How to Replace a Submersible Water Well Pump

Most households that draw their water supply from wells need submersible well pumps as their vital water extraction component. The regular operation of submersible water well pumps leads to wear over time until they need replacement. The replacement of these submersible water well pumps presents an achievable project to people who possess basic plumbing and electrical skills as long as proper tools and instructions are used for this task. The following instructions will show you how to replace submersible water well pumps.

Understanding Submersible Water Well Pumps

The replacement process requires knowledge about submersible water well pumps as well as their operational principles. The submersible water well pump is placed inside the well under water. The pressure-generating mechanism of this pump enables it to lift water to the surface instead of using a traditional water suction method. Submersible water well pumps deliver excellent performance in wells with depths between 25 feet and 400 feet and beyond.

Your submersible well pump requires replacement when these indicators appear:

- Loss of water pressure

- Water running intermittently or not at all

- Unusual noises from the pump

- Interruption in pump operation or failure to run

- Pump has surpassed more than 10 years of service

Tools and Materials Needed

The replacement process of a submersible water well pump requires the use of various tools and specific materials.

The following list contains all necessary materials for the job:

- Replacement submersible pump (sized according to your well’s specifications)

- Adjustable wrenches

- Pipe wrenches

- PVC pipe cutter

- Pliers

- Electrical tape

- Screwdrivers (flathead and Phillips)

- Rope or chain (for pulling the pump)

- Buckets (to remove water from the well)

- New electrical wiring and connectors (if necessary)

- Teflon tape

- Well cap and pipe fittings

- Safety gear (gloves, goggles)

 

Step-by-Step Guide to Replacing the Submersible Pump

Step 1: Turn Off the Power

First, start the replacement process by disconnecting power from the well pump. Locate the circuit breaker that powers the pump; then use it to cut off power before electrical accidents occur.

Step 2: Drain the Pressure Tank

The next step before removing the pump from the well is to drain fluid from the pressure tank. The faucet near the pressure tank allows you to drain pressure while simplifying the pump disconnection process from the rest of the system.

Step 3: Disconnect the Electrical Wiring

The following operation requires you to detach the electrical cables that supply power to the submersible pump. A junction box exists on the pump to connect its electrical wires. The cover can be removed with a screwdriver before the wires receive careful disconnection. Note down the wire terminal connections to reconnect them correctly after pump maintenance.

Step 4: Remove the Well Cap and Discharge Pipe

Disconnect the electrical wiring before proceeding to remove the well cap that sits atop the well casing. The pipe wrenches allow you to remove the discharge pipe that extends from the pump to the surface plumbing. Take out the discharge pipe together with all attached components. Save all components that might be required during the new pump installation process.

Step 5: Remove the Old Pump

The majority of submersible pumps get attached to the well casing through steel cables as well as nylon ropes and chains. Securely knot the top of the pump when it uses a rope for attachment. You should use the chain to extract the pump from its place.

To remove the pump, you should gently move the pump back and forth as you pull it upward to create space for removal. Take care when removing the pump because damage to components could occur.

Step 6: Inspect the Pump and Well Casing

Check the well casing for damage and accumulated debris after removing the old pump from the well. Before putting in the new pump, take the time to clean the casing completely when sand, sediment, and/or mineral buildup are present.

Check the old pump for indications of wear and damage before removing it from the well. Look for signs of broken impellers and damaged wiring or corroded parts, especially if the pump has had a loss of pressure or continuous operation.

Step 7: Prepare the New Pump

Check the size of your well when selecting the new submersible pump since it needs to fit properly. The selection of a pump must correspond to your well depth along with your water output requirements and electrical setup.

The new pump requires installation of discharge pipe and electrical wiring connectors together with all included accessories. Apply Teflon tape to threads before installation to achieve leakproof connections.

Step 8: Lower the New Pump into the Well

The prepared new pump stands ready for descent back into the well, but it requires a secure rope attachment before lowering it into the well.

To lower the pump with a chain you should attach it to the pump before proceeding with careful descent. When ready, lower the pump at a steady pace. Check the pump alignment with discharge pipe while carefully inserting electrical wires through the well casing.

The installation process requires proper positioning and stability for the pump inside the well.

Step 9: Reconnect the Electrical Wiring

You should reconnect the electrical wires to the junction box after putting the new pump into position. Connect each wire exactly as the diagram shows using the information that came with your new pump. Check all electrical connections for security before applying electrical tape to protect wires from water exposure.

Step 10: Reinstall the Discharge Pipe and Well Cap

After securing the electrical connections, you can reinstall the discharge pipe and well cap. Connect the discharge pipe to the pump’s outlet and tighten it with a wrench. Ensure the pipe is aligned and that there are no leaks. After securing the pipe, replace the well cap.

Step 11: Test the New Pump

Turn the power back on and check to see if the new pump is working properly. Open a faucet to allow water to flow through the system. Monitor the pump to ensure it is running smoothly, and check the water pressure to make certain it is within the recommended range. The typical pressure should be between 30-50 psi.

Step 12: Check for Leaks and Adjust the Pressure

Once the pump is running, check all connections for leaks. If you notice any leaking at the discharge pipe or fittings, tighten them as needed. If the water pressure is too high or too low, adjust the pressure switch accordingly.

Step 13: Clean Up

After confirming that the new pump is functioning correctly, clean up the work area and dispose of any old parts or debris. Make sure that all tools and materials are properly stored.