How Do I Pull a Submersible Well Pump?

Submersible well pumps are widely used in residential, agricultural, and industrial settings to extract water from deep underground sources. Over time, these pumps can encounter issues such as decreased performance, mechanical failure, or clogging, necessitating their removal for inspection, repair, or replacement. Pulling a submersible well pump may seem daunting, but with the right tools and instructions, it can be accomplished efficiently. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to pull a submersible well pump safely and effectively.

Tools and Materials Needed

Before starting the process, gather the necessary tools and materials. You will need

1. Wrenches Various sizes to fit your wellhead and pump components. 2. Pliers To grip and manipulate wires or joints. 3. Rope or cable Strong enough to support the weight of the pump. 4. Pipe wrenches For loosening the discharge head and connections. 5. Safety equipment Gloves, eye protection, and a hard hat. 6. Well cap removal tool If your well has a secured cap. 7. Pump pulling device A winch or hoist is highly recommended for safety.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Turn Off Power Safety comes first. Before you begin, ensure that the electrical supply to the pump is entirely turned off. Locate the circuit breaker that powers the pump and switch it off.

2. Remove the Well Cap Using a well cap removal tool, carefully take off any protective cap that covers the top of the well. This step exposes the well casing and allows access to the pump.

3. Disconnect the Electrical Wiring Safely detach the electrical wiring connected to the pump. This step may involve loosening wire nuts or unscrewing terminals, so be cautious to keep everything organized for reinstallation.

4. Loosen the Discharge Head Use a pipe wrench to loosen and disconnect the discharge head from the well casing. The discharge head is the component that connects the pump to the surface plumbing. Once loose, carefully remove it to access the pump's interior.

5. Attach the Pulling Cable Next, secure a strong rope or cable to the pump. There is typically a lifting bail or another attachment point on the pump. Be sure it is firmly attached to handle the pump's weight.

6. Pull the Pump Use a winch or hoist to slowly pull the pump out of the well. Be sure to maintain a steady, even force to avoid damaging any surrounding piping or electrical connections as the pump comes up. Keep an eye on the pump as it ascends, checking for any obstacles that could snag.

7. Inspect the Pump Once the pump is fully out, take a moment to examine it for any obvious signs of wear or damage. If there’s visible debris, clogged intake, or other issues, they may need addressing before reinstalling or replacing the pump.

8. Perform Necessary Repairs or Replacements Depending on your findings, you might need to either repair the existing pump or replace it with a new one. Ensure any new or repaired components are tested and in good working order before reinstallation.

9. Reinstall the Pump To reinstall the pump, reverse the process followed above. Lower the pump back into the well gradually, ensuring that the electrical wiring and discharge connections are secured properly.

10. Reconnect Power After all connections are made and components are reassembled, restore power to the pump. Monitor its operation to confirm everything is functioning correctly.

Conclusion

Pulling a submersible well pump requires a combination of safety precautions, proper tools, and meticulous attention to detail. Whether you are performing maintenance on an existing pump or replacing it, the process is manageable with preparation and care. If at any point you feel uncertain or overwhelmed, do not hesitate to consult with a professional well technician to ensure the job is completed safely and effectively.