Well Pump Installation: What to Expect

Before Installation

Site Assessment

• Technician reviews well specs
• Checks well depth and casing
• Measures water level
• Assesses access for equipment
• Determines pump size needed

What You Should Prepare

• Clear access to well (move obstacles)
• Know where electrical panel is
• Have well records if available
• Plan for no water during work
• Store water if needed

Equipment Needed

• Service rig (crane/hoist)
• New pump and drop pipe
• Wiring
• Control box (if 3-wire)
• Fittings, check valve, etc.

Installation Process

Step 1: Disconnect Power

• Turn off breaker
• Lock out for safety
• Disconnect wires

Step 2: Pull Old Pump (If Replacing)

• Remove well cap
• Connect service rig
• Carefully pull pump and pipe
• Remove in sections (deep wells)
• Inspect old pump for failure cause

Step 3: Inspect Well

• Check casing condition
• Look for obstructions
• Measure water level
• Note any issues

Step 4: Prepare New Pump

• Assemble pump and motor
• Attach drop pipe sections
• Install check valve
• Connect wiring
• Install torque arrestor

Step 5: Lower Pump

• Carefully lower into well
• Add pipe sections
• Feed wire as lowering
• Set at proper depth
• Secure at wellhead

Step 6: Wellhead Assembly

• Install pitless adapter (or well seal)
• Connect to supply line
• Install sanitary well cap
• Seal all connections

Step 7: Electrical Connections

• Wire to control box (3-wire)
• Or direct to pressure switch (2-wire)
• Verify voltage
• Connect to breaker

Step 8: System Setup

• Check/set pressure tank air charge
• Set pressure switch
• Verify all connections

Step 9: System Test

• Turn on power
• Prime if needed
• Check flow rate
• Verify pressure range
• Measure amp draw
• Run several cycles
• Check for leaks

After Installation

Immediate

• Run water for 15-30 minutes
• Flush air from lines
• Clear any sediment

Documentation

• Keep pump model/serial numbers
• Keep installation date
• Keep installer contact info
• Warranty information

What to Watch For

• Normal cycling (not rapid)
• Steady pressure
• Clear water (after initial flush)
• No unusual sounds

When to Call Back

• Rapid cycling
• Low pressure
• Air in water (persistent)
• Any leaks
• Tripping breaker

Cost Breakdown

Typical Costs

Factors Affecting Cost

• Well depth (deeper = more labor/materials)
• Pump HP (larger = more expensive)
• Access difficulty
• Emergency vs scheduled

Timeline

Typical Installation

• Shallow well (under 100 ft): 2-3 hours
• Medium well (100-300 ft): 3-4 hours
• Deep well (300+ ft): 4-6 hours

Factors That Add Time

• Difficult access
• Well problems discovered
• Old stuck pump
• Wiring issues

We install premium Franklin Electric and Grundfos submersible pumps — the two most reliable brands in the well industry. For specific applications, we also offer Goulds and Sta-Rite options.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does pump installation take?

Typically 2-6 hours depending on well depth and complexity. Most jobs done same day.

Will I be without water?

Yes, during the installation. Plan to store water or schedule accordingly.

Can I install a well pump myself?

Not recommended. Requires special equipment (service rig), electrical knowledge, and safety precautions.

What warranty do I get?

Manufacturer warranty (1-5 years depending on pump). Installer may offer labor warranty (1-2 years typically).

What if my old pump is stuck?

Extraction takes longer and may cost more. In rare cases, pump may need to be drilled out or left in place.