Removing a submersible deep well pump can be a challenging task, but with the right guidance and expertise, it can be executed efficiently and safely. This task is often necessary when your pump needs repairs or replacement after years of reliable service. Understanding the intricacies involved in this process contributes immensely to maintaining the longevity of your well system and ensures seamless water supply management.

The first step in successfully removing a deep well pump is preparation. Prior to any physical intervention, it's critical to gather the necessary tools and understanding. You will require a strong helper, a pipe wrench, a high-quality pump puller (or a winch if the pump is positioned deeply), and safety gear including gloves and goggles. Familiarity with the pump setup, the depth of installation, and electrical configurations is also essential, as it helps in anticipating possible challenges.
Safety cannot be overstressed when working on well systems. Ensure that all electrical power to the pump is disconnected. This prevents any accidental activation, which could cause serious injury. Lockout tagout procedures, a standard industry protocol, should be followed to ensure no one inadvertently restores power while you are working.

With safety measures in place, begin the removal process by accessing the wellhead. This usually involves removing any cover or cap that protects the well. Having a sturdy setup to handle the weight of the pump is critical. These pumps can be weighty, often due to the water, sediment, and the depth from which they’re being drawn. A mechanical pump puller or a tripod winch setup can aid significantly, especially in deeper installations.
Once the well cap is off, the next task is detaching the pipes. This stage demands attention as many submersible pumps are located hundreds of feet below ground level, supported by long sections of pipe. Using a pipe wrench, carefully unscrew the pipe sections, starting from the top. It’s important to proceed slowly to avoid damaging the pipes which could lead to significant repair costs or water contamination from pipe debris.
As the pump emerges, be prepared for its weight. A deep well pump typically consists of a long motor coupled with the pump assembly. During extraction, a constant watch for signs of wear, corrosion, or blockage in the pump or pipe sections is beneficial. This preemptive check helps diagnose potential issues that could recur after reinstallation or with a new unit.
how to remove a submersible deep well pump
There’s also a need to disconnect the electrical wiring safely. Because these wires run the length of the piping, special care should be taken not to peel or damage them while removing the pump. Labeling each wire can simplify the reassembly process, ensuring that all connections are restored correctly, a step crucial for the proper future functioning of the pump system.
Professional expertise often recommends conducting a comprehensive inspection of the pump upon removal. Look for signs of mechanical failure such as worn bearings, clogged impellers, or any part that appears off-kilter or tarnished. This analysis not only fixes current issues but informs the necessary maintenance routine for similar equipment.
Reinstallation, or installation of a new pump, should only commence once the issues with the old setup are clear to prevent repeating any mistakes. It’s also recommended that once a pump is removed, you take the opportunity to do a water flow and pressure test on the well. This can highlight any potential concerns with the well structure itself, offering the chance to address them before installing a new pump.
Professional consultation might sometimes be required to determine the exact cause of pump failure and to ascertain if the well is in a suitable condition to support a new or repaired pump. Consulting a specialized technician is especially advisable when unanticipated problems arise or when the pump has reached an unusually early end of service life.
By following these expert-backed methodologies, you ensure process efficiency and safety throughout the removal, guarantee the credibility of your water supply post-maintenance, and enhance the pump’s reliability. Undertaking these steps with due diligence confirms your role as a knowledgeable steward of your water system, ready to tackle the intricacies of deep well management with confidence.