Installing a submersible well pump is a complex and challenging task that requires specialized knowledge and expertise. Nevertheless, understanding the process and following step-by-step instructions can make the installation more manageable. This comprehensive guide will provide you with a detailed overview of the necessary steps involved in installing a submersible well pump, ensuring a successful and efficient water supply for your home or business.
Before embarking on the installation process, it is crucial to gather the necessary materials and tools. These include the submersible well pump, drop pipe, discharge pipe, electrical cable, check valve, pressure switch, and pressure tank. Selecting the appropriate pump size and type is essential, as it will determine the water flow rate and pressure. The drop pipe should be sized according to the pump’s specifications, and the discharge pipe should be large enough to handle the water flow without causing excessive pressure loss. Additionally, the electrical cable must be rated for the pump’s voltage and amperage requirements.
Once the materials have been assembled, the installation can begin. The first step involves digging a hole for the well pump. The hole should be deep enough to accommodate the pump and drop pipe, and it should be located in a convenient and accessible area. Next, the drop pipe is lowered into the well and connected to the pump. The electrical cable is then attached to the pump and run through the drop pipe. The discharge pipe is connected to the pump outlet and routed to the desired location. Finally, the pressure switch and pressure tank are installed to control the pump’s operation and maintain a consistent water pressure.
Site Selection and Planning
1. Determining the Right Location
Choosing a suitable location for your submersible well pump is crucial to ensure optimal performance and longevity. Here are several factors to consider when selecting a site:
- Proximity to Water Source: Locate the pump as close to the water source as possible to minimize the distance that water needs to travel through the pipe.
- Adequate Space: Ensure there is enough space around the pump to perform maintenance and future repairs easily.
- Soil Conditions: Check the soil type where the pump will be installed. Sandy soils tend to be more porous and allow for easier water flow, while clay soils can be more challenging.
- Depth to Water: Determine the depth of the water table at the chosen location. This information is essential for selecting a pump with the appropriate head pressure.
- Geological Considerations: Be aware of any geological formations or underground obstructions that could hinder the pump’s installation or operation.
- Code Compliance: Adhere to all local building codes and regulations regarding the installation of submersible well pumps.
To assist in site selection, consider obtaining a water well survey. This survey provides valuable information about the depth and quality of the groundwater in the area.
2. Planning for Installation
Once the site is selected, it is crucial to plan for the pump’s installation. This includes:
- Selecting the Pump: Choose a submersible well pump that meets the specific requirements of your site and water needs.
- Sizing the Well Casing: Ensure the well casing is sized appropriately for the selected pump and provides enough space for the pump to operate efficiently.
- Determining the Electrical Requirements: Calculate the voltage and amperage requirements for the pump and ensure that the electrical system can provide the necessary power.
- Preparing the Pump: Disconnect the pump from the power supply and remove any shipping plugs or protective caps.
- Preparing the Well: Clean the well of any debris or sediment and inspect the casing for any leaks or damage.
Preparing the Wellhead
Before installing the submersible pump, it’s crucial to prepare the wellhead to ensure a proper seal and prevent contamination. Here are the steps involved:
1. Clean the Wellhead Surface
Remove any dirt, debris, or corrosion from the wellhead surface using a wire brush or sandpaper. This will create a clean, smooth surface for the well seal to adhere properly.
2. Install the Well Seal
The well seal is a rubber gasket that creates a watertight seal between the wellhead and the submersible pump. Follow these detailed steps for proper well seal installation:
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| a. Choose the Right Seal | Select a well seal that matches the diameter of the wellhead and the pump discharge pipe. |
| b. Lubricate the Seal | Apply a thin layer of petroleum jelly or silicone sealant to the inside of the well seal to ensure a smooth fit. |
| c. Position the Seal | Place the well seal over the wellhead and align it with the discharge pipe opening. |
| d. Tighten the Bolts | Use a wrench to evenly tighten the bolts that secure the well seal to the wellhead, following the manufacturer’s torque specifications. |
Installing the Pump Intake
The pump intake is the point at which water enters the pump. It is important to install the intake at a depth that is below the lowest water level in the well. This will ensure that the pump can always draw water, even during periods of drought. The intake should also be placed in a location where it will not be obstructed by debris or sediment.
There are two main types of pump intakes:
– Foot valves: Foot valves are one-way valves that are installed at the end of the suction pipe. They prevent water from flowing back into the well when the pump is turned off.
– Strainers: Strainers are screens that are installed over the suction pipe. They prevent debris and sediment from entering the pump.
The type of intake that you choose will depend on the specific conditions of your well. If your well has a lot of debris or sediment, you will need to use a strainer. If your well has a low water level, you will need to use a foot valve.
Once you have chosen an intake, you will need to install it on the suction pipe. The intake should be placed at a depth that is below the lowest water level in the well. The intake should also be placed in a location where it will not be obstructed by debris or sediment.
Here are the steps involved in installing a pump intake:
| Steps | Description |
|---|---|
| 1. Remove the suction pipe from the pump. | |
| 2. Install the intake on the suction pipe. | |
| 3. Place the intake in the well. | The intake should be placed at a depth that is below the lowest water level in the well. The intake should also be placed in a location where it will not be obstructed by debris or sediment. |
| 4. Reinstall the suction pipe on the pump. |
Once the intake has been installed, you can turn on the pump and test it. If the pump is working properly, it will draw water from the well and deliver it to the surface.
Lowering the Pump
Step 1: Prepare the Pump
Prior to lowering the pump, ensure it is securely attached to the drop pipe using a stainless steel clamp. Check that the electrical cable is firmly connected and protected from damage.
Step 2: Attach the Guide Cable
Fasten a guide cable to the top of the pump and run it along the length of the drop pipe. This cable will assist in keeping the pump aligned as it is lowered into the well.
Step 3: Stabilize the Drop Pipe
Begin lowering the drop pipe into the well, while simultaneously guiding it using the attached guide cable. To prevent damage, secure the drop pipe at regular intervals (approximately every 20 feet) using pipe clamps or rope.
Step 4: Lower the Pump
Carefully lower the pump into the well, using the guide cable for control. Be mindful of any obstructions or tight spots within the well casing. Maintain equal tension on the guide cable and drop pipe to ensure the pump descends evenly and without any kinks or damage. Continue lowering until the pump reaches the desired depth in the water column.
Priming the Pump
Priming is the process of refilling the pump’s internal components and the discharge line with water, creating a vacuum that allows the pump to draw water from the well. Proper priming is crucial for ensuring the pump’s optimal performance and preventing damage.
Follow these steps to prime the submersible well pump:
- Close the valve on the discharge line: This prevents water from flowing out while priming.
- Loosen the priming plug: Located at the top of the pump, the priming plug allows air to escape while priming. Use a wrench or pliers to gently loosen it.
- Pour water into the priming port: Slowly pour water into the port until it starts flowing out of the loose priming plug. This indicates that the pump is filled with water.
- Tighten the priming plug: Once water is flowing out, quickly tighten the priming plug to prevent water loss.
- Open the discharge valve slowly: Gradually open the valve on the discharge line, allowing water to flow through the pump and out. Check for any leaks.
- Monitor pump performance: Observe the pressure gauge on the discharge line. As the pump draws water from the well, the pressure will rise. If the pressure is not increasing or if the pump is making unusual noises, there may be an issue with the priming process or the pump itself.
| Symptom | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Pump not drawing water | Pump not properly primed | Reprime the pump following the steps above |
| Low water pressure | Air leak in discharge line | Inspect the discharge line for leaks and tighten connections |
| Pump cycling on and off rapidly | Pump not drawing enough water from well | Check water level in well and ensure pump is sized appropriately |
Installing a Pressure Tank
A pressure tank is a key component of a submersible well pump system, as it maintains water pressure and prevents the pump from running constantly. Here’s a detailed guide on installing a pressure tank:
1. Choose a Tank Location
Select a location near the well head that’s protected from freezing temperatures and has enough space to accommodate the tank and connections.
2. Install a Base
Create a stable base for the tank by pouring a concrete pad or laying down gravel or crushed stone.
3. Install the Tank
Place the pressure tank on the base and level it using a spirit level.
4. Connect the Pump
Using flexible hose or piping, connect the pump discharge line to the inlet of the pressure tank.
5. Connect the Well
Connect the tank’s supply line to the well casing or drop pipe.
6. Install a Pressure Gauge
Attach a pressure gauge to the tank’s outlet to monitor water pressure.
7. Install a Pressure Switch
Connect a pressure switch to the pressure gauge. This switch will turn the pump on and off based on the set pressure levels.
8. Install the Electrical Components
Connect the electrical wires from the pump, pressure switch, and pressure tank to the electrical panel. Follow all electrical codes and ensure proper grounding.
9. Adjust the Pressure Settings
Adjust the pressure switch according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Typically, the cut-in pressure should be around 30-40 psi, and the cut-out pressure should be 10-15 psi higher. The optimal pressure range for a residential water system is between 40-60 psi.
| Pressure | Setting |
|---|---|
| Cut-in | 30-40 psi |
| Cut-out | 40-55 psi |
How to Install a Submersible Well Pump
Here is a step-by-step guide on how to install a submersible well pump:
- Gather your materials. You will need a submersible well pump, a length of 1-1/4 inch diameter well pipe, a check valve, a pressure switch, a pressure tank, a 1-1/4 inch diameter well seal, and electrical wire.
- Dig a hole. The hole should be at least 18 inches in diameter and 4 feet deep.
- Install the well pipe. Insert the well pipe into the hole and drive it into the ground using a sledgehammer.
- Install the check valve. The check valve should be installed at the bottom of the well pipe.
- Install the pressure switch. The pressure switch should be installed on the well pipe, about 2 feet above the check valve.
- Install the pressure tank. The pressure tank should be installed on a concrete pad.
- Install the well seal. The well seal should be installed on the top of the well pipe.
- Connect the electrical wire. The electrical wire should be connected to the pressure switch, the pressure tank, and the submersible well pump.
- Turn on the pump. Turn on the pump and check for leaks.
People also ask
How much does it cost to install a submersible well pump?
The cost of installing a submersible well pump will vary depending on the depth of the well, the size of the pump, and the labor costs in your area. However, you can expect to pay between $1,000 and $3,000 for the installation.
How long does a submersible well pump last?
Submersible well pumps typically last for between 5 and 15 years. However, the lifespan of the pump will depend on the quality of the water, the amount of use, and the maintenance that is performed.
What are the benefits of a submersible well pump?
Submersible well pumps are the most efficient type of well pump. They are also quieter than other types of pumps, and they are not as likely to freeze in the winter.
