SC By SCWS Team | February 2, 2026 | 15 min read
Submersible Pump Cost Installed
Need a new submersible well pump? Whether you're replacing a failed pump or installing one in a new well, you're looking at an investment of $1,500 to $5,500 or more for professional installation. The average residential pump replacement for a 250-400 foot well typically costs $2,500-$4,000 including the pump, all materials, and labor. This guide breaks down exactly what you'll pay and what affects the price so you can budget accurately for your well pump project.
💵 Submersible Pump Installation Cost Summary
- • Shallow wells (under 150 ft): $1,500 - $2,500
- • Medium depth (150-300 ft): $2,000 - $3,500
- • Deep wells (300-500 ft): $3,000 - $4,500
- • Very deep wells (500+ ft): $4,500 - $7,000+
- • Includes: Pump, motor, pipe, wire, fittings, labor
Your submersible pump is the heart of your well system—when it fails, you have no water. Understanding installation costs helps you make informed decisions about repair versus replacement and budget for this essential home system. Let's explore exactly what goes into the price of getting a new submersible pump installed.
Complete Breakdown: What's Included in Installation Cost
A professional submersible pump installation includes multiple components beyond just the pump itself. Here's what you're paying for:
The Submersible Pump and Motor
Submersible pumps combine the pump and motor into a single sealed unit that sits submerged in your well water. Pump costs depend on size (horsepower) and brand quality:
💰 Submersible Pump Prices by Size
1/2 HP
$400 - $700
Shallow wells, low demand
3/4 HP
$500 - $900
Average residential use
1 HP
$600 - $1,200
Medium homes, some irrigation
1.5 HP
$900 - $1,800
Large homes, irrigation
2 HP
$1,200 - $2,500
Deep wells, high demand
3+ HP
$2,000 - $4,000+
Agricultural, commercial
For help choosing the right pump, see our complete submersible pump guide and best pump brands comparison. The right size depends on your well depth, recovery rate, and household water demands—a topic covered in our pump sizing guide.
Drop Pipe (Delivery Pipe)
The drop pipe connects the submersible pump to the wellhead and carries water to the surface. Costs depend on well depth:
- Schedule 80 PVC pipe: $1.50-$3.00 per foot
- Polyethylene pipe: $1.00-$2.00 per foot
- Galvanized steel (older systems): $3.00-$5.00 per foot
For a 300-foot well, expect $300-$900 just for drop pipe materials.
Submersible Pump Wire
Special waterproof submersible pump cable carries power to the motor. Wire costs are significant for deep wells:
- 10 gauge (smaller pumps): $0.80-$1.50 per foot
- 12 gauge: $0.60-$1.20 per foot
- 8 gauge (larger pumps): $1.20-$2.00 per foot
Wire must be properly sized for the pump motor and well depth to prevent voltage drop and premature motor failure.
Essential Components and Fittings
Every proper installation includes these additional items:
- Torque arrestor: $25-$75 — Protects pump from well casing damage
- Check valve: $30-$100 — Prevents water backflow
- Pitless adapter: $100-$300 — Frost-proof connection at wellhead
- Wire splices and connectors: $20-$50
- Clamps and hangers: $30-$80
- Control box (3-wire systems): $100-$300
Learn more about these components in our torque arrestor guide and check valve guide.
Labor for Installation
Professional installation typically requires 3-6 hours depending on well depth. Labor costs include:
- Removing old pump (if replacing)
- Inspecting well condition
- Installing new pump, pipe, and wire
- Making electrical connections
- Pressure switch adjustment
- System testing and commissioning
Labor typically runs $500-$1,500 depending on well depth and local rates. This represents 25-35% of the total installation cost.
Sample Installation Cost Breakdowns
Here are realistic cost breakdowns for typical installations at different depths:
💰 Example: 200-Foot Well (3/4 HP Pump)
| 3/4 HP Submersible Pump (Franklin) | $750 |
| Drop Pipe (200 ft PVC) | $400 |
| Submersible Wire (200 ft) | $200 |
| Fittings and Components | $200 |
| Labor (3-4 hours) | $650 |
| TOTAL | $2,200 |
💰 Example: 400-Foot Well (1.5 HP Pump)
| 1.5 HP Submersible Pump (Grundfos) | $1,400 |
| Drop Pipe (400 ft PVC) | $800 |
| Submersible Wire (400 ft) | $480 |
| Fittings and Components | $280 |
| Control Box (3-wire system) | $220 |
| Labor (5-6 hours) | $950 |
| TOTAL | $4,130 |
Factors That Increase Installation Costs
Several factors can push your installation cost above average:
Well Depth
Depth is the biggest cost driver. Every additional 100 feet adds:
- $150-$300 in pipe materials
- $80-$150 in wire
- 30-60 minutes additional labor
- Potentially larger pump requirement
Understanding your well depth is essential for accurate budgeting.
Pump Size Requirements
Higher water demand or low-producing wells may require larger, more expensive pumps. Factors that increase pump size needs:
- Large households with multiple bathrooms
- Irrigation systems requiring high flow
- Deep wells requiring more lift capacity
- Low well recovery rates
Electrical Upgrades
Sometimes existing electrical can't support a new pump:
- New circuit breaker: $100-$300
- Wiring upgrade to panel: $200-$800
- New electrical service (rare): $1,500+
Well Condition Issues
Problems discovered during installation can add costs:
- Damaged casing: May require casing repairs
- Sand or sediment: Well rehabilitation needed
- Stuck old pump: Extra extraction time and equipment
- Water quality issues: Treatment system recommendations
Emergency or After-Hours Service
When you're without water, waiting isn't always an option. Emergency well service typically adds 25-50% to labor costs. Weekends and holidays may also carry premium rates.
Premium Pump Brands
Not all submersible pumps are created equal. Premium brands cost more but offer:
- Longer warranties (5-7 years vs 1-2 years)
- Better reliability and longer lifespan
- Higher efficiency (lower electricity costs)
- Better performance in challenging conditions
Our best submersible pump brands guide compares top manufacturers.
Additional Components You May Need
Pump installation is often a good time to upgrade other aging components:
Pressure Tank
Your pressure tank works with your pump to maintain water pressure. If yours is old or waterlogged, consider replacing it during pump installation:
- 20-gallon tank: $200-$350 installed
- 44-gallon tank: $350-$550 installed
- 86-gallon tank: $550-$900 installed
Learn about sizing in our pressure tank sizing guide and costs in our pressure tank replacement cost guide.
Pressure Switch
The pressure switch controls when your pump runs. Replacement costs $100-$250 installed if needed. See our pressure switch guide for more information.
Water Treatment
If your well has hard water, iron, or other water quality issues, pump replacement is a logical time to add treatment. However, these are separate systems with their own costs.
Signs You Need Pump Replacement
How do you know when it's time for a new pump? Watch for these signs of a failing well pump:
⚠️ Warning Signs of Pump Failure
- • Short cycling: Pump turns on/off rapidly (every few seconds)
- • Reduced pressure: Gradual decline in water pressure
- • Air sputtering: Air bursts from faucets
- • High electricity bills: Struggling pump uses more power
- • Strange noises: Clicking, grinding from wellhead area
- • No water: Complete pump failure (emergency!)
If you're experiencing pump problems or no water from your well, professional diagnosis is important. Sometimes the issue is simpler than full replacement—a control box, pressure switch, or pressure tank problem might be the culprit.
Why Professional Installation Matters
DIY submersible pump installation might seem tempting to save the $500-$1,500 labor cost, but the risks far outweigh potential savings:
Risks of DIY Installation
- Dropping the pump: Pump recovery can cost $1,000-$3,000 or require abandoning the well
- Improper wire splicing: Can cause short circuits and motor failure
- Wrong sizing: Undersized pump won't meet demand; oversized damages well
- Void warranties: Most pump warranties require professional installation
- Electrical hazards: Working with 230V power in wet conditions
- Code violations: Some areas require licensed installation
Benefits of Professional Installation
- Proper equipment: Pump pullers, proper splicing tools
- Correct sizing: Based on well test data and household needs
- Valid warranties: Manufacturer warranties require professional installation
- Well inspection: Problems identified before they become expensive
- Code compliance: Meets local electrical and well codes
- Workmanship warranty: Installers stand behind their work
How Long Do Submersible Pumps Last?
Understanding pump lifespan helps you plan for this eventual expense:
- Average lifespan: 8-15 years
- Premium brands: 12-20+ years possible
- Economy brands: 6-10 years typical
Factors Affecting Pump Lifespan
- Water quality: Sand, sediment, and mineral content cause wear
- Cycling frequency: More on/off cycles mean more wear
- Voltage stability: Power fluctuations damage motors
- Proper sizing: Correctly sized pumps last longer
- Well condition: Clean, properly maintained wells extend pump life
Regular well maintenance and periodic inspections help maximize pump life and catch problems early.
Getting Quotes for Pump Installation
When requesting quotes for submersible pump installation:
- Know your well depth: Check your well log or ask the contractor to measure
- Describe your water needs: Household size, irrigation, any special requirements
- Ask what's included: Get itemized quotes showing pump, materials, and labor
- Understand warranties: Pump warranty vs. labor warranty
- Request brand specifications: Know exactly what pump you're getting
- Ask about additional recommendations: Pressure tank, electrical upgrades, etc.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to have a submersible pump installed?
Submersible well pump installation typically costs $1,500-$5,500 or more, depending on well depth and pump size. A typical residential installation for a 250-400 foot well runs $2,500-$4,000. This includes the pump ($800-$2,500), drop pipe, wire, fittings, and professional installation labor. Deeper wells and larger pumps increase costs significantly.
What factors affect submersible pump installation cost?
Key factors affecting installation cost include: well depth (more pipe and wire needed), pump horsepower requirements, pump brand and quality, diameter of well casing, accessibility of well, whether electrical upgrades are needed, and if additional components like pressure tanks need replacement. Deep wells over 500 feet can cost 50-100% more than shallow wells.
How much is just the submersible pump itself?
Submersible pumps alone (without installation) cost $400-$3,000+ depending on size and quality. Typical residential pumps: 1/2 HP ($400-$700), 3/4 HP ($500-$900), 1 HP ($600-$1,200), 1.5 HP ($900-$1,800), 2 HP ($1,200-$2,500). Premium brands like Grundfos and Franklin Electric cost 20-40% more than budget options but offer better reliability.
What's included in submersible pump installation?
Professional submersible pump installation includes: removing old pump (if replacing), new submersible pump and motor, drop pipe to required depth, submersible pump wire, torque arrestor, check valve, pitless adapter connection, control box or pump start components, pressure switch adjustment, and system testing. Quality installers also inspect well condition and water quality.
How long does submersible pump installation take?
Most submersible pump installations take 3-6 hours for residential wells up to 400 feet deep. Deeper wells take longer due to more pipe and wire handling. Replacements are typically faster than new installations. Emergency same-day service is available from some contractors, though it may cost 20-50% more than scheduled service.
Should I install a submersible pump myself to save money?
DIY submersible pump installation is not recommended. It requires specialized equipment (pump pullers, splicing tools), risks dropping the pump into the well (expensive recovery), can void warranties, and improper installation causes premature failure. Labor typically represents only 25-35% of total cost—savings don't justify the risks. Professional installation includes warranties and ensures proper operation.
How much does labor cost for pump installation?
Labor for submersible pump installation typically runs $500-$1,500 depending on well depth and complexity. Most contractors quote complete installed prices rather than separating labor. Expect labor to represent 25-35% of total installation cost. Emergency or weekend service typically adds 25-50% to labor costs.
When should I replace my submersible pump?
Replace your submersible pump when you notice: frequent cycling (short cycling), reduced water pressure or flow, higher electricity bills, air sputtering from faucets, pump running constantly, or the pump stops working entirely. Most submersible pumps last 8-15 years depending on water quality and usage. Don't wait for complete failure—proactive replacement prevents water emergencies.
Get Your Free Pump Installation Quote
Southern California Well Service provides professional submersible pump installation throughout San Diego, Riverside, and surrounding counties. We'll assess your well, recommend the right pump for your needs, and provide upfront pricing with no surprises. Same-day emergency service available.
