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The average cost to replace or install a new well pump is typically between $1,000 and $2,750, with the national average being about $1,750. The type of well pump you install or replace can greatly change both the unit cost and the installation cost. The overall cost is also affected by the depth, location and size of your well. fountain motor pump
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The price of installing a new well pump for your home will likely fall between $1,250 and $5,500, including installation. This cost greatly depends on the size and type of pump, as well as where it is located and the depth and size of your well.
One of the biggest factors in the cost of installing a new well pump is the type of pump.
Replacing a well pump may be more affordable than buying a new one out-right due to the fact that some well pumps can be upgraded without being fully replaced. A well pump replacement will average from $250 to $5,000 with most homeowners reporting an estimated cost of $1,750.
There are a number of factors that will affect the cost of either installing a new well pump or replacing an existing one. Well size is one of the biggest factors, but also important to consider are the type of pump, the depth of the well and whether you have pressure tank issues in an existing system.
The biggest factor affecting the cost of a well pump installation or replacement is the size and depth of the well. Pumps installed in shallow wells require less work to install and can use more affordable “shallow” pumps, which are best suited for wells less than 25 feet deep. Deep pumps, which are more expensive to install and a costlier purchase, are necessary for wells with depths up to 150 feet.
There are a number of different types of well pumps which range in price, installation cost and effectiveness.
Jet pumps are an older style of well pump which deliver less volume and pressure when compared to more modern submersible pumps. Jet pumps are susceptible to “loss of prime” problems, meaning that the spinning impeller inside of the pump (which must be inside water to develop enough lift to move) becomes air-bound. Modern submersible pumps do not have this issue as they are self-priming and submerged by default.
Submersible pumps are a modern replacement of jet pumps and are significantly more expensive. They are commonly made of cast iron, stainless steel and sometimes thermoplastic. These pumps are built to be completely sealed, which saves homeowners significantly on repairs and utility costs. While the upfront investment may be expensive, these pumps can save time and money in the long run. They also create pressure faster than jet pumps and are generally quieter and more energy-efficient.
Constant-pressure well pumps are some of the most expensive pump options available. That’s because they use a variable frequency drive system, called a VFD, to ensure a constant, even rate of water pressure across your whole house, regardless of how many faucets, toilets and showers are running simultaneously. This ingenious system is complex and prone to high repair costs, but will guarantee consistent, even water pressure.
Windmill water pumps can have a high upfront cost, but are an excellent choice for off-grid living or in areas with frequent electricity outages. These can be expensive to install unless you already have a tower in place. Tower installation alone can cost between $10,000 and $20,000, not to mention the cost of the windmill and its associated pump.
Another excellent option for off-the-grid living, solar pumps take advantage of the power of the sun to power submersible or jet pumps. Pairing solar power with a high-end submersible model can be a great bet unless you live in an area with regular inclement weather, which makes solar-driven utility less efficient.
For true off-the-grid living, nothing beats a classic hand pump. While you may tire yourself out just pumping enough water for one shower, you will never lose access to your well due to weather or utility issues. Hand pumps are also one of the cheapest options available.
Unless you live in a hilly area and can build your water storage tank above your home, most wells will pump water to a pressurized storage tank. If you are having pressure issues with your water, it may not be the pump at all, but could be a problem with your water storage tank. Replacing this tank can cost anywhere from $750 to $4,000 depending on the capacity and type of pressurized tank. Advertisement THIS IS AN ADVERTISEMENT AND NOT EDITORIAL CONTENT. Please note that we do receive compensation for any products you buy or sign up to via this advertisement, and that compensation impacts the ranking and placement of any offers listed herein. We do not present information about every offer available. The information and savings numbers depicted above are for demonstration purposes only, and your results may vary. Compare Quotes From Top-rated Local Plumbers Free, No-commitment Estimates Find A Plumber
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Deciding between repairing and replacing a well pump hinges on several factors, including the age of the pump, the nature of the failure and the cost implications of both options.
Minor issues, such as a faulty pressure switch or a clogged filter, might only require simple repairs to restore functionality and extend the pump’s life. However, repeated malfunctions, significant drops in performance or a pump nearing the end of its expected lifespan might warrant a full replacement. A professional assessment can provide insight into the root cause of the problem and help determine the most cost-effective and efficient path forward.
In some cases, upgrading to a more modern and efficient pump, even if the existing one could be repaired, might offer long-term savings and improved performance. Advances in technology mean newer pumps often operate more quietly, use less energy and provide more consistent water pressure compared to older models. Weighing the immediate cost against potential energy savings, reliability and peace of mind can make replacement a more appealing option, especially if the existing pump has a history of issues or is technologically outdated. Consulting with a well pump professional can help you make an informed decision that balances immediate costs with future benefits.
A few common, obvious signs point to the need for a new well pump. If you experience any of these issues, it might be a good idea to call a pump professional to investigate further. Common signs include:
If the water coming out of your faucets is dirty, this could be a sign that you may be facing an imminent pump failure.
A faulty pump will start losing water pressure or put out inconsistent water pressure. Inconsistent pressure may also point to an issue with a pressurized water storage tank if that is a part of your system.
If you notice air coming out of your faucets, your well pump may be malfunctioning. This is especially true if a jet pump is about to lose prime and become air-bound (unable to pump water at all).
Finally, if you hear loud or odd noises coming from your well pump or your water system in general, it’s a good idea to check in on your well pump.
Most of the above cases will be caused by major failures to either the electric or mechanical parts of a well pump system. Unless you are a serious DIYer, we recommend calling a professional to repair or price out a replacement.
While we usually recommend homeowners pick up a wrench, hammer or screwdriver and take home improvement into their own hands, issues with well pumps are a good time to call a professional. A professional can quickly and safely pinpoint a problem with your well pump and direct you toward the appropriate solution.
Fixing well pump issues often mean fixing electrical malfunctions and plumbing issues. These are two complicated fields on their own, so unless you’re a skilled DIY-er, we urge you to call a professional. If the pump needs to be removed, most well pump professionals will have a derrick truck or puller machine to safely extract the pump.
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Cutting down on well pump expenses doesn’t mean you have to compromise on quality or efficiency. Here are some strategies to keep costs in check:
By being proactive and making informed choices, you can ensure a reliable water supply while keeping well pump costs manageable.
A well pump’s average lifespan is eight to 15 years depending on maintenance and the type of pump. If you are facing serious mechanical issues with your existing well pump, it may make more financial sense to buy a new well pump, rather than spending significant cash on repairs.
With proper maintenance, a well pump should last around 15 years. The pump’s lifespan will be shortened if it is not maintained well or suffers damage.
Several signs point to a well pump failure, including dirty water, loud noises, inconsistent pressure, air in your faucets and unexplained increases in your electricity bills.
Most residential wells are 25 feet deep or less, so a shallow-well jet pump is often an affordable and sufficient option. Deeper wells may require a submersible pump, which is more expensive but a more efficient and effective design. Well pumps can also be powered by solar, windmills and by hand for off-the-grid options.
Chauncey grew up on a farm in rural northern California. At 18 he ran away and saw the world with a backpack and a credit card, discovering that the true value of any point or mile is the experience it facilitates. He remains most at home on a tractor, but has learned that opportunity is where he finds it and discomfort is more interesting than complacency.
centrifugal water pump Ashlyn has been a dedicated content writer for 6 years, with the last 2 years focused on creating home improvement content for Forbes Home. Specializing in areas such as home improvement, moving services, home warranties and home security. Ashlyn combines her deep knowledge and practical expertise to provide valuable insights and advice. Her dedication to enhancing homeowners' understanding and skills in managing their properties has been the cornerstone of her writing career.