Your well pump or water pump is the heart of your water system. A well pump is designed to pump water upward and into the designated water system. The two most popular types of well pumps used worldwide are – submersible pumps and jet pumps.

Answering the Million Dollar Question: When to Replace a Well Pump?

When properly cared for, a submersible pump can last 7-15 years. That said, a submersible pump won’t last as long if the well contains high levels of sediments. When their well pumps start acting weird, one of the most common questions well owners ask themselves is whether to replace or repair?

Here are some telltale signs you need a new well pump.

Pump Runs Constantly

When a well pump approaches the end of its service life, its capability to draw water from the well takes a hit. When this happens, it is forced to work harder to supply fresh water to the home.

If you are not sure whether your well pump is running continuously, check if the pressure switch is clicking on and off frequently. Another common sign that your pump is working hard to maintain your home’s water needs is skyrocketing energy bills.

Low Water Pressure

Are you noticing water flow problems through your plumbing fixtures? If yes, there is a good chance the operating mechanism of your pumpis under too much stress. As a pump gets old, its components wear out, affecting its ability to push water through the pipe. This results in a low-pressure supply.

Some other issues that can give rise to the problem are – low water levels at the wall, scaling build-up in pipes, and pressure tank problems. Low water pressure can also be a sign that your pump is too small for your home.

No Water

This is one of the most common and apparent signs of pump failure. Here are some troubleshooting tips to try if there is no water coming from your faucet, and your well hasn’t run dry.

  • Check the circuit breaker. Make sure the well is getting power. Reset the breaker
  • Check and reset the pump control box if it is outfitted with a reset
  • Look for plumbing failures, such as a burst pipe

Air Spitting Through Faucets

If your pipes release air bubbles every time you turn on your faucet, the pump may be unable to pull water up. This is a sign that something is wrong with your pump, and it is weeks or days away from falling apart.

Sometimes, pipeline cracks can give rise to the problem. If you spot cracks in the pipe that connect your pump to your home, ask a well repair expert to fix them. If your water table has dropped below the pump or your well is drying up, have it dug deeper.

Things That Affect Pump Replacement Cost

Once homeowners determine that they need a new well pump, the most common question that comes to their minds is how much should they expect to spend? The actual costs incurred will depend on these factors:

Pump Type

One of the most important things that affect well pump replacement cost is the type of well pump opted for. Jet pumps tend to be more affordable than submersible pumps as they are easier to install and remove.

Expect to spend more if you have your heart set on a self-priming pump or solar pump. A good rule of thumb is that the greater the horsepower and number of gallons pumped per minute, the higher the cost.

The Condition of Other Well Components 

Your well pump is an integral part of your water system; however, it needs the help of other components to supply water to your home.

Before looking for a new pump, check your pipes and pressure tank. If they are in good condition, you can heave a sigh of relief; however, if these or any other component is beyond repair, you must have them replaced too. If this is the case, you can expect the cost of well pump replacement to rise considerably.

Well Size

Installing pumps in shallow wells involves less work than wide and deep wells. If you have a deep well (up to 150 feet in depth), look for a deep pump. A deep pump costs more than a traditional pump. You can also expect to spend more on deep pump installation.

Well Pump Location

Depending on the location of your well pump and the way it is set up, you may have to pay more for the pump replacement.

If you have a buried well, your service provider’s team will first have to locate it. This will entail more effort. The team may have to use advanced tools and techniques. If your pump is placed in an underground well, the team will have to dig it up from great depths, which can be a major challenge.

These factors will directly affect your pump replacement cost.

Why You Should Not Try to Replace Your Well Pump Yourself

Well pump replacement is best left to the experts. There are various factors at play. The benefits of hiring a professional far outweigh the cost. Think of it as a long-term investment.

A professional will prepare a plan and take various steps to ensure flawless execution. They will help you choose the right pump for your home. When the temptation to take the DIY route to save some money gets too strong to resist,remind yourself that the way your well pump is installed will have a significant impact on its efficiency and longevity.

Weeks Drilling & Pump Co. offers top-notch water pump repair services in Santa Rosa.We have extensive experience in installing and servicing water treatment systems and public water systems. We have been tirelessly serving our community members for decades. To discuss your requirements, call us at 707-823-3184.