How to Prime a Pump for Well Water

If you are a homeowner that relies on well water then maintaining your water pump is important if you want to have a steady and reliable supply of water. One of the important tasks is priming the pump, which means to remove air from the system and fill it with water so that it can operate in the right way. This guide will take you through the steps of priming a well pump, step by step, and explain it in simple terms to help you feel comfortable with doing this task.

Why Do You Need Priming

Before we go into the priming process, it’s critical to know why it’s necessary to prime your well pump. A well pump operates by forming a vacuum that pulls water from the well up through the system and into your house. Nevertheless, air in the pump or pipes may block the water from being satisfactorily drawn up. Priming the pump eliminates this air and re-fills the system with water making the system run efficiently.

Tools and Materials Which You Will Need

In order to prime your well pump, you will need a few basic tools and materials.

Here are a few to help you get started:

- A bucket of water (preferably clean)

- Garden hose

- Screwdriver (flathead or Phillips, as you wish, depending on your pump model).

- Wrench, if needed to open the air bleeder valve.

- Safety gloves and goggles (optional, but recommended).

Safety First

Before you start any work on your well pump, safety should be your first priority. Ensure that the pump’s power supply is switched off to prevent electrical risks. If you don’t know how to do this, refer to the manual for the pump, or contact a professional. Wear gloves and safety goggles to prevent debris or sharp edges from injuring you.

Detailed Procedure for Priming Your Well Pump

Step 1: Find the Pump and Cut-off Valve

First, find your well pump at home where it is normally in the basement, utility room, or a well house. Locate the cut-off valve, which is usually near the pump. This valve regulates the flow of water from the well into your home.

Step 2: Turn Off the Power

Make sure the power supply to the pump is completely switched off. This step is vital to avoid any electrical accidents. Consult the manual of the pump for instructions on how to disconnect power safely.

Step 3: Open the Cut-Off Valve

Open the cut-off valve to let the rest of the water drain from the pump and the pipes. This step is done to detect any air locks and to prepare the system for priming.

Step 4: Go to the Pump’s Air Bleeder Valve.

Find the air bleeder valve of the pump. This valve is generally a small fitting or cap on top or side of the pump. The air bleeder valve is intended to vent trapped air out of the system.

Step 5: Remove the Air Bleeder Cap

Carefully use a screwdriver or wrench to loosen and remove the air bleeder cap. A small portion of water or air can escape once you remove the cap. This is normal and means the air is coming out of the system.

Step 6: Fill the Pump with Water

Pick a bucket of water and gradually pour it into the pump, through the hole where the air bleeder cap used to be. Make sure the water gets to the impeller (the component of the pump that moves the water). You may have to do this several times to expel all the air.

Step 7: Replace the Air Bleeder Cap

After the pump is filled up with water and no more air bubbles can be seen, tighten the air bleeder cap. Ensure it is tightly sealed to avoid any leakage.

Step 8: Close the Cut-Off Valve

After priming the pump, shut the cut-off valve to seal the system. This step makes the pump ready for use.

Step 9: Restore Power to the Pump

Restore power back to the pump. This should be carefully done following the manufacturer’s instructions. After power is restored, the pump should start working normally.

Step 10: Check for Water Flow

Lastly, ensure that water is coming out of the faucets in your house. If water flows freely without air bubbles, the priming process worked. If not, then it is likely that you will need to repeat the priming steps or seek the help of a professional.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Even after doing all above, you may face some problems.

Some common issues and their solutions are as follows:

Air Leaks: If air continues to be leaked into the system, look for leaks in the pipes or fittings. Tighten all loose connection and replace damaged seals if necessary.

Low Water Pressure: In case the water pressure is still too low, check whether the cut-off valve is wide open and there are no blockages in the pipes.

Pump Not Starting: If the pump doesn’t start, check the power supply and check all the connection points to make sure they are tight. Consult the pump’s manual for troubleshooting advice.

When to Seek Professional Help

Although priming a well pump is something many homeowners can do on their own, there are occasions when it is necessary to hire an expert. If you are having persistent problems, or if the pump is old and needs more involved maintenance, the best thing to do is to contact a qualified well pump technician. They are capable and equipped to diagnose and repair more serious issues.