If you live on the outskirts of the city, you may get your water supply from a well. The heart of your well system is the pump. If the water is close to ground level, your shallow well may be running with a jet pump, and if your water is deeper than 25 feet (7.63 m), then you may be using a submersible pump. If the pump is damaged, you may need to install a new pump. Follow the guide below to replace your well pump.
Step
Part 1 of 3: Preparation
Step 1. Buy a new pump
- Determine the type of pump you need. Underground pumps are used in deeper wells and will be located underground within a well, while jet pumps are used in shallow wells with a depth of less than 7.63 meters and will be located above ground.
- Find out the power rating, the number of liters of water pumped per minute, and the size of the well before you install a new pump.
- Find a well pump at a water supply retail store, hardware store, or online. When replacing a well pump, make sure you buy the correct type of pump.
Step 2. Turn off the power to your pump on its main circuit switch
A circuit switch controls the flow of electricity to your home, and the switch for this well should be on a separate knob.
Step 3. Prepare the hose or turn on the faucet to remove all pressure from the holding tank or pressure tank, by allowing the water to drain
When you install a new well pump, you must absorb any remaining water from the pump system.
Part 2 of 3: Replacing the Jet Pump
Step 1. Use a plumber's special wrench to remove the inner and outer connections of the old well pump
Step 2. Remove the bolts from the cables on the old jet pump using a screwdriver
Step 3. Remove the old pump
Step 4. Use Teflon pipe tape on the outer and inner pipe joints, looping it around each pipe at least 5 times to ensure a tight seal
When replacing a well pump, you need to use a good seal system to prevent water leakage.
Step 5. Install the new pump following the pump manufacturer's instructions
- Tighten the pipe bolt from the well (deep pipe) to the inner pipe in the jet pump using a wrench.
- Tighten the pipe that carries water to the housing (outer pipe) to the outside pipe on the jet pump using a wrench.
Step 6. Connect the wires to the new pump by matching the colors
Secure these wires to the electrical terminals using a screwdriver.
Step 7. Turn the switch back on and try your new pump
Part 3 of 3: Replacing the Underground Pump
Step 1. Unscrew the well
This cap sits on a round piece of metal protruding from a deep well, and will give you access to the underground pump.
- Remove the hexagon nut securing the lid using a socket type wrench.
- Lift the lid.
Step 2. Remove the old pump from the well with a winch
The hoist has the power to pull an underground pump without damaging the well or injuring yourself.
Step 3. Remove the drain line from the top of the pump with a wrench
When replacing a well pump, you must use the drain line again, which will connect the pump to the main water tank of your water system.
Step 4. Follow the manufacturer's directions to install your new pump
Step 5. Use cleaning fluid to clean the well walls
When installing a new well pump, dust may fall onto the walls, and this can cause problems in the future.
Step 6. Lower the subterranean pump into the well wall with a hoist after you have installed the drain line
Step 7. Return the well cap and tighten the hexagon nut to attach it
Step 8. Turn the power switch back on and try your new pump
Tips
- Not all jet pumps have a 1-way valve. When you buy a jet pump, look for a pump that has a 1-way valve, or buy a 1-way valve and use it in your irrigation system.
- Check the decompressor line installed on your underground pump for obstructions on a regular basis. Do this to prevent flooding or pump damage.
