What you need to know before replacing your well pump
If you're experiencing low water pressure, higher electric bills, spitting faucets or dirty water, it might be time to replace your well pump. Before you make that decision, there are a few things you should know.
This article will discuss the most common signs that indicate well pump replacement is necessary and what factors you should consider before making a purchase. We will also tell you about Cinch Home Services Warranty plans and how they can make keeping up with your home’s appliances and built-in systems easier for you!
What is a well pump and how does it work?
A well pump is a submersible pump placed in a well to draw water and send it to your home. The well pump is typically powered by electricity and has a pressure tank that stores water until it is needed.
There are two main types of well pumps: submersible pumps and deep well jet pumps. Submersible pumps are placed inside the well, while jet pumps are placed outside. Both types of pumps use moving parts to create a suction that pulls water from the well and pushes it up into the home.
Well pumps are essential for many homes, especially those not connected to a public water supply. Without a well pump, homeowners have to manually draw water from their wells to use it. Well pumps make it possible to have running water in a home without relying on a city or town's water supply. Different types of well pumps are better suited for different situations, so it is important to consult with a professional before choosing a well pump for your home.
Signs that a well pump needs to be replaced
All well pumps have a finite life span. At some point, every pump will need to be replaced. But how can you tell when it's time for a new pump? Several signs indicate a well pump is on its last legs. If your water pressure has decreased or the flow of water from your taps has slowed, it could be due to a failing well pump.
You may also notice that your electric bill has increased because a worn-out pump has to work harder to move water through the system. In some cases, you may hear strange noises coming from the pump itself. If you notice any of these issues, call a qualified technician to diagnose the problem. With proper maintenance, most well pumps will last for many years. However, if you ignore warning signs of a failing pump, you could end up with expensive damage to your home's plumbing system.
In some cases, well pump repair may be in order. A licensed plumber will be able to assess water pressure, gauge horsepower, check valves and further evaluate the water system.
Let’s explore some of the common signs a well pump needs to be replaced.
A dry or low well
A dry or low well is often a sign of a failing well pump. The well pump is responsible for bringing water up from the underground aquifer and into the home. If the pump fails, it can no longer perform this function, leading to a dry or low well.
There are several reasons why a well pump fails, including a loss of power, a broken pipe, or a clogged filter. Regardless of the cause, a failing well pump is a serious problem that should be addressed as soon as possible. If you suspect that your well pump is failing, contact a qualified technician for diagnosis and repairs.
Spitting faucets
One of the most common signs that a well pump is failing is spitting faucets. This occurs when water is forced through a narrow opening, such as a faucet, at high pressure. The water is forced to flow faster than it can escape from the opening, which causes it to break up into small droplets or spray.
In some cases, spitting faucets can also be caused by an obstruction in the pipes, such as a buildup of mineral deposits. However, the most likely cause is a failing well pump. If your well pump is failing, have it replaced as soon as possible to avoid damage to your home's plumbing system.
Dirty water
If the water coming from your taps appears murky or smells bad, it could indicate that your well pump is no longer functioning properly. Dirt and other particles can build up in the pump, causing it to become less effective at filtering water.
In addition, a failing well pump can also struggle to maintain adequate pressure, resulting in a decrease in water flow. If you notice any of these signs, it's important to contact a qualified technician to inspect your well pump and make any necessary repairs.
Loud or unusual noises
One of the first signs that a well pump is failing is loud or unusual noises coming from the unit. This can be caused by a number of things, such as a buildup of minerals in the water, a loss of prime or pressure problems.
If you notice your well pump making strange noises, have it checked out by a professional as soon as possible. Ignoring the problem can lead to more serious damage and, ultimately, a complete failure of the well pump. In some cases, you may be able to solve the problem yourself by simply cleaning or replacing parts. However, if the issue is more complex, it's best to leave it to the experts.
Water pump cycles on and off constantly
If your water pump constantly turns on and off, it is a sign that the pump is failing. The most likely cause is that the pressure switch, which controls the pump, is not working properly. The pressure switch activates the pump when the water pressure in the tank drops below a certain level and deactivates the pump when the pressure reaches a certain level.
If the switch is not working properly, the pump will turn on and off more frequently than normal. In some cases, the switch may need to be replaced. However, if the problem persists, the entire pump will likely need to be replaced.
High electric bill
Another sign that a well pump is failing is an increase in electric bills. This is because the pump has to work harder to draw water from the well, which requires more energy. In addition, the pump can lose efficiency as it ages, meaning it takes even more energy to operate.
If you notice a sudden spike in your electric bills, it's a good idea to have your well pump inspected by a professional. They can diagnose any problems and recommend the best course of action. In some cases, simply replacing an old pump can dramatically reduce your energy costs and save you money in the long run.
How much does well pump replacement cost by type of pump?
According to HomeAdvisor, the average cost to replace a well pump is between $900 and $3,000. This cost depends on the type of pump, the depth of the well and the extent of any damage to the well itself.
If the well is shallow and there is no damage to the casing or piping, a submersible pump can be replaced for as little as $900. However, if the well is deep or there is significant damage to the well casing, a replacement can cost upward of $2,500.
In some cases, particularly with older wells, it may be more cost-effective to simply abandon the well and drill a new one. It is important to consult with a professional before making any major decisions about replacing a well pump.
Jet well pump
Jet well pumps are a type of water pump that sucks up water from a shallow or deep well and sprays it under high pressure. The jet pump uses an impeller to create a jet of water, which propels the water up the pipe and out of the nozzle.
Jet pumps are typically used to irrigate lawns, gardens or crops. They can also be used to spray insecticides or herbicides. The average cost to replace a jet well pump ranges from $200 to $700. The exact cost will depend on the specific pump and the labor costs in your area. Some jet pumps come with a warranty, which can help offset the cost of replacement.
Submersible well pump
Submersible well pumps are used to pump water from a groundwater well. They are typically used when the water level in the well is too low to gravity-feed water to the surface. Submersible well pumps are more expensive than other types of well pumps, but they are also more durable and can last for many years with proper maintenance.
The average cost to replace a submersible well pump is between $200 and $1,200, depending on the size of the pump and the depth of the well. The cost of new pipework will vary depending on the length and width of the pipes. The total cost of installing a new submersible well pump and pipework can range from $2,000 to $4,000.
Solar well pump
Solar well pumps are becoming an increasingly popular option for those looking for an environmentally friendly and cost-effective way to pump water. Solar pumps are powered by the sun, making them a renewable energy source. They are also very efficient, requiring little maintenance.
Solar pumps can be used for a variety of applications, including irrigation, drinking water and swimming pools. The average cost to replace a solar well pump is around $2,000. Solar pumps are a great choice for those who want to reduce their environmental impact and save money on their energy bill.
Hand well pump
Hand well pumps are a type of water pump used to draw water from a well. They are typically used in rural areas where there is no access to city water or in emergency situations when the power goes out and city water is not available.
Hand well pumps are powered by a handle that is turned to create suction. This suction pulls water up from the well and into a spout. Hand well pumps typically cost between $50 and $200, depending on the size of the pump and the materials it is made from. Hand well pumps can last for many years if properly cared for and maintained. However, they will eventually need to be replaced. When this time comes, have a professional install the new hand well pump to ensure it is installed correctly and operates safely.
Well pump maintenance
Your well pump is responsible for bringing water from underground into your home. Maintaining your well pump is important because it helps secure a continuous supply of water and can extend the life span of your pump.
Well pumps that are not properly maintained can experience reduced water pressure or fail entirely. Whether it’s a deep well or a shallow well, homeowners can take active steps to maintain their well pump and rest easy knowing their well system is in good working order.
Here are steps to maintain your well pump and extend its life span:
- Check the well pump regularly for any leaks or damage.
- Make sure the well pump is properly primed and functioning.
- Inspect the well pump's pressure switch to confirm it is working properly.
- Clean the well pump's filter regularly.
- Inspect your well regularly for any signs of damage or wear and tear.
- If you notice any damage, get a well pump repair as soon as possible.
- Have your well pump serviced every few years to ensure it is operating properly.
How long does a well pump last?
This is a common question we get asked at Cinch. Unfortunately, there isn't one answer that fits all well pumps.
The life span of your well pump will depend on a few factors, including:
- The type and quality of the well pump
- How often the well pump is used
- Whether or not the well pump is properly maintained
The average life span of a well pump varies depending on the type of pump in question. For example, submersible pumps typically have a shorter life span than jet pumps. This is because submersible pumps are more exposed to the elements, and therefore more likely to experience corrosion and other forms of wear and tear. Shallow well pumps and deeper wells vary in life-span expectancy. With proper care and maintenance, however, both types of pumps can last 15 years or more.
Many common well pump problems can be avoided with troubleshooting and maintenance. Pump repair services can be costly. As technology continues to improve, it may make sense to install a new well pump altogether. This could lower your electric bill and leave you with a far superior water well pump compared to your old one. A plumber will be able to determine if it’s a better investment to have a new pump installed instead.
The key to prolonging the life span of a well pump is to perform regular maintenance. This includes tasks such as checking for leaks, cleaning the intake screen and regularly lubricating moving parts. Additionally, get the pump serviced by a professional on an annual basis. By taking these simple steps, you can help ensure that your well pump will provide reliable performance for many years to come.
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. 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.
Additionally, it can be difficult to determine whether or not the well pump is the root cause of your plumbing issues. It is generally best to leave the well pump replacement to a professional plumber or other qualified individual for these reasons. Hiring a professional can save homeowners money in the long run by avoiding costly repairs to the pump motor, circuit breaker, pressure tank and more. Homeowners who tackle well pump problems themselves may find they end up with more trouble (and bills) than if they hired a professional plumber to begin with.
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