Are well pumps easy to replace?

Author: Paul Johnston  |  Last update: Tuesday, August 12, 2025

Replacing a well pump can be challenging due to the technical skills and specialized tools required. For deep well jet pumps, the complexity increases as they are located several feet below the surface, requiring knowledge of how to safely pull water up from the well.

How difficult is it to replace a well pump?

It could be quite difficult. A deep well with a submersible will first need the power disconnected, the Pitless unit removed, and the existing pump pulled. Then a screen, check valve and perhaps over 100 feet of pipe would need to be lowered, the pump attached and primed, which means hauling in...

How expensive is it to replace a well pump?

The average cost to replace a well pump is $1,889, but most spend between $974 to $2,813 depending on the pump size you need. The average well pump replacement cost is $1,889, but the total depends on many different factors, from the type and size of the pump to the depth of the well.

How long does it take to replace a well pump?

HOW LONG DOES A WELL PUMP REPLACEMENT TAKE? The length of time it takes for a complete well pump replacement varies. The experienced well pump plumbers of Team Austin have most well pumps installed in 8-10 hours.

Do plumbers replace well pumps?

Plumbing contractors - Many plumbing contractors offer well pump repair services, and may have experience working with a variety of well pump systems.

The best on YouTube How to remove A Well pump and every check possible + cool trick cheap.

Does homeowners insurance cover well pumps?

So to recap; homeowner's insurance does not normally cover pump replacement or servicing. If it does, it's probably due to weather anomalies that would also have ended up damaging a significant portion of your home. You'll need to check your specific policy for a weather peril clause.

What is the life expectancy of a well pump?

With proper well maintenance, your new well pump can last, on average, 8 to 15 years, though many homeowners report their pumps lasting far longer, often between 20 and 30 years!

How do you tell if a well pump is going bad?

Some of the most common indicators of a faulty well pump and pressure tank include:
  1. Fluctuations in Water Pressure. ...
  2. Noisy Pressure Tank or Clicking Sounds. ...
  3. Spitting Faucets. ...
  4. Scalding Shower Water. ...
  5. High Electric Bills.

How often do well pumps go bad?

The average lifespan of a well pump is 15-25 years, and you will typically start to notice more issues with your pump as it ages like an increase in repairs, changes in water pressure or increasing utility costs.

How do you tell if you need a new well pump?

5 Common Indicators of a Faulty Water Well Pump
  1. You Have No Water. If you have no water at all when you turn on your faucet or flush the toilet, there's definitely something wrong with your well pump. ...
  2. Fluctuating Water Pressure. ...
  3. Spitting Faucets. ...
  4. Boiling Hot Showers. ...
  5. Increase in Electric Bills.

What happens if well pump goes out?

If the pump stops working completely, your water will stop working, too. You'll notice this if you try to turn on a faucet or flush a toilet and no water comes out.

Can you replace a water pump yourself?

Fixing a water pump refers to the process of replacing an essential part of your vehicle's cooling system. It is one of the least complicated procedures to carry out, as far as auto repairs go, so almost anyone who can operate a wrench can do this on their own.

How much does it cost to inspect a well pump?

How Much Does a Well Inspection Cost? An average well inspection ranges from $300 to $500. This depends on the inspector's rates as well as the type of water tests they intend to conduct to check water quality. It also depends on whether they provide a septic inspection as well.

Who to call to replace a well pump?

However, it's always a good idea to hire a certified plumber to repair or replace well pumps and water pumps. Certified professionals are far more likely to get the job done correctly and prevent future issues, which is especially important for ensuring access to clean water for your home.

What burns out a well pump?

Malfunctioning Well Pump Pressure Switch

A malfunctioning switch can cause the pump to run too often or too long and potentially burn out the motor. In addition, if the switch allows the pressure to go too high, it can put excess stress on the tank and pipes, potentially causing them to crack or even burst.

How much is labor to replace a well pump?

Labor Cost to Replace a Well Pump

Labor makes up a sizable portion of your total project cost. Pump professionals typically charge per hour, with well pump replacement costs ranging from $45 to $150 per hour, for an average project total of $250 to $700.

Can you replace a well pump yourself?

While it is possible to replace a well pump yourself, it is generally not recommended. A number of factors need to be taken into account when replacing a well pump. If any are not handled properly, it could result in serious damage to your plumbing system, water pipes or water line.

How often should I flush my well pressure tank?

The tanks should be flushed semi-annually to remove accumulated sediments by opening the tank drain valve. These sediments could harbor and shield harmful microbes from chlorination should the well and home plumbing system require disinfection.

How long can a well pump run before it burns up?

Starter borehole pumps can run for up to 24 hours. However, your everyday borehole pump will run between 6 & 8 hours.

How to tell if well is dry or pump bad well water?

Is Your Water Well Going Dry? Here Are Some Common Warning Signs
  1. Change in Taste of Water. ...
  2. Well Water Appears Muddy. ...
  3. Water Pumps Running for Longer Periods. ...
  4. Faltering of Faucets Leading to Leakage. ...
  5. Change in Water Quality. ...
  6. Bubbles of the Dissolved Gases Appear in Well. ...
  7. Huge Increase in Power/Electricity Bill.

How long does it take to replace a water pump in a well?

On average, a submersible pump might take 4 to 6 hours to replace, while a jet pump could take 2 to 4 hours. However, each situation is unique, and factors like the well pump installation cost and the specifics of your system may affect the duration of the replacement process.

What to do after replacing a well pump?

After you have removed the pump, cover the well hole with a vermin-proof cap to prevent objects from falling in. Turn on a hose or faucet to release all the pressure and drain all the liquids from the pumping system. Check to be sure that the discharge line is held down while you are draining water.

How do I know if I need a new well pump?

Low Water Pressure or "Spitting"

A decrease in water pressure or air in your pipes is often due to an older or faulty pump being unable to maintain its original efficiency and can't pull as much water from the well as it used to.

Can a well pump last 40 years?

While a well pump can last 40 years or more with exceptional care and maintenance, most pumps have a typical lifespan of 8 to 15 years. Regular inspection and servicing can help extend the pump's lifespan.

How do I know if my well pump is dying?

Your Pump Is Running Constantly

Your pump needs to draw water from your well to keep your tank filled, and when it's unable to do so it will try to accommodate this discrepancy by constantly running to keep your tank full. This struggle is a clear sign that your well pump is going bad and losing its efficiency.

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