7 Steps to Replace a Submersible Well Pump

[Image of a man replacing a submersible well pump]

Replacing a submersible well pump can be a daunting task, especially if you’ve never done it before. However, with the right tools and a little know-how, it’s a job that can be completed in a few hours. In this step-by-step guide, we’ll walk you through the process of removing your old pump and installing a new one. We’ll also provide some tips for troubleshooting common problems that you may encounter along the way.

Before you begin, it’s important to gather all of the materials that you’ll need. This includes a new submersible well pump, a length of electrical cable, a set of wire strippers and crimpers, a pipe wrench, and a pair of channel locks. You may also need a ladder or scaffolding to reach the well head. Once you have all of your materials, you’re ready to get started.

The first step is to disconnect the power to the well pump. This can be done at the circuit breaker panel or by removing the fuse from the pump’s control box. Once the power is off, you can begin to remove the old pump. To do this, you’ll need to disconnect the electrical cable from the pump and then unscrew the discharge pipe from the well head. Once the pump is disconnected, you can carefully lift it out of the well. Be sure to use a rope or chain to help you lift the pump, as it can be quite heavy.

Identifying the Need for Replacement

Regular maintenance and servicing can extend the lifespan of a submersible well pump, but eventually, it may come to the point where replacement is necessary. Recognizing the signs of a failing pump is crucial to prevent further damage to your water system.

Signs of a Failing Pump

Reduced Water Flow: If you notice a decrease in water pressure or flow from your faucets, it could indicate a problem with your pump. It may struggle to draw water from the well, resulting in less water reaching your home.
Unusual Noises: A humming or vibrating sound coming from the well can be a sign of a failing pump. The pump’s impeller may be worn or damaged, causing it to make noise.
Pump Cycling Frequently: If your pump turns on and off frequently, it could be a sign of a faulty pressure switch or a failing pump. Constant cycling can put unnecessary strain on the pump and shorten its lifespan.
Water Quality Issues: If you notice a change in the taste, smell, or appearance of your water, it could indicate contamination or pump damage. The pump may not be filtering or pumping water properly.
Age of the Pump: The average lifespan of a submersible well pump is around 10 years. If your pump is approaching or exceeding this age, it’s wise to start considering a replacement.

Sign of a Failing Pump	Possible Explanation
Reduced Water Flow	Worn impeller, clogged filter, or faulty pressure switch
Unusual Noises	Damaged impeller, failing capacitor, or loose bolts
Pump Cycling Frequently	Faulty pressure switch, air in the system, or weak pump
Water Quality Issues	Damaged pump components, worn seals, or contamination in the well
Age of the Pump	General wear and tear, decreased efficiency, or component failure

Ignoring these signs can lead to further problems, such as water damage, loss of water supply, or even more costly repairs. If you suspect your submersible well pump is failing, it’s essential to contact a qualified plumber or well technician for an evaluation and replacement if necessary.

Safety Considerations

Replacing a submersible well pump involves working with electricity and water, which can be dangerous if not handled properly. Therefore, safety should be the top priority throughout the process. Here are some essential safety considerations:

Electrical Safety

– Always turn off the power to the well pump at the breaker panel before starting any work.
– Use a non-conductive ladder or platform when working on the well.
– Wear rubber gloves and boots for insulation.
– If there is any sign of electrical damage, do not attempt the repair yourself. Contact a qualified electrician immediately.

Water Safety

– The borehole where the pump is located can contain harmful bacteria. Wear appropriate protective gear, including gloves and a mask.
– Keep the well area clean and free of debris to prevent contamination.
– If you encounter any unexpected water flow or leakage, stop working immediately and seek professional help.

General Safety

– Have a helper present for safety and assistance.
– Use the proper tools and equipment for the job.
– Be aware of any potential hazards, such as slippery surfaces or heavy objects.
– Take frequent breaks to avoid fatigue and stay focused.
– If you feel uncomfortable or unsure about any aspect of the replacement, do not hesitate to consult a professional.

Materials and Tools Required

1. New Submersible Pump

First and foremost, you will need a new submersible pump. When selecting a pump, consider the depth of your well, the desired flow rate, and the available power supply.

2. Electrical Cable

You will also need electrical cable to connect the pump to the power supply. Choose a cable with the appropriate gauge and length, based on the pump’s electrical requirements and the distance to the power source.

3. Plumbing Fittings

A variety of plumbing fittings are required to connect the pump to the well casing and discharge pipe. These typically include:

Discharge Check Valve: Prevents backflow of water into the pump when it is turned off.
Pitless Adapter: Facilitates the passage of the electrical cable and discharge pipe through the well casing.
Union: Allows for easy disassembly or replacement of the pump.
Nipple: Connects the discharge check valve to the discharge pipe.
Tee Fitting: Creates a branch in the discharge pipe to connect additional components, such as a pressure tank.

Fitting	Purpose
Discharge Check Valve	Prevents water backflow
Pitless Adapter	Facilitates cable/pipe passage
Union	Enables easy pump disassembly
Nipple	Connects check valve to discharge pipe
Tee Fitting	Creates a discharge pipe branch

Disconnecting Electrical Power

First and foremost, safety should be your top priority when working with electricity. To ensure a safe and successful replacement, it’s crucial to disconnect the electrical power supply to your well pump before proceeding with any further steps. Follow these steps to safely disconnect the electrical power:

1. Turn Off the Circuit Breaker

Locate the circuit breaker panel, typically found in the basement, garage, or utility area. Identify the circuit breaker labeled “Well Pump” and switch it to the “Off” position. Leave the circuit breaker panel open for added safety during the replacement process.

2. Unplug the Well Pump Control Box

Locate the electrical control box, usually mounted near the well head. Inside the box, you’ll find the wires connected to the pump. Carefully disconnect the wires from the terminals and cap the wires securely using electrical tape.

3. Remove the Pressure Switch Wires

In addition to the pump wires, you may also find wires connected to the pressure switch. These wires should also be disconnected and capped for safety. Double-check that all wires are properly capped to prevent any accidental electrical contact.

4. Grounding the System

To ensure complete electrical safety, it’s important to ground the well system before disconnecting the pump. This can be done by wrapping a grounding wire around the well casing and connecting it to a grounding rod driven into the ground. The grounding wire should be at least 6 feet long and made of solid copper.

Grounding	Description
Wrap grounding wire around well casing	Connect to grounding rod driven into ground
Grounding wire length	At least 6 feet long
Grounding wire material	Solid copper

Removing the Old Pump

1. **Disconnect the power source.** Locate the circuit breaker or fuse that controls the well pump and turn it off. Test the power by turning on a light switch or plugging in a lamp to ensure that the power is disconnected.

2. **Close the water supply valve.** Find the water supply valve located in the house or near the wellhead and turn it off. This will prevent water from flowing into the well while you are working.

3. **Disconnect the electrical cable and drop pipe.** Unscrew the electrical cable and the drop pipe connections from the wellhead. Lower the electrical cable and drop pipe into the well using a rope or chain. Be careful not to damage the cable or pipe.

4. **Remove the discharge pipe.** Unscrew the discharge pipe connection from the wellhead. Pull the pipe up and out of the wellhead.

5. **Retrieve the old pump.** Lower a retrieval tool, such as a grab hook or grappling hook, into the well. Attach the tool to the old pump and carefully pull it up and out of the well. Take care not to damage the pump or the well casing.

Additional Tips for Removing the Old Pump
Wear gloves and safety glasses to protect yourself from debris and sharp edges.
Use a flashlight or headlamp to illuminate the wellhead and the pump.
If the pump is stuck or difficult to remove, do not force it. Use a penetrating oil or lubricant to loosen the connections.

Installing the New Pump

1. Lower the new pump into the well casing using the safety rope. Do not let the pump hit the bottom of the casing or it could be damaged.
2. Once the pump is in place, connect the power cable and the discharge pipe to the pump.
3. Tighten the connections using a wrench or pliers.
4. Fill the well casing with water. This will help to lubricate the pump and prevent it from burning out.
5. Turn on the power to the pump. The pump should start running and pumping water.
6. Check for leaks around the connections. If there are any leaks, tighten the connections until they are leak-free. You should see water coming out of the discharge pipe, which may be connected to a hose that runs to your house or other destination. If there is no water coming out, check to make sure the pump is running. If the pump is running and there is still no water, there may be a problem with the pump or the well.

After you have ensured that the new pump is installed and running properly, you can remove the old pump from the well. To remove the old pump, follow these steps:

Old Pump	New Pump
1. Disconnect the power cable and the discharge pipe from the old pump.	1. Lower the new pump into the well casing using the safety rope. Do not let the pump hit the bottom of the casing or it could be damaged.
2. Remove the safety rope from the old pump.	2. Once the new pump is in place, connect the power cable and the discharge pipe to the pump.
3. Lift the old pump out of the well casing.	3. Tighten the connections using a wrench or pliers.
4. Dispose of the old pump properly.	4. Fill the well casing with water. This will help to lubricate the pump and prevent it from burning out.
	5. Turn on the power to the pump. The pump should start running and pumping water.
	6. Check for leaks around the connections. If there are any leaks, tighten the connections until they are leak-free. You should see water coming out of the discharge pipe, which may be connected to a hose that runs to your house or other destination. If there is no water coming out, check to make sure the pump is running. If the pump is running and there is still no water, there may be a problem with the pump or the well.

Connecting the Electrical System

Connecting the electrical system is a critical step in replacing a submersible well pump. Follow these steps to ensure a safe and proper connection:

Turn off the power: Before starting any electrical work, turn off the power to the well pump at the breaker panel.
Disconnect the old wires: Remove the old pump wires from the pressure switch and splice them together using wire nuts.
Install a junction box: Install a waterproof junction box near the well head to house the electrical connections.
Connect the new wires: Run the new pump wires to the junction box and splice them to the wires from the pressure switch.
Use wire nuts: Secure all electrical connections with water-resistant wire nuts.
Insulate the connections: Cover the wire nuts with electrical tape or shrink tubing to protect them from moisture.
Seal the junction box: Install a watertight cover on the junction box to prevent moisture from entering.
Double-check the connections: Carefully inspect all electrical connections to ensure they are secure and insulated properly.

Electrical Wiring Table:

Wire Color	Purpose
Black	Pump Motor (Line 1)
White	Pump Motor (Line 2)
Green or Bare Copper	Ground

Priming the Pump

Once the pump is installed, it must be primed before it can start pumping water. Priming involves filling the pump and discharge pipe with water to remove all air pockets. This is necessary because pumps cannot pump air efficiently. The process of priming a submersible well pump typically involves the following steps:

1. Connect the discharge pipe to the pump

Screw the discharge pipe onto the threaded outlet port on the pump.

2. Fill the discharge pipe with water

Using a hose or bucket, pour water into the discharge pipe until it is full.

3. Seal the discharge pipe

Once the discharge pipe is full, screw on the pipe cap or other sealing device to prevent water from leaking out.

4. Open the bleed valve

If your pump has a bleed valve, open it slightly to release any trapped air. Keep the valve open until a steady stream of water flows out.

5. Close the bleed valve

Once a steady stream of water is flowing from the bleed valve, close it to seal the pump.

6. Open the discharge valve

Open the valve on the discharge pipe to allow water to flow into the pressure tank.

7. Monitor the pressure gauge

As the pressure tank fills, the pressure gauge will rise. Once the pressure reaches about 20 psi, the pump will automatically start pumping water.

8. Purge the air from the system

After the pump has started pumping water, check for any remaining air pockets in the system. If you hear any gurgling or sputtering sounds, there may still be air trapped in the pipes. To remove the air, open a faucet or hose bib at the highest point in the system and let the water flow until the air is purged.

Testing the Pump

Once the pump is installed, it’s crucial to test its functionality to ensure it’s working correctly. Follow these steps for pump testing:

Prepare the well: Disinfect the well and secure the pump’s discharge pipe to the well casing.
Prime the pump: Fill the pump’s casing and pipes with water to displace air and ensure proper suction.
Connect the power source: Turn on the power supply to the pump, allowing it to run and fill the discharge line with water.
Check for flow: Open a faucet or valve connected to the pump’s discharge line and observe the water flow. It should be a steady stream with no interruptions.
Tune the pressure switch: If the pump cycles on and off frequently, adjust the pressure switch to set the desired operating pressure.
Check for leaks: Inspect all connections and seals for any leaks. Tighten loose fittings and replace faulty seals as necessary.
Monitor the pump’s performance: Observe the pump’s behavior for a few hours to ensure it’s operating smoothly and maintaining the desired water pressure.
Record the start and stop pressures: Use a pressure gauge to measure the pump’s start and stop pressures and record them for future troubleshooting.
Inspect the pump and well regularly: Periodically check the pump’s operation, clean the well, and ensure the water quality meets safety standards.

If you encounter any issues during pump testing, refer to the manufacturer’s instructions or seek professional assistance from a qualified technician.

Ongoing Maintenance

Once your submersible well pump is installed and operating properly, there are a few ongoing maintenance tasks that you should perform regularly to keep it running smoothly.

Check the water level in your well regularly. The water level should be at least 1 foot above the top of the pump.
Inspect the pump and electrical connections for any damage. Look for loose wires, corrosion, or leaks.
Run the pump for a few minutes every month to keep it primed and lubricated.
Have the pump serviced by a qualified technician every 2-3 years.

Troubleshooting

If you are experiencing problems with your submersible well pump, there are a few things you can do to troubleshoot the issue.

Check the water level in your well. If the water level is too low, the pump will not be able to operate properly.
Inspect the pump and electrical connections for any damage. Look for loose wires, corrosion, or leaks.
Try resetting the pump. To do this, turn off the power to the pump and then turn it back on.
If the problem persists, you may need to replace the pump.

Common Problems and Solutions

Problem	Solution
Pump is not running	Check the power supply to the pump. Reset the pump. Replace the pump if necessary.
Pump is running but not pumping water	Check the water level in the well. Inspect the pump and electrical connections for damage. Clean the pump impeller.
Pump is making noise	Inspect the pump and electrical connections for damage. Lubricate the pump. Replace the pump if necessary.
Pump is leaking water	Inspect the pump and electrical connections for damage. Tighten or replace any loose or damaged parts. Replace the pump if necessary.

How to Replace a Submersible Well Pump

Replacing a submersible well pump can be a daunting task, but it is not impossible.

You will need the following tools:

A new submersible well pump
A pair of pliers
A wrench
A bucket
A rope
A ladder

Once you have gathered your tools, you can begin the process of replacing your submersible well pump.

Turn off the power to your well. This is important for safety reasons.
Disconnect the power cable from the pump.
Remove the bolts that hold the pump in place.
Carefully lift the pump out of the well.
Attach the new pump to the power cable.
Lower the new pump into the well.
Tighten the bolts that hold the pump in place.
Reconnect the power cable to the pump.
Turn on the power to your well.
Test the pump to make sure it is working properly.

How To Replace A Submersible Well Pump
January 22, 2024 by sadmin