How difficult is it to replace a well pump?

Author: Prof. Laurie Rath II  |  Last update: Saturday, June 21, 2025

Deep well pumps are typically harder to install and require more physical work than shallow well pumps because the pump, well pump wire and piping are heavy and harder to lower into the well. Removing the old pump is also difficult since it can be very heavy.

Can I replace my well pump myself?

You can definitely replace a jet pump with same however you may want to consider extending the well casing and installing a submersible pump. Look for a state certified well pump professional. Some plumbers have experience pulling and installing pumps but your first choice should be a pro who specializes in pump work.

Is changing a well pump hard?

Replacing a submersible well pump on your own isn't recommended. This can be a tricky and high-stakes technical job that's best left to the experts.

How long does it take to replace a well pump?

How long does it take to replace a well pump? Within a half hour of arriving on site, we will diagnose the problem and give you an estimate. The average service time is 2-4 hours from start to finish.

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.

NEVER Replace A Submersible Well Pump Until Watching This!

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.

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 long does it take to remove and replace a water pump?

It's a job usually best left for professional mechanics. The water pump may be hidden under other components and may require special tools depending on the vehicle's design. It's a repair that can take two to three hours.

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.

Can I replace the water pump myself?

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.

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.

Are well pumps hard to replace?

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.

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.

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.

What is the cost to replace a well pump?

Most well pump replacement projects fall between $975 and $2,575, but many factors can add additional costs. A small hand pump can cost as little as $200, while a high-end constant-pressure well pump could set you back as much as $5,000.

How long does 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.

Can a homeowner replace a well pump?

Can you install or replace a well pump yourself? Many homeowners are tempted to DIY to save money when conducting well pump repair or replacement. While it is possible to replace a well pump yourself, it is generally not recommended.

How long do most well pumps last?

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 tell if I 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 when a check valve goes bad on a well pump?

When the check valve stops working, it is no longer able to prevent the well's pressure tank from sending water back down into the well as the pressure builds up. As a result, the pressure switch detects that water pressure inside the tank is dropping, so it turns the pump on again to pump in more water.

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 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.

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.

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