The well pump is an essential asset for many homes and businesses. It is a device used to extract water from underground wells, which can then be used for drinking, irrigation, and other purposes. Well pumps come in various styles, from traditional manual pumps to modern electric and submersible pumps. How much does it cost for well pump?
When replacing or setting up a fresh well pump, the money typically varies between $1,000 and $2,750. Generally, it costs around $1,750. The type of pump and the depth, area, and size of the well itself influences the cost of a well pump.
The cost of the unit and installation will differ depending on the pump type. In today’s article, I will explain the cost for well pump and its replacement cost.
Cost For Well Pump: Types Of Well Pump
There are various kinds of well pumps on the market that vary in cost, setup expenses, and performance:
Submersible Pumps
Submersible pumps have become a more up-to-date alternative to jet pumps, costing considerably more. They are typically created from cast iron, stainless steel, and at times thermoplastic. These pumps are enclosed, resulting in fewer repair requirements and reduced energy costs for homeowners.
Though the initial expenditure may be costly, submersible pumps can be cost-effective long-term. These pumps can generate pressure quicker than jet pumps, are noiseless, and consume less energy.
Windmill Water Pumps
Windmill water pumps can be a costly investment. However, they are the best option for independent living or for places that experience power blackouts. Installing these pumps is pricey unless you already have an established pole or tower.
The cost of installing a tower can range from $10,000 and $20,000, not to mention the expense of the wind turbine and the pump that goes with it.
Hand Pumps
A traditional hand pump is the best way to live completely away from the power grid. You may exert much effort to get enough water for a single shower, but you’ll never worry about losing access to your well due to a storm or a power outage. Hand pumps are also one of the most economical solutions out there.
Jet Pumps
Jet pumps, an older model of well pumps, generate less pressure and water flow compared to the more advanced submersible pumps. Jet pumps are prone to the issue of losing their prime, which implies that the rotating impeller inside the pump (which requires to be submerged in liquid to generate enough lift to transfer) ends up being filled with air.
Contemporary submersible pumps are fine with this difficulty since they are pre-prime and are always underwater.
Constant-Pressure Pumps
Constant-pressure well pumps are among the most costly pumps that can be bought. This is because they have a VFD (variable frequency drive system), which guarantees that the water pressure in the house remains consistent, no matter how many fixtures like faucets, showers and toilets are running simultaneously.
This clever system is complex and may require costly maintenance, but it will deliver a steady, balanced water pressure.
Solar Pumps
Solar pumps are an ideal solution for people living in areas with limited access to electricity as they use the energy from the sun to operate submersible or jet pumps.
Combining solar energy with a top-notch submersible system can be an excellent investment unless you live in a region where inclement weather is common, reducing solar energy’s effectiveness.
Pressure Tank
Most wells will transfer the water to a pressurized tank for storage if you don’t reside in an area with hills. If there is an issue with the water pressure, it could be an issue with the storage tank, not necessarily the well’s pump. The cost of a new pressurized tank of varying capacities can range from $750 to $4,000.
Cost For Well Pump: Installation Cost
The expense of installing a new pump for your house falls within the range of $1,250 to $5,500, including installation. This expenditure largely depends on the size and kind of pump, location, depth, and size of your well.
Here’s the cost for well pump installation:
Average Cost | $1,750 |
Highest Cost | $5,500 |
Lowest Cost | $200 |
An important aspect that affects the expense of setting up a fresh well pump is the kind of pump:
- Deep jet pumps are costly and range between $400 and $1,500
- Hand pumps are inexpensive and range between $150 and $1,500
- Windmill water pumps are expensive and range between $5,000 and $20,000
- Submersible pumps are affordable and cost between $200 and $1,200
- Shallow Jet pumps are cheap and range between $300 and $1,000
- Solar pumps are costly and range between $1,500 and $6,500
- Constant Pressure pumps cost between $2,000 and $5,000.
Cost For Well Pump: Replacement Cost
It may be more cost-effective to replace an existing well pump instead of buying a new one. Certain types of pumps can be upgraded instead of fully swapped out. The cost of replacing well pump ranges from $250 to $5,000, with the majority of people indicating that it is around $1,750.
Here’s the cost for well pump replacement:
Average Cost | $1,750 |
Highest Cost | $5,000 |
Lowest Cost | $250 |
Cost For Well Pump: Factors That Affect The Cost Of Well Pump Installation Or Replacement
Various elements will influence the expense of either setting up a fresh well pump or substituting an existing one. The size of the well is a significant element, but it’s also necessary to consider the kind of pump, the depth of the well, and if there are any problems with the pressure tank in the current system.
Well Size and Depth
The cost of adding or exchanging a well pump depends on the size and depth of the well. Installing pumps in shallow wells is more efficient and economical as they can be equipped with shallow pumps suitable for wells not deeper than 25 feet, requiring less labor.
It is indispensable to employ deep pumps when assembling a well that plunges to a maximum of 150 feet or lower, even though they could be a costlier choice to set up and purchase.
Pump Type
The expense of purchasing a new pump will vary depending on the particular model you are looking for. Generally speaking, basic shallow pumps and hand pumps have the lowest price tag, usually around $100, while more powerful solar pumps with greater pressure and capacity can cost up to $4,000.
Wiring
This will increase your total cost if you require new electrical wiring or need repairs. You can get an accurate assessment from a nearby electrician based on the difficulty of the job and the amount of work involved.
Well Size
Setting up pumps in shallower and narrower wells is more cost-effective as they require less installation effort. As the well gets deeper and wider, the pump and the cost of installation increase.
Pipework
You may also need additional or alternative piping if you change your current jet pump with a new submersible pump. When swapping out a regular well pump, it could be necessary to repair or switch a few pipes. The quantity of pipe needed influences the cost of materials and labor expenses.
Pressure Tank Replacement
If your well pump is malfunctioning, it is not likely the only component that requires replacing. The pressure tank could also be a possible cause, so it is usually beneficial to replace both items simultaneously. Generally, the expenditure of changing the tank lies between $800 and $3,800.
Cost For Well Pump: How To Know If You Need A New Well Pump
If you come across any of the following indicators, it is best to contact an expert in well pumps to inspect the situation in greater detail. Common indications of the need for a new pump include:
- Inconsistent Pressure – If a water pump is not functioning correctly, it may produce a low or irregular water pressure. If there is a pressurized water tank connected to the system, this could be the source of the inconsistency.
- Loud Noises – It is wise to inspect your well pump if you hear strange or loud sounds from your water system.
- Dirty Water – If the water that flows from your plumbing fixtures appears to be contaminated, it could indicate an imminent breakdown of the pump.
- Air In Faucets – If you detect air coming out when you open your faucets, it is likely that your well pump is not working correctly, mainly when the jet pump is on the verge of losing its prime and can’t pump any water.
Most complications discussed earlier are generally due to malfunctions in a well pump system’s electrical or mechanical elements. Unless you have extensive experience with DIY projects, contact a professional to either repair the pump or determine the cost of a new one.
Cost For Well Pump: Replacement Cost
The expense of changing your well pump will be determined by considerations such as well capacity and pump model. An underwater pump made of stainless steel will cost more than a shallow jet pump that can only pump a single gallon every minute. Generally, the price for a well pump ranges from $200 to $500, exclusive of the installation fee.
To give an idea of the expenses, here’s a summary of the cost of each type of pump and its installation:
- Deep well jet pumps – Deep well jet pumps tend to cost more than the shallow variants, amounting to approximately $300. Although jet pumps are cheaper than submersible pumps, their dependability is not as strong.
- Installation – The amount of money required for installation can vary significantly and depend on the project’s scope, the well’s depth, the kind of pump, the geographical area, the components necessary, and the nature of the ground in your yard. Consulting with a contractor to get a quotation is the optimal method for procuring exact pricing information.
- Shallow well jet pumps – Shallow well pumps are situated directly in the well house & substituting them is usually the most cost-effective option, around $200. Additional protection and features, such as wrapping exposed pipes and installing an insulated bag, will increase the price.
- Deep well submersible well pumps – The price of a submersible well pump differs based on the motor’s power. Motors with less horsepower typically cost around $400, whereas motors with higher horsepower may cost more than $500. Submersible models usually come with check valves that stop any reverse flow, increasing the replacement cost.
Cost For Well Pump: DIY Well Pump Installation vs. Hiring A Professional
Generally, I advise homeowners to get the appropriate tools and do their home repairs, but it is best to bring in a professional when it comes to issues with well pumps. A skilled expert can accurately identify the problem with your well pump in a prompt & secure manner and give you the correct advice to fix it.
Resolving problems with a well pump usually involves tackling electrical and plumbing difficulties, both highly technical areas of expertise. Unless you are a proficient DIY enthusiast, I strongly suggest you consult an expert. If the pump requires extraction, most well pump experts will possess a derrick truck or a puller machine to take it out securely.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions) On Cost For Well Pump
1. How much does it cost to put a new pump in a well?
Generally, the expenditure to put in or replace a well pump lies between $1,000 and $2,750, with the countrywide average being approximately $1,750. The particular kind of well pump you install or substitute can significantly alter the individual and installment costs.
2. What is the lifespan of a well pump?
The expected life of a well pump is usually between eight and 15 years. However, the exact age of your pump can be impacted by various factors. The most decisive factor in determining its life expectancy is the rate at which the pump operates.
3. Can I replace my well pump myself?
It is feasible to fit a new well pump by yourself. However, it is usually not advised. If the well is deeper than 300 feet, professional installation is essential.
4. Is it difficult to replace a well pump?
Replacing a well pump is not a simple task and is generally not something an individual would want to do on their own. The job’s difficulty can vary depending on the depth of the well. To begin, the current pump must be removed, which can be challenging without the right equipment.
Summary: Cost For Well Pump
The cost of installing a well pump is generally between $200 and $5,500, while replacing an existing system is roughly between $250 and $5,000.
It is important to remember that while there are many different types of well pumps, they all fall within a specific price range. When shopping around for a new well pump, make sure you take into account the cost and other factors. The most crucial aspect that affects the cost of installing a fresh well pump or replacing an existing one is the size of the well.
Installation cost of a new well pump will depend on several factors, including well size, the type of pump, and whether a pressure tank is currently installed. The cost of replacing an existing pump will also depend on the size and type of the existing unit.
When you have a well pump, you must maintain it properly. Otherwise, you invite chronic, expensive, and dangerous water problems. For example, leaks, clogs, corrosion, and poor performance can signal that your well pump needs routine maintenance and repairs.
If you are having trouble identifying or communicating with your well pump company, it might be time for a pump inspection.
I hope this article on cost for well pump sounds helpful!
