How To Repair A Well Pump
How to Repair a Well Pump
01/30/2023
Washington homeowners that use a well for their water supply understand that wells need routine maintenance and repairs. The well pump provides clean water throughout the home and eliminates public water expenses for the owner. The installations are efficient and won’t present higher energy costs for the property owner.
Professional plumbing specialists, like the experts at LaVergne’s Plumbing & Heating, can provide inspections, repairs, and complete replacements to keep a well in good working order. When a pump is faulty or not working properly, it will not pull water through the water lines. As a result, you may see dirt or rust flowing into your sinks or showers. Low or no water pressure can also mean the pump is malfunctioning. At the first sign of a problem with the pump, the property owner should set up an inspection.
Review the Design Specifications for the Well
Before the plumber begins a repair, they must first determine how far into the ground the pump rests. A review of the well specifications shows our technicians the best options for opening the well and accessing the pump without damaging the well or its components. This information also helps our plumbing professionals plan the project and determine what tools are needed before they get started.
Preparing for the Pump Removal
The plumbers will use a pitless adapter wrench to find and connect to the pump, and then pull the pump out of the well. The T connector for the tool is adjustable, and the plumbers can make it any length they need.
This is beneficial when connecting to a pump and pulling it 30 feet out of the ground. It is not an easy process and one that property owners should never attempt on their own. They could cause damage to the well and need far more repairs than just the pump. A professional will have the correct tool for the job and the expertise to do the job expertly and efficiently.
Remove the Well Cap and Inspect the Well
A well cap is secured in place with at least three bolts that must be loosened. The plumber will not remove the bolts from the cap to keep them more secure and avoid losing them during the repair. A hammer is used to pull the cap open to inspect the well further. Flashlights may be necessary to see inside the well since it may be installed in a well house that doesn’t receive direct sunlight. Our technicians can then review the well for damage and signs of major issues.
The pitless adapter wrench is connected to the top of the cap. When connecting to the pump with the adapter, the plumber will complete the steps at a slow pace to prevent issues. If there is corrosion inside the well, it can build up around the adapter and cause issues. The plumbers will also take the adapter with a hammer to make a better connection.
Pulling the Pump Out
Pulling the pump can be a long process. The pump will be covered in mud, and our technicians will clean mud and other debris from the pump to complete the assessment. They will review the product to find the manufacturer and model number and determine if the pump can be repaired.
If the pump is not salvageable, the professionals on our team will provide you with an estimate for a new product and place an order to get the well pump. Our team will set up the new installation according to the availability of the new pump and the current service schedule.
Testing the Components of the Pump
If the product is repairable, our technicians start by testing the motor, the impeller, and the torque arrestor. If the components are not working properly, they can be replaced to give the pump proper functionality and pull water from the well into the property.
They will also test the electrical wiring and the safety rope. Any components that are working can be used to correct the plumbing issue and restore water to the property. They will disassemble all parts that aren’t damaged and rebuild the pump whenever possible. This could save the owner a lot of money and time.
If the pump components are no longer working, our technicians will disconnect the wiring for the existing pump from the electrical wiring system and prepare them for the new installation.
A New Pump Installation
First, they add the stainless steel thread into the top section of the pump. A check valve and stainless reducer are connected to the pump’s hose line. Next, they crimp the connectors and add heat shrink materials on top of the connections. A torch is used to seal the connection. Electrical tape is wrapped around the entire connection to give it extra protection.
Next, we reconnect the safety rope to the new pump. Using a torque arrestor we can test out the pump. Once it is working as expected, the plumbers will begin the long descent back into the well and install the pump back into the ground.
Where to Get Repairs and New Installations
LaVergne’s Plumbing provides high-quality plumbing services for all property owners in our service area, and we guarantee all our services. Our plumbing specialists provide complete services including inspections, routine maintenance, repairs, and new installations. We have been serving Skagit and Whatcom counties since 1951. We provide high-quality service and guarantee all services and new installations. You can learn more about getting a new well pump replacement by contacting us at (360) 660-1389 and setting up an appointment.
Homeowners who use a well to supply water to their property need to schedule regular inspections and routine maintenance to eliminate issues. Well-maintained wells and their components can give you many years of safe water services, and they will provide your home with a dedicated water supply. If issues arise, contact LaVergne’s Plumbing right away to identify the problem and correct it.