DIY Guide: Replacing Your Well Pump – Step-by-Step Instructions

Replacing a well pump can seem like a daunting task, but with the right preparation, tools, and a bit of know-how, it’s a project many homeowners can tackle themselves. This comprehensive guide will walk you through each step of the process, from diagnosing the problem to safely installing a new pump and ensuring your water flows freely again. Before you begin, **safety is paramount**. Always disconnect the power to the well pump circuit and relieve any water pressure in the system.

Why Replace Your Well Pump?

Well pumps, like any mechanical device, have a lifespan. Over time, they can wear out, become less efficient, or fail altogether. Here are some common signs that your well pump needs replacing:

* **Reduced Water Pressure:** A noticeable drop in water pressure throughout your home is a common indicator.
* **Inconsistent Water Flow:** Sporadic or pulsating water flow suggests the pump is struggling.
* **No Water at All:** This is the most obvious sign of a pump failure, though it could also be caused by other issues like a tripped breaker or a leak in the system.
* **Strange Noises:** Unusual grinding, gurgling, or banging sounds coming from the well or pressure tank area often point to a pump problem.
* **Dirty or Murky Water:** This can indicate a failing pump seal or a problem with the well itself, but it’s worth investigating.
* **Tripped Breaker:** A frequently tripped breaker on the well pump circuit can be a sign that the pump is drawing too much power, often due to wear and tear.
* **Age of the Pump:** Most well pumps last between 10 and 15 years. If your pump is approaching this age, it may be time to consider a replacement, even if it’s still functioning.

Types of Well Pumps

Before you begin, you need to identify the type of well pump you have. The two main types are:

* **Submersible Well Pumps:** These pumps are submerged in the well water and push water up to the surface. They are the most common type for deeper wells (typically over 25 feet).
* **Jet Pumps:** These pumps are located above ground and use suction to pull water up from the well. They are typically used for shallower wells (25 feet or less).

This guide focuses primarily on replacing **submersible well pumps**, as they are more common. However, the principles are similar for jet pumps, though the specific steps may vary slightly. If you have a jet pump, consult your pump’s manual or a qualified professional for specific instructions.

Safety First!

* **Disconnect Power:** Turn off the breaker that controls the well pump. Use a voltage tester to confirm the power is off at the well pump wires before touching anything.
* **Relieve Water Pressure:** Turn off the water supply to your house at the main shut-off valve. Open a faucet at the lowest point in your house (e.g., a basement faucet or an outdoor spigot) to relieve any remaining water pressure in the system.
* **Wear Safety Gear:** Wear safety glasses, work gloves, and sturdy shoes. Consider wearing hearing protection if the pump is particularly noisy.
* **Get Help:** Replacing a well pump can be a physically demanding job. Enlist the help of a friend or family member, especially when lifting the pump and piping out of the well.
* **Call a Professional:** If you’re uncomfortable with any part of this process, or if you encounter any unexpected issues, don’t hesitate to call a qualified well pump technician.

Tools and Materials You’ll Need

* **New Well Pump:** Make sure you get the correct size and type of pump for your well. Check the specifications of your old pump to ensure compatibility.
* **Safety Glasses**
* **Work Gloves**
* **New Well Pump Wiring (Submersible Cable):** Use the correct gauge wire for the pump’s voltage and horsepower rating. Consult the pump’s manual or a qualified electrician for guidance.
* **Electrical Tape (Submersible Grade):** Use submersible-grade electrical tape designed for use in wet environments.
* **Wire Connectors (Waterproof):** Use waterproof wire connectors to ensure a secure and watertight connection.
* **New Check Valve:** A check valve prevents water from flowing back down the well when the pump shuts off. It’s a good idea to replace it whenever you replace the pump.
* **New Pitless Adapter O-Ring (If Applicable):** If your well has a pitless adapter, replace the O-ring to ensure a watertight seal.
* **Pipe Wrench or Adjustable Wrench:** For disconnecting and connecting pipes.
* **Wire Strippers/Crimpers:** For preparing and connecting electrical wires.
* **Multi-meter (Voltage Tester):** For verifying power is off.
* **Measuring Tape:** For measuring the depth of the well and the length of the piping.
* **Rope or Cable:** Strong rope or cable to lift the pump out of the well.
* **Well Seal:** A new well seal is recommended to ensure contaminants can’t enter the well.
* **PVC Primer and Cement (If Applicable):** For connecting PVC pipes.
* **Pipe Thread Sealant (Teflon Tape or Pipe Dope):** For sealing threaded pipe connections.
* **Pen and Paper/Camera:** For taking notes and pictures of the existing setup before you disassemble it.
* **Bucket or Container:** For collecting water and debris.
* **Shovel:** For digging around the well casing if necessary.
* **Pump Puller (Optional):** A pump puller can make the job of lifting the pump out of the well easier and safer, especially for deeper wells.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Replacing a Submersible Well Pump

**Step 1: Preparation and Safety**

1. **Turn off the Power:** Locate the circuit breaker that controls the well pump and turn it off. Use a voltage tester to confirm that the power is off at the well pump wires.
2. **Relieve Water Pressure:** Turn off the main water supply to your house and open a faucet at the lowest point to relieve pressure.
3. **Gather Tools and Materials:** Make sure you have all the necessary tools and materials on hand before you begin.
4. **Document the Existing Setup:** Take pictures and notes of how the existing pump and piping are connected. This will be helpful when you reassemble everything.
5. **Clear the Area:** Clear any debris or obstructions around the well casing to give yourself plenty of room to work.

**Step 2: Accessing the Well**

1. **Remove the Well Cap:** Carefully remove the well cap. It may be bolted or screwed in place. Be careful not to drop anything down the well.
2. **Inspect the Well Casing:** Examine the well casing for any signs of damage or corrosion. If you find any damage, contact a qualified well contractor.

**Step 3: Disconnecting the Old Pump**

1. **Disconnect the Wiring:** Carefully disconnect the electrical wires from the pump. Note the color-coding of the wires for reconnection. Use waterproof wire connectors to disconnect the wires and tape the ends with submersible-grade electrical tape to prevent shorts.
2. **Detach the Piping:** Disconnect the piping from the pump. This may involve unscrewing threaded connections or cutting PVC pipes. If you’re cutting PVC pipes, use a PVC cutter or saw and make clean, straight cuts.
3. **Attach the Rope or Cable:** Securely attach the rope or cable to the pump. Make sure the rope or cable is strong enough to support the weight of the pump and the piping.

**Step 4: Removing the Old Pump**

1. **Slowly Lift the Pump:** Carefully and slowly lift the pump out of the well. Be careful not to snag the pump or piping on the well casing. Have a helper guide the pipe as it comes out of the well.
2. **Drain the Water:** As you lift the pump, allow the water to drain out of the piping. This will make the pump lighter and easier to handle.
3. **Inspect the Old Pump:** Once the pump is out of the well, inspect it for any signs of damage or wear. This can help you diagnose the cause of the pump failure.

**Step 5: Preparing the New Pump**

1. **Attach the Check Valve:** Install a new check valve to the top of the new pump. Use pipe thread sealant (Teflon tape or pipe dope) on the threads to ensure a watertight seal. Make sure the check valve is installed in the correct orientation (the arrow on the valve should point upwards).
2. **Connect the Piping:** Connect the piping to the new pump. Use PVC primer and cement if you’re connecting PVC pipes. Use pipe thread sealant on threaded connections. Ensure the connection is tight and secure.
3. **Splice and Waterproof the Wiring:** Using the correct waterproof wire connectors, splice the submersible cable to the pump’s wires, matching the correct colors. Crimp the connectors tightly and wrap liberally with submersible electrical tape, staggering each layer for maximum protection. Double-check your wiring connections against your notes or photos to ensure they are correct. A bad connection will cause the pump to fail prematurely.

**Step 6: Lowering the New Pump into the Well**

1. **Slowly Lower the Pump:** Carefully and slowly lower the new pump into the well. Be careful not to snag the pump or piping on the well casing. Ensure the electrical cable is secured to the pipe every 10-20 feet with waterproof tape or cable ties. This prevents the cable from chafing against the well casing.
2. **Guide the Piping:** Have a helper guide the piping as you lower the pump. This will help prevent the piping from kinking or bending.
3. **Lower to the Correct Depth:** Lower the pump to the same depth as the old pump. Use the measuring tape to verify the depth. Typically, the pump should be submerged at least 5-10 feet below the lowest water level in the well.

**Step 7: Connecting the Wiring and Piping at the Surface**

1. **Connect the Wiring:** Connect the electrical wires from the pump to the wiring in the well house or control box. Use waterproof wire connectors and submersible-grade electrical tape.
2. **Connect the Piping:** Connect the piping from the pump to the water supply line. Use pipe thread sealant on threaded connections. Ensure the connections are tight and secure.

**Step 8: Securing the Well Cap**

1. **Install a New Well Seal:** Install a new well seal to prevent contaminants from entering the well. Ensure a proper seal to keep insects and debris out of your water supply.
2. **Secure the Well Cap:** Secure the well cap in place. Bolt or screw it down as needed.

**Step 9: Testing the New Pump**

1. **Turn on the Power:** Turn the circuit breaker back on.
2. **Monitor the Pressure Tank:** Listen for the pressure tank to fill with water. The pump should run until the pressure tank reaches its cut-off pressure (typically 40-60 psi).
3. **Check for Leaks:** Inspect all the connections for leaks. Tighten any connections that are leaking.
4. **Flush the System:** Open a faucet and let the water run for several minutes to flush out any air or debris from the system.

**Step 10: Final Checks and Adjustments**

1. **Check Water Pressure:** Verify that the water pressure is consistent throughout your home.
2. **Monitor the Pump Cycling:** Observe how often the pump cycles on and off. The pump should not cycle on and off too frequently. Short cycling can damage the pump.
3. **Adjust Pressure Switch (If Necessary):** If the pump is short cycling, you may need to adjust the pressure switch. Consult the pressure switch’s manual or a qualified professional for guidance.
4. **Sanitize the Well:** As a precaution, consider sanitizing the well after replacing the pump. This can help kill any bacteria that may have entered the well during the replacement process. You can typically use household bleach to sanitize the well, but follow the instructions carefully.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

* **Pump Won’t Start:**
* Check the circuit breaker.
* Verify that the power is reaching the pump.
* Check the wiring connections.
* The pump may be faulty.
* **Pump Runs but No Water:**
* Check the check valve.
* The pump may be air-locked. Try priming the pump (for jet pumps).
* The well may be dry.
* The impeller may be damaged.
* **Low Water Pressure:**
* Check the pressure tank.
* The pump may be undersized.
* There may be a leak in the system.
* The well may be low on water.
* **Short Cycling:**
* Check the pressure tank.
* Adjust the pressure switch.
* There may be a leak in the system.

Maintaining Your Well Pump

* **Regular Inspections:** Have your well and pump inspected by a qualified professional every few years.
* **Monitor Water Quality:** Test your water regularly for bacteria and other contaminants.
* **Keep the Well Area Clean:** Keep the area around the well casing free of debris and vegetation.
* **Protect from Freezing:** Protect the well and pump from freezing temperatures.
* **Consider a Well Cover:** Consider installing a well cover to protect the well from the elements and prevent debris from entering.

When to Call a Professional

While replacing a well pump can be a DIY project, there are times when it’s best to call a qualified professional:

* **You’re Not Comfortable with Electrical Work:** Working with electricity can be dangerous. If you’re not comfortable with electrical work, leave it to the professionals.
* **You’re Not Comfortable Lifting Heavy Objects:** Well pumps and piping can be heavy. If you’re not comfortable lifting heavy objects, get help from a friend or hire a professional.
* **You Encounter Unexpected Issues:** If you encounter any unexpected issues during the replacement process, it’s best to call a qualified professional.
* **You’re Not Sure What You’re Doing:** If you’re not sure what you’re doing, it’s best to err on the side of caution and call a qualified professional.

Conclusion

Replacing a well pump is a significant undertaking, but with careful planning, preparation, and attention to detail, it’s a project that many homeowners can successfully complete themselves. By following these step-by-step instructions and taking the necessary safety precautions, you can save money and ensure a reliable water supply for your home. Remember, when in doubt, consult with a qualified well pump professional.