How to Pull a Well Pump Up?

Pulling a well pump up involves a systematic approach focusing on safety, proper tools, and careful execution. It's a task that, when done correctly, ensures the pump's safe retrieval for maintenance or replacement.

The Essential Steps to Safely Retrieve Your Well Pump

Retrieving a submersible well pump from its casing requires preparation and adherence to a specific sequence of actions to prevent damage to the well, the pump, or personal injury.

1. Safety Preparation is Paramount

Before beginning any work on your well system, prioritize safety. This includes gathering the necessary personal protective equipment (PPE) and ensuring a clear, stable work area.

• Wear Appropriate PPE:
  • Heavy-duty gloves to protect hands from rough surfaces and potential debris.
  • Safety glasses or goggles to shield eyes from water, rust, or other foreign particles.
  • Steel-toed boots to guard against falling equipment.
• Clear the Work Area: Remove any obstacles around the wellhead to ensure ample space for maneuvering the pump and its components.
• Have Assistance: Well pumps can be heavy and cumbersome. It's highly recommended to have at least one other person assist with the pulling process.

2. Cut the Power to the Well Pump

This is a critical safety step to prevent electrical shock. Locate the breaker box that controls the power to your well pump and switch it to the "OFF" position.

• Verify Power is Off: Use a voltage tester to confirm that no power is reaching the wellhead or pump control box.
• Label the Breaker: If possible, label the breaker to prevent accidental re-engagement during the task.

3. Remove the Well Cap

The well cap, also known as the well seal or well cover, protects the well from contaminants. Carefully unfasten and remove it to access the well components.

• Inspect the Cap: Note any wiring or vent pipes attached to the cap to ensure they are reinstalled correctly later.
• Set Aside Safely: Place the cap in a secure location where it won't be damaged or lost.

4. Locate the Pitless Adapter

The pitless adapter is a crucial component that allows the water line to exit the well casing below the frost line, connecting the pump's discharge pipe to the underground water line. It's typically found a few feet below the top of the well casing.

• Identify the Adapter: Look for a T-shaped fitting or a specialized connection point where the pump's drop pipe connects to the horizontal water line leading to your home.
• Understanding its Function: The pitless adapter has a removable part that allows the pump and drop pipe to be pulled vertically, leaving the underground water line intact.

5. Thread the Pump Removal Tool Into the Pitless Adapter

A specialized well pump retrieval tool is essential for this step. This tool securely connects to the pitless adapter, allowing you to lift the pump assembly.

• Attach the Tool: Carefully lower the tool into the well casing and align it with the internal threads or connection point of the pitless adapter.
• Secure Connection: Ensure the tool is firmly threaded or locked into place. This connection bears the entire weight of the pump, pipe, and water column.

6. Attach the Safety Rope to the Pipe

Many submersible well pumps are equipped with a safety rope or cable alongside the electrical wiring and water pipe. If present, secure this rope to the well casing or a sturdy anchor point.

• Purpose of the Rope: This rope acts as a crucial failsafe, preventing the pump from dropping back down the well if the primary pipe or the removal tool connection fails.
• If No Rope: While the reference implies a safety rope is present, if your system doesn't have one, consider attaching a temporary robust rope or cable to the well pipe as an additional safety measure before lifting.

7. Pull the Well Pump

With the removal tool securely attached and safety measures in place, you can now begin to pull the pump up. This is often the most physically demanding part of the process.

• Steady and Consistent Pull: Apply a slow, steady, and upward force. Avoid jerky movements, which can cause components to bind or break.
• Manage Weight: The pump, pipe, and the water inside them can be very heavy. Use a pipe wrench or specialized pipe pliers to grip the well pipe firmly as it comes up, preventing it from slipping back down.
• Coil as You Go: As the pipe emerges from the well, carefully coil the pipe and electrical wire neatly on the ground to prevent tangling or kinking.
• Draining Water: Be prepared for water to drain from the pipe as it is pulled up.

8. Clean the Well Pump

Once the well pump is fully out of the well casing, it's a good practice to clean it. This allows for a thorough inspection and prepares it for any necessary repairs or reinstallation.

• Rinse Off Debris: Use a hose to rinse off any mud, sediment, or mineral deposits from the pump and pipe.
• Inspect for Damage: While cleaning, look for signs of wear, corrosion, cracks, or other damage to the pump housing, impellers, motor, and electrical connections. This inspection helps determine if repairs are feasible or if a replacement is needed.

By following these precise steps, you can effectively and safely pull a well pump up for servicing or replacement.