Home Garden

DIY Removal and Cleaning of a Well Pump

If you live in a city, water is generally distributed to your home via a series of underground pipes which are linked to an aqueduct. If you live in the country, however, you likely get your water from a well on your property. The water is moved from the well to your home via a submersible water pump. If the water pressure in your home is weak, it could be the result of a dirty pump.

Things You'll Need

  • Socket wrench
  • Flat-head screwdriver
  • Tee-handle pump removal tool
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Instructions

    • 1

      Clear an 8-inch diameter around the well casing. Remove all plants and obstructions in this area.

    • 2

      Open your fuse box and flip the breaker to where the well connects to the "Off" position. If you don't know the exact breaker, you can flip the main power breaker to the "Off" position.

    • 3

      Remove the bolts on top of the well cap with a socket wrench.

    • 4

      Insert the tip of your screwdriver underneath the well cap and pry it up to remove it.

    • 5

      Lower the tee-handle removal tool into the well casing until the bottom of the tool touches the pitless adapter of the pump.

    • 6

      Turn the removal tool clockwise and it will lock onto the top of the adapter.

    • 7

      Lift the adapter out of the casing using the removal tool. You should have someone to help you pull on the tool.

    • 8

      Lift the adapter out of the casing and the pump will be beneath it.

    • 9

      Check the valves of the pump. Clean them out with a water hose or use a wire brush to clean out any stubborn grime and gunk in the pump.

    • 10

      Lower the pump into the well and release it by turning the removal tool clockwise.

    • 11

      Replace the well cover and bolts.