Well pumps are the core of virtually every private water system, bringing water from the earth and distributing it from a water well to your business or home. It is important to install well pumps properly to provide properly treated water at a consistent pressure and to reduce wear on the pump. It seems easy enough, but coupling the installation of the well pump correctly requires planning, tools, and consideration of the system’s requirements.
Table of Contents
Understanding Your Well System
Each well pump installation system is different, and your pump must meet your specific water needs and the depth of your well. Submersible pumps are often utilized for deep wells because they are far more efficient submerged in water than above. Jet pumps work well for shallow depths. Before proceeding with any installation; measure the water table, inspect the well casing/travel casing, and confirm that your chosen pump will meet the required depth and output rating.
Site Preparation and Safety Checks
Before you begin the work and installation, you should clear the work area of debris, check it for safe and stable access to the well, and perform all electrical connections with the power supply turned off. Use only wiring which meets your local building codes during the installation of the pump. Safety precautions such as wearing insulated protective gloves, having appropriate lifting devices, and not working in wet or contaminated conditions reduce the potential of accident or injury when installing the pump.
The Installation Process
Installing a pump begins by fastening the pump to either the well casing, or somewhere above ground depending on the pump type. Next, the piping is connected to move water to the pressure tank before distributing into the home. Electrical wiring is also connected based on manufacturer specifications and it is of utmost importance to ensure that the connections are watertight and corrosion resistant. Once the pump is primed, and the system is full of water and pressurized, a full test should be conducted to verify water movement and pressure levels; also check motor performance.
Long-Term Care for Your Pump
Routine maintenance is required for properly installed pumps. Overall aesthetics, audible noises, water pressure drops, as well as cleaning sediment filters should be checked on a regular basis. To reduce the risk of early maintenance becoming significant repairs, inspections can be done on a seasonal basis and should be done before peak demand periods. A properly maintained pump, in combination with a quality pump, will typically last well over a decade before replacement is needed.
Conclusion
Installing a well pump is more than putting equipment into the ground—it is developing a system that consistently provides clean water where you want and when you need it. By carefully choosing the right pump, preparing the premises, following explicit installation procedures, and following up on regular maintenance, you could enjoy long and reliable water service for many years. If you are considering a complex installation or if you are installing a deep well which requires specialized equipment, hiring an experienced and certified contractor will help you be assured that the job has been done properly, safely, and to code.