Pulling Your Well Pump: A DIY Guide

Hey there, DIY enthusiasts! Ever found yourselves staring down a non-functional deep well submersible pump, wondering what to do next? Well, you're in the right place! This guide will walk you through how to pull a deep well submersible pump yourself, saving you some serious cash in the process. Whether you're a seasoned DIYer or just starting out, we'll cover everything from the initial assessment to the final extraction. So, grab your tools, gather your friends (you'll need them!), and let's get this show on the road!

Understanding Your Deep Well Submersible Pump

Before we dive into the nitty-gritty of pulling the pump, let's get acquainted with the star of the show: your deep well submersible pump. These pumps are designed to sit deep inside your well, pushing water up to the surface. They're incredibly efficient but, like any mechanical device, can run into issues. Common problems include a burnt-out motor, a seized impeller, or a simple electrical failure. Knowing what kind of pump you have is important too! Most submersible pumps are cylindrical and made to fit neatly inside your well casing. The size of your well casing will determine the size of pump you can use. Most residential wells are 4" or 6" in diameter, but your pump may vary. Check your well's original installation documents if you have them, they will specify the size and type of pump installed.

Key Components and How They Work

Your submersible pump is made up of several key components. At the top, you'll find the motor, which does the heavy lifting of converting electricity into mechanical energy. Below that is the pump section, which houses the impellers that actually push the water. The pump assembly is typically connected to a drop pipe, which carries the water to the surface. Along the way, you'll find the electrical cable, which provides power to the motor, and a safety rope (hopefully!), which helps prevent the pump from falling back into the well. The entire assembly is designed to withstand the harsh conditions of being submerged in water for extended periods. But the fact is, all pumps fail at some point and need to be pulled out for repair or replacement. The deeper the pump is, the more complicated the process becomes, but it's always worth a shot to try and pull it yourself first! When your pump fails, the first thing to do is to check the electrical supply. Make sure the breaker hasn't tripped and that there is power to the well. If the breaker is okay, then it's time to move on to the next steps.

Preparing for the Pump Pull: Safety First!

Alright, before we start yanking things out of the ground, let's talk safety. Working with electricity and heavy equipment requires caution. Here's what you need to do before you even think about touching your well pump.

Safety Gear Essentials

First, gather your safety gear. This includes work gloves to protect your hands, eye protection to shield your eyes from debris, and sturdy footwear to keep you stable. If you're working around the well casing, which can be slippery when wet, it's a good idea to wear rubber boots to avoid any slip and falls. If you have access to it, wear a hard hat to protect against anything falling from above. Safety first, always!

Disconnecting Power and Water Lines

Now, it's time to disconnect the power. Turn off the circuit breaker that supplies power to the well pump. Double-check with a voltage tester to make sure the power is off. Safety is not something you can take shortcuts with! Next, disconnect the water line from the pressure tank or well head. This usually involves loosening a union or a fitting. Have a bucket ready to catch any residual water. If you can, attach a valve to the line before you detach it, so you can reduce the water flow.

Gathering Your Tools and Equipment

Next, let's gather the necessary tools and equipment. You'll need a pipe wrench to loosen and tighten the fittings, a chain wrench to grip the drop pipe, and a vise to secure the pipe. You'll also need a lifting device, which could be a come-along, a chain hoist, or even a sturdy tripod. A rope or cable is essential for pulling the pump, and it should be strong enough to handle the weight of the pump and the drop pipe. Make sure you have a socket set, screwdrivers, and pliers, too. And don't forget a marker to mark the well casing and drop pipe as you remove them.

The Pump Pulling Process: Step-by-Step Guide

Alright, guys, with all the preparations done, it's time for the main event: pulling the pump. This is where the fun (and the muscle) comes in. Here's a step-by-step guide to get you through it.

Step 1: Accessing the Well Head and Preparing the Well Casing

First things first, access the well head. This usually involves removing a cover or lid. Be careful, as the well head can be a tight space. Once you've accessed the well head, take a good look at the well casing. Make sure there are no cracks or damage. Clear away any debris that might interfere with the pump pull. Now, it's time to get ready to pull the pump!

Step 2: Loosening the Well Casing Cap and Drop Pipe Fittings

Next, it's time to loosen the well casing cap. This is the top of the well, and it seals the well to prevent contaminants from entering. Use your pipe wrench to loosen any bolts or fittings that secure the cap. Once the cap is loose, you can start working on the drop pipe fittings. If there is a pitless adapter, you need to carefully remove it. Loosen the fittings that connect the drop pipe to the well head. Depending on the installation, you might have a union or threaded fittings. Use your pipe wrench to loosen them. Be patient, as these fittings can be stubborn after years of sitting underground. Remember that you can damage the pump if you rush the process.

Step 3: Attaching the Lifting Device and Securing the Pump

With the fittings loosened, it's time to attach your lifting device. Attach the come-along, chain hoist, or tripod to a secure point above the well. If you're using a tripod, make sure it's stable and can handle the weight of the pump and drop pipe. Now, attach a chain or cable to the drop pipe just above the pump. Ensure the lifting device is properly anchored and that the chain or cable is securely attached to the drop pipe. Slowly begin to lift the pump out of the well. Have a helper monitor the progress, and make sure the drop pipe is coming up smoothly.

Step 4: Raising the Pump and Drop Pipe: The Extraction

Carefully start raising the pump and drop pipe. As the pump comes up, you'll need to disconnect the drop pipe sections. Usually, the drop pipe is in 10- or 20-foot sections, connected by threaded couplings. Use your pipe wrench to loosen the couplings as the pipe sections reach the surface. Have your helper support the weight of the pipe as you disconnect each section. Mark each section as you remove it so you know which one is which when you put the pump back in. Continue lifting and disconnecting the drop pipe sections until the pump reaches the surface.

Step 5: Removing the Pump and Inspecting the Well

Once the pump is fully extracted, carefully set it aside. Inspect the well for any obstructions or damage. Look for any signs of corrosion or debris. Use a flashlight to get a good view of the well. If everything looks good, inspect the pump to see what the issue is. If the pump is damaged, make a note of the parts you need to replace. If the well looks like it has debris in it, be sure to call a well professional before putting the pump back in. Make sure to inspect the drop pipe for any damage too.

Troubleshooting Common Issues During the Pump Pull

Even with the best plans, things can go wrong. Here are some common issues you might encounter and how to deal with them.

Stuck Pumps and How to Deal with Them

Sometimes, a pump can get stuck in the well. This could be due to sediment buildup, corrosion, or the pump simply getting wedged against something. If your pump is stuck, don't panic! First, try gently lifting and lowering the pump while rotating the drop pipe. This can sometimes free the pump. If that doesn't work, you might need to use a specialized tool called a pump retrieval tool. These tools can grab the pump and allow you to apply more force. For this step, it's a good idea to hire a well professional, because you could damage the well in the process.

Dealing with Broken Drop Pipes and Cables

If the drop pipe or electrical cable breaks during the pull, you have a bigger problem. This is a serious issue. Try to secure the remaining pipe or cable to prevent it from falling back into the well. In some cases, you might be able to use a retrieval tool to grab the broken pieces. If you're not comfortable with this, it's best to call a well professional. They have specialized equipment to handle these situations. Be careful and don't force anything; you don't want to cause further damage.

Handling Electrical Hazards

Always, always, always turn off the power to the well pump before starting any work. Even with the power off, there's a risk of encountering live wires or electrical components. If you're not comfortable working with electricity, it's best to call a qualified electrician. Avoid touching any wires or components unless you're sure they are safe. If you feel a tingling sensation or see sparks, stop immediately and call for help.

Reinstalling Your Deep Well Submersible Pump

Now that you've pulled the pump, you'll have to reinstall it. Here's how to do it.

Inspecting and Replacing Parts

Before reinstalling the pump, take the time to inspect it thoroughly. Check the motor for any signs of damage, such as corrosion or wear. Inspect the impellers and the pump housing. Replace any worn or damaged parts. If the pump motor is bad, it's usually best to replace the whole pump. This is also a good time to replace the drop pipe and electrical cable if they are old or damaged. Remember that you will have to order the parts ahead of time, so you might be without water for a little while.

Reassembling the Pump and Drop Pipe

Reassemble the pump and drop pipe in the reverse order of removal. Start by connecting the drop pipe sections, making sure to tighten the couplings securely. As you connect each section, attach the electrical cable to the drop pipe. Ensure the cable is secured properly to prevent it from getting caught or damaged. You can use electrical tape or cable ties to secure it to the drop pipe. Lower the pump and drop pipe carefully back into the well. It is important to not let the pump drop too fast or else it could damage the pump itself. Ensure everything is in place and aligned properly.

Lowering the Pump Back into the Well

Carefully lower the pump back into the well. Guide the drop pipe and electrical cable down the well casing. Make sure the pump is not getting caught on anything. As the pump goes down, you'll need to reconnect the drop pipe sections. Continue until the pump reaches the appropriate depth. Refer to the manufacturer's specifications for the recommended depth. Once the pump is in place, secure the well casing cap and reconnect the water line. Turn the power back on and test the pump.

Final Thoughts and Tips

Pulling a deep well submersible pump is a challenging but rewarding DIY project. By following these steps and taking the necessary precautions, you can save money and learn a valuable skill. But if you feel overwhelmed or uncomfortable, don't hesitate to call a professional. Safety first, always!

Important Tips and Considerations

Here are some final tips and considerations:

• Always disconnect the power before starting any work. Safety comes first!
• Use the right tools for the job to avoid damaging your well.
• Take your time and don't rush the process.
• Have a helper to assist with lifting and support.
• Refer to the manufacturer's instructions for specific guidance.
• Be prepared to call a professional if you encounter any unexpected problems.

When to Call a Professional

While this guide provides you with the steps to pull a deep well submersible pump, there are times when you should call a professional. If you're not comfortable working with electricity or heavy equipment, it's best to call an expert. If the pump is stuck or if there are any broken parts, a professional will have the right tools and expertise to handle the situation. If you're unsure about any part of the process, don't hesitate to seek professional help. After all, there is no replacement for the peace of mind of knowing the job is done right.

Happy pumping, everyone!