How To Remove A Submersible Water Well Pump

There’s nothing quite like the self-sufficiency of a private well, providing fresh water for your home, cabin, or even your off-grid workshop. But when that reliable flow dwindles to a trickle, or stops altogether, you know trouble’s brewing beneath the surface. Dealing with a malfunctioning well pump can feel daunting, especially when it’s a submersible unit buried deep in the earth.

You’re probably facing a situation where your water pressure is low, inconsistent, or completely gone. This often points to issues with the heart of your water system: the submersible well pump. The good news? With the right knowledge, tools, and a healthy dose of caution, you can tackle the task of how to remove a submersible water well pump yourself.

This comprehensive guide from FatBoysOffroad will walk you through every critical step. We’ll cover everything from vital safety precautions and gathering your gear to the precise method of retrieving your pump. Get ready to reclaim your water supply with confidence and skill.

Table of Contents

Why You Might Need to Remove Your Submersible Well Pump

Understanding the “why” behind a pump removal can help you diagnose the problem and decide on the best course of action. It’s rarely a simple whim; usually, it’s a response to a clear failure.

Common Symptoms of a Failing Pump

Your well pump rarely fails without warning. Keep an eye out for these telltale signs:

No Water: The most obvious and alarming symptom.
Low Water Pressure: Showers become a drizzle, and faucets barely flow.
Intermittent Water Supply: Water comes and goes, often with no clear pattern.
Air Sputtering from Faucets: Indicates the pump might be struggling to pull water.
High Electric Bills: A pump working overtime due to inefficiency or a blockage.
Strange Noises: Grinding or humming from the pressure tank area could point to pump issues.

These symptoms don’t always mean the pump itself is bad. Sometimes, it’s a faulty pressure switch or a leak in the plumbing. However, if these checks don’t pan out, your submersible pump is likely the culprit.

Deciding Between Repair and Replacement

Once the pump is out, you’ll need to decide if it’s worth repairing or if a full replacement is necessary. This often comes down to the pump’s age, the cost of parts, and the severity of the damage.

Older pumps, especially those over 10-15 years old, are often better off being replaced. The efficiency gains of a new pump can quickly offset the cost. If it’s a newer pump with a minor issue like a seized impeller from sediment, a repair might be viable.

Safety First: Essential Precautions for Well Pump Removal

Working with a well pump involves electricity, heavy equipment, and potentially deep water. Ignoring safety is not an option. Treat this operation with the respect it deserves.

Electrical Disconnection is Non-Negotiable

Before you even think about touching the wellhead, you must cut the power. This isn’t just flipping a switch; it’s about positive lockout.

Locate the Breaker: Find the dedicated circuit breaker for your well pump in your electrical panel.
Turn it OFF: Flip the breaker to the OFF position.
Test for Power: Use a non-contact voltage tester at the pressure switch or pump control box to confirm no power is present.
Lockout/Tagout: If available, use a lockout device on the breaker and tag it to prevent accidental re-energizing.

Even with the breaker off, be aware that other circuits might still be live. Always assume wires are hot until proven otherwise.

Securing the Well Casing and Area

The well casing is your access point. Ensure the area around it is clear, stable, and safe.

Clear the Workspace: Remove any debris, tools, or tripping hazards from around the wellhead.
Secure the Well Cap: Make sure the well cap is securely fastened until you’re ready to remove it.
Warn Others: Inform anyone nearby that you’re working on the well and keep children and pets away.

Consider placing cones or barriers if you’re working in a high-traffic area, even on your own property.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Never skimp on PPE. It’s your first line of defense against injury.

Heavy-Duty Gloves: Protect your hands from sharp edges, dirt, and potential electrical hazards.
Safety Glasses: Essential for protecting your eyes from debris or splashing water.
Steel-Toed Boots: Protect your feet from dropped tools or the pump itself.
Hearing Protection: If using power tools or a hoist, protect your ears.
Work Clothes: Wear durable clothing that can get dirty and offers some protection.

Think through every potential hazard and equip yourself accordingly. Safety isn’t an afterthought; it’s the foundation of a successful job.

Gathering Your Gear: Tools and Materials for the Job

You wouldn’t head off-road without the right recovery gear, and you shouldn’t attempt a well pump removal without the proper tools. Having everything ready saves time and frustration.

Lifting Equipment and Well Head Accessories

The pump is heavy, and it’s deep. You’ll need mechanical assistance.

Well Pump Hoist or Tripod: Absolutely essential for safely lifting the pump and drop pipe. Don’t try to “muscle” it out.
Pipe Wrenches (2 large): For disconnecting and handling the drop pipe sections.
Submersible Pump Puller Clamps (Well Vise): These specialized clamps grip the pipe securely, allowing you to work on one section while the rest of the pipe is held.
Heavy-Duty Rope or Cable: Often attached to the pump for safety, make sure it’s in good condition.
Clean Tarps or Plastic Sheeting: To lay out tools and keep the pump and pipe clean as they come out of the well.

A good hoist can be rented, or if you plan on frequent well maintenance, it’s a worthwhile investment. Some DIYers fabricate a sturdy tripod with a chain hoist.

Basic Hand Tools and Measuring Devices

You’ll need a standard set of tools for various connections and disconnections.

Screwdrivers (various sizes): For electrical connections and well cap fasteners.
Pliers (lineman’s, needle-nose): Useful for cutting and stripping wires.
Wire Strippers and Cutters: For handling the electrical cable.
Electrical Tape: For re-taping connections.
Utility Knife: For cutting heat shrink or other materials.
Tape Measure: To gauge the depth of the well or pipe sections.

Have a bucket or toolbox specifically for these smaller items to keep them organized.

Essential Spare Parts and Supplies

Even if you’re just removing the pump for inspection, have these on hand.

New Well Seal: It’s almost always a good idea to replace the well seal when opening the well.
Teflon Tape or Pipe Dope: For sealing threaded connections on the drop pipe.
Heat Shrink Splice Kits: If you plan to replace the pump and need to re-splice the electrical cable.
Clean Water and Rags: For cleaning off the pump and pipe as it comes out.

Consider having a replacement pump on standby if you suspect yours is beyond repair. This minimizes downtime for your water supply.

The Step-by-Step Process: How to Remove a Submersible Water Well Pump Safely

This is where the rubber meets the road. Follow these steps carefully to successfully how to remove a submersible water well pump without incident.

Preparing the Well Site and Disconnecting Power

Before any physical work begins, double-check your initial safety steps.

Confirm Power is OFF: Re-verify that the well pump’s breaker is off and locked out. Test for voltage at the pressure switch.
Clear the Area: Ensure a wide, clean, and stable working space around the wellhead. Lay down your tarps.
Remove the Well Cap: Carefully unbolt and lift the well cap. Be mindful of any wires or conduits attached to it.

The well cap protects the well from contaminants. Keep it clean and set it aside in a safe place.

Relieving Pressure and Disconnecting Plumbing

You need to drain the system and detach the discharge pipe.

Drain the System: Open a faucet inside your house to relieve any remaining pressure in the water lines and drain the pressure tank.
Locate the Pitless Adapter: Most modern wells use a pitless adapter to connect the horizontal discharge pipe to the vertical drop pipe. This is typically just below the frost line.
Disconnect the Pitless Adapter: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for your specific pitless adapter. Often, this involves using a specialized tool or a second pipe to pull up on a sealing mechanism, allowing the vertical pipe to be lifted free. This is a crucial step in how to remove a submersible water well pump.

If you don’t have a pitless adapter, you’ll have a direct connection at the wellhead, which might be easier to disconnect.

Securing the Pump and Beginning the Lift

This is where your hoist and pipe clamps come into play. Patience and smooth movements are key.

Attach Lifting Equipment: Securely attach your hoist or tripod directly over the well casing.
Grab the Drop Pipe: Carefully pull up the top section of the drop pipe. It’s usually made of PVC or galvanized steel.
Install Well Vise/Clamps: Once you have a good grip, install your submersible pump puller clamps (well vise) onto the drop pipe, resting them firmly on the well casing. This supports the entire weight of the pump and pipe.
Disconnect Electrical Cable: Carefully separate the electrical cable from the drop pipe. It’s usually taped or zip-tied every few feet. Cut these ties as you lift.
Disconnect Safety Rope: If there’s a safety rope, detach it from the wellhead and keep it managed as you pull.

The pipe can be slippery and heavy. Take your time and ensure everything is securely clamped before proceeding.

Managing the Drop Pipe, Wires, and Safety Rope

The lifting process is repetitive and requires coordination.

Lift and Clamp: Use the hoist to lift the next section of the drop pipe. As it clears the well casing, immediately secure it with a second set of well clamps (if you have two) or reposition your single clamp.
Disconnect Pipe Section: Once the pipe is securely clamped, unscrew the upper section of the drop pipe. Use your two large pipe wrenches, one to hold the lower section, one to turn the upper.
Lay Down Pipe: Carefully lay the disconnected pipe section, along with the electrical cable and safety rope, onto your clean tarp.
Repeat: Continue this process, lifting, clamping, disconnecting, and laying out sections of pipe, until the pump is visible.

This is often a two-person job, one operating the hoist, the other managing the pipe, wires, and rope. Keep the electrical cable and safety rope from tangling or dropping back into the well.

Inspecting the Pump Upon Retrieval

Once the pump is fully out, take a moment to examine it.

Initial Visual Check: Look for obvious signs of damage, such as a cracked casing, broken wires, or excessive sediment buildup.
Check Impeller: See if the impeller spins freely or if it’s jammed with sand or debris.
Inspect the Motor: Look for any signs of overheating or water intrusion.

A careful inspection here can often pinpoint the problem and guide your next steps.

What to Do Once the Pump is Out

Congratulations, you’ve completed the challenging part! Now it’s time to assess the situation and plan for the next phase.

Troubleshooting and Diagnosis

With the pump out, you can perform more detailed checks.

Continuity Test: Use a multimeter to check the electrical continuity of the pump’s motor windings. A lack of continuity indicates an open circuit, meaning a bad motor.
Insulation Resistance Test: Check for shorts to ground, which can indicate damaged wiring or motor insulation.
Inspect Check Valve: The pump’s check valve prevents water from flowing back down the well. Ensure it’s not stuck open or closed.

If you’re not comfortable with electrical testing, consider taking the pump to a well service professional for diagnosis. Sometimes, simple repairs like a new check valve or impeller are all that’s needed.

Preparing for a New Pump Installation

If your old pump is beyond repair, you’ll need a new one. This is an excellent opportunity for an upgrade.

Match Horsepower and GPM: Replace with a pump of similar horsepower (HP) and gallons per minute (GPM) ratings, unless your well capacity or household needs have changed.
Consider Pump Type: Think about specific needs, like constant pressure pumps.
New Drop Pipe and Wires: It’s often wise to replace old, brittle drop pipe and electrical wiring, especially if it shows signs of wear or age.
New Safety Rope: Always use a new, strong safety rope. It’s cheap insurance.

The installation process is essentially the reverse of removal, but equally critical for ensuring a long-lasting, reliable water supply.

Frequently Asked Questions About Submersible Well Pump Removal

Many DIYers have similar questions when tackling this project. Here are some common ones:

How long does it take to remove a well pump?

For a typical residential well (100-200 feet deep), expect it to take anywhere from 3 to 6 hours for an experienced DIYer or team. If you encounter unexpected issues like seized pipes or a difficult pitless adapter, it could take significantly longer. Proper preparation can speed things up considerably.

Can one person remove a submersible well pump?

While technically possible for shallow wells and lighter pumps using specialized equipment, it’s highly recommended to have at least two people. The drop pipe, pump, and water are heavy, and managing the pipe, electrical cable, and safety rope simultaneously is challenging and unsafe for one person. Safety should always be your top priority.

What are the biggest risks when removing a well pump?

The primary risks include electrical shock (if power isn’t properly disconnected), dropping the pump or pipe back into the well (potentially causing damage or making retrieval impossible), and physical injury from heavy lifting or falling equipment. Always prioritize safety steps and use appropriate lifting gear.

How do I know if my well pump needs to be replaced or repaired?

If the pump is old (10+ years), has severe damage (cracked housing, burnt motor), or if the cost of repair approaches the cost of a new pump, replacement is usually the better option. For newer pumps with minor issues like a clogged impeller or a faulty check valve, repair might be feasible. Get a professional opinion if unsure after your initial inspection.

What is a pitless adapter and how does it affect removal?

A pitless adapter is a device that allows the horizontal water line from the well to your house to connect to the vertical drop pipe below the frost line. This eliminates the need for a well pit. For removal, it means you’ll need to use a specific tool (often a second pipe with a male adapter on the end) to pull up on the adapter’s inner mechanism to disconnect it before you can lift the drop pipe and pump.

Tackling the task of how to remove a submersible water well pump is a significant DIY undertaking, but it’s one that can be successfully completed with careful planning, the right tools, and a strong emphasis on safety. Remember, this isn’t just about fixing a broken pump; it’s about restoring your essential water supply and gaining valuable experience.

Always double-check your electrical disconnections, secure your lifting equipment, and work methodically. If you ever feel out of your depth, don’t hesitate to call a qualified well service professional. Your safety and the integrity of your well system are paramount.

Stay safe, stay self-sufficient, and keep that water flowing!

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Thomas Corle

Founder & Automobile expert at FatBoysOffroad

Automobile expert and off-road enthusiast, sharing in-depth knowledge of vehicles, gear, and adventures. Helping readers make smart decisions and enjoy the thrill of off-roading safely and confidently.