected:
| Pressure Tank Type | Drainage Procedure | |
|---|---|---|
|
Diaphragm Tank |
Install a drain valve on the bottom of the tank. |
Open the drain valve and allow the water to drain out. |
|
Bladder Tank |
Locate the Schrader valve on the top of the tank. |
Use a screwdriver to press the pin in the valve and release the water. |
Detaching the Pump from the Pressure Tank
Once the electrical and water connections are disconnected, the pump can be detached from the pressure tank. Follow these steps carefully to avoid damaging either the pump or the tank.
Disconnect the Discharge Pipe
Locate the discharge pipe that connects the pump to the pressure tank. This pipe is typically made of metal or plastic and carries water from the pump to the tank. Using a pipe wrench or pliers, loosen the nuts or bolts that secure the pipe to the pump and tank. Carefully pull the pipe away from both the pump and the tank.
Disconnect the Suction Pipe
Similar to the discharge pipe, locate the suction pipe that connects the pump to the water source. This pipe typically brings water from a well, cistern, or other water source to the pump. Loosen the nuts or bolts that secure the suction pipe to the pump and the water source. Gently pull the pipe away from both the pump and the water source.
Support the Pump
Before detaching the pump from the pressure tank, ensure that it is adequately supported. This is especially important for submerged pumps that are located inside the pressure tank.
To support the pump, insert a wooden block or other support material beneath the pump. This will prevent the pump from falling or slipping when it is disconnected from the tank.
Detach the Pump
| Submersible Pumps | Jet Pumps |
|---|---|
| Carefully lift the pump straight up out of the pressure tank. | Locate the bolts that secure the pump to the pressure tank. Remove the bolts and gently pull the pump away from the tank. |
Removing the Pump from the Well
To remove the pump from the well, follow these steps:
1. Disconnect the power supply
Turn off the circuit breaker or fuse that powers the well pump.
2. Remove the electrical conduit
Use a wrench or pliers to loosen the conduit fittings and pull the conduit out of the well head.
3. Disconnect the discharge pipe
Use a pipe wrench to loosen the union or coupling that connects the discharge pipe to the pump.
4. Remove the pump from the well
Grasp the pump by the carrying handle or use a hoist if the pump is heavy. Slowly lift the pump out of the well, being careful not to damage the well casing.
5. Inspect the well casing and pump
Once the pump is removed, inspect the well casing for any damage or corrosion. Also, inspect the pump for any signs of wear or damage. Replace any damaged components as necessary.
| Component | Inspection Points |
|---|---|
| Well casing | Cracks, corrosion, holes |
| Pump impeller | Wear, damage |
| Pump housing | Cracks, leaks |
| Pump bearings | Noise, vibration |
Lowering the New Pump into the Well
Lowering the new pump into the well requires meticulous precision and careful handling. Follow these steps to ensure proper installation:
-
Attach the Discharge Pipe:
Connect the discharge pipe to the pump outlet using a union or threaded connection. Ensure that the fittings are securely tightened using a wrench.
-
Install the Check Valve:
Slide the check valve onto the discharge pipe, making sure it is facing the correct direction. The arrow or inscription on the valve should point upwards.
-
Attach the Electrical Cable:
Tie the electrical cable securely to the discharge pipe using electrical tape or cable ties. This prevents strain on the cable and ensures its longevity.
-
Attach the Safety Cable:
Connect the safety cable to the pump eyebolt or handle. This cable serves as a backup in case the discharge pipe fails, preventing the pump from plunging into the well.
-
Lubricate the O-rings:
Apply a thin layer of pipe lubricant or silicone grease to the O-rings of the pump adapter and pressure tank. This lubrication creates a watertight seal and prevents leaks.
-
Lower the Pump:
Carefully lower the pump into the well, ensuring that it remains upright and does not swing excessively.
Tools List Rope or lowering device Bucket Assistant (optional) -
Hand-Lower:
For shallow wells or lighter pumps, lower the pump manually using a rope or lowering device. Keep the rope taut and control the descent speed to prevent damage.
-
Assisted Lowering:
For heavy pumps or deeper wells, use a well casing or another pump as a lowering platform. Rest the new pump on the platform and gradually lower it into the well.
-
Submerge the Pump:
Submerge the pump to the desired depth. The submergence depth should be determined by the well’s water level and the pump’s specifications.
-
Secure the Pump:
Once the pump is submerged, tie it off to the well casing or pump hanger to prevent movement. Use a cable tie or a rope for this purpose.
- Open the pressure relief valve on the pump to allow any trapped air to escape.
- Use a funnel or hose to pour water into the pump’s intake port. Continue pouring until water fills the port and begins to overflow.
- Tightly close the pressure relief valve.
- Turn on the pump and observe the water pressure gauge. The pressure should rise steadily as the pump primes.
- Open a faucet or other water outlet to allow water to flow through the system and remove any remaining air pockets.
- Continue running the pump until the water pressure gauge indicates a stable pressure.
- Open and close faucets as needed to remove any air that may have entered the system during the re-priming process.
- Once the pump is primed, check for any leaks or unusual noises. If any issues arise, consult a qualified plumber for assistance.
- Turn on the power to the pump.
- Check for leaks around the pump and connections.
- Open a faucet to allow water to flow through the system.
- Observe the pressure gauge. The pressure should gradually increase as the water flows.
- Check the flow rate by measuring how much water is dispensed from the faucet in a given time period.
- Adjust the pressure switch to the desired pressure.
- Close the faucet and observe the pressure gauge. The pressure should remain constant.
- Turn off the power to the pump.
- Check the pressure gauge again. The pressure should slowly decrease as the water stops flowing.
- If the system passes all these tests, it is ready to use.
- If you notice any leaks, tighten the connections or replace the faulty part.
- If the pressure is too low, adjust the pressure switch to a higher setting.
- If the pressure is too high, adjust the pressure switch to a lower setting.
- If the flow rate is too low, check for blockages in the pipes or increase the pump size.
- If you are unsure about any aspect of testing the system, consult a qualified plumber.
- The pump is making a lot of noise
- The pump is not producing enough water
- The pump is running constantly
- The water pressure is low
- The water is cloudy or discolored
Reconnecting the Pump to the Pressure Tank
Once the new pump is in place, it’s time to reconnect it to the pressure tank. Start by wrapping Teflon tape around the threads of the pressure switch and the tank’s inlet. Screw the switch into the tank and tighten it securely. Next, connect the discharge line from the pump to the inlet of the pressure switch. Again, use Teflon tape on the threads and tighten the connection.
Now, install the tee fitting onto the outlet of the pressure switch. Attach the water line leading to the house to one end of the tee, and connect the pressure gauge to the other end. Tighten all connections securely.
Finally, connect the electrical wires from the pump to the pressure switch. Make sure the wires are properly connected to the corresponding terminals on the switch. Double-check all connections to ensure they are snug and secure.
Electrical Connections
| Wire Color | Terminal |
|---|---|
| Black | L1 |
| Red | L2 |
| Green | Ground |
With all connections made, you’re ready to prime the pump and restore water flow to your home.
Re-priming the Pump
8. Re-priming the pump is essential to ensure proper water flow. Follow these steps carefully:
| Tools Required for Re-priming: | |
|---|---|
| – Funnel or hose | – Water |
Connecting Power and Water
Step 9: Connect the Power Cable
Locate the power cable coming from the well and connect it to the pressure switch. Ensure the wires are properly stripped and secured using wire nuts. Tighten the connections securely using a screwdriver.
Next, connect the power cable from the pressure switch to the circuit breaker or fuse box. Turn on the power at the breaker or fuse box to energize the pump.
Check for any loose connections or shorts in the electrical system. If any issues arise, turn off the power and consult an electrician for assistance.
| Wire Color | Connection |
|---|---|
| Black | Pressure switch |
| White | Neutral |
| Green or Bare | Ground |
Step 9b: Connecting the Water Line
Locate the water line coming from the well and connect it to the pump’s discharge port. Ensure the connection is tight and secure using a wrench or pipe wrench.
Next, connect the water line from the pump to the pressure tank. Again, ensure the connection is tight and secure.
Open the main water valve to allow water to flow into the pressure tank and the water lines. Check for any leaks or drips in the system and tighten connections as necessary.
Testing the System
Once the pump has been installed, it’s time to test the system. Here’s how:
Tips:
| Test | Description |
|---|---|
| Leak check | Inspect all connections for leaks. |
| Pressure test | Measure the pressure in the system and adjust it to the desired level. |
| Flow rate test | Measure the amount of water dispensed from the faucet in a given time period. |
| Pressure drop test | Turn off the pump and observe the pressure gauge to see if it remains constant. |
How To Replace A Well Pump
Replacing a well pump can be a daunting task, but it is one that can be completed with the right tools and knowledge. By following these steps, you can ensure that your well pump is replaced correctly and efficiently.
First, you will need to gather the necessary tools and materials. These include a new well pump, a pipe wrench, a pair of pliers, a screwdriver, and a bucket. Once you have gathered your tools, you can begin the process of replacing the well pump.
The first step is to turn off the power to the well pump. This can be done by flipping the breaker in your electrical panel. Once the power is off, you can disconnect the wires from the well pump. Be sure to label the wires so that you can reconnect them correctly later.
Next, you will need to remove the old well pump from the well. To do this, use the pipe wrench to loosen the bolts that hold the pump in place. Once the bolts are loose, you can lift the pump out of the well. Be careful not to drop the pump, as this could damage it.
Once you have removed the old pump, you can install the new pump. To do this, simply reverse the steps that you used to remove the old pump. First, place the new pump in the well and tighten the bolts that hold it in place. Then, reconnect the wires to the pump and turn on the power.
Once the power is on, you can test the new pump to make sure that it is working properly. To do this, simply turn on the water faucet and check to see if water is flowing. If water is flowing, then the new pump is working properly.
People Also Ask
What are the signs that my well pump needs to be replaced?
There are several signs that may indicate that your well pump needs to be replaced. These include:
How long does it take to replace a well pump?
The time it takes to replace a well pump will vary depending on the type of pump and the depth of the well. However, most well pumps can be replaced in a few hours.
How much does it cost to replace a well pump?
The cost to replace a well pump will vary depending on the type of pump and the depth of the well. However, most well pumps cost between $500 and $1,500 to replace.
