How Much Does It Cost to Install or Replace a Well Pump?

Average Well Pump Prices by Type

The average price of a new well pump falls between $1,330 and $5,300, including installation and depending on the size and type of pump. Submersible pumps range between $400 and $2,000 while jet pumps cost $400 to $1,200. Solar units will run you at least $1,500. Hand pumps start at only $150.

Jet Pump

Jet pumps are generally considered an older style of well pump, and deliver less volume and pressure compared to submersible pumps. Sometimes jet pumps stop working due to a loss of prime, while submersible pumps are always self-priming. Motor replacement costs will vary based on the size of your pump. In many cases, motor repairs cost as much as installing a new pump.

Shallow Jet

Expect to pay $300 to $900 for shallow well pumps (25-feet or less) with smaller motors and cheaper materials like thermoplastic. 

Deep Jet

Deep-well motors (up to 150 feet) with higher quality materials like cast iron will have a rough cost of between $400 to $1,200. These jet pumps come in cast iron, stainless steel, carbon ceramic and thermoplastic. Most jet pump motors range from between one-half and two horsepower.

Submersible Well Pump

Submersible pumps cost between $400 to $2,000. With lower horsepower, expect to pay an average $700 or between $400 and $1,000. More powerful units range from $700 to $2,000. Many submersible pumps also require the installation of additional piping, which will increase overall installation costs. Adding extra piping can cost an additional $250 to $2,500, depending on the scope of work.

Submersible pumps come in cast iron and stainless steel and range from three-quarters to five horsepower. Submersible pumps have the same criteria in terms of cost to replace as jet pumps, however, similar sizes of submersible pumps are still typically more expensive than jet pumps. Despite the higher price, submersible pumps are considered more reliable than jet pumps and are less noisy. The cost of installing submersible pumps will vary based on the size of the well, material and motor size.

Solar Powered Well Pump

Solar pumps cost between $1,500 and $6,500 and come in both plastic and stainless-steel housing. Stainless models will command a higher price, but have a longer lifespan. Basic pump configurations will cost around $2,000 and pump water from both shallow and deep wells. High-end models will pump from a variety of well depths at a higher gallon-per-minute rate. 

Hand Pump

Hand well pumps cost between $150 and $2,000. They come in plastic, cast iron and stainless steel models. Plastic, shallow pumps are affordable, and start at around $150. Larger, stainless deep well pumps can cost more, depending on the design and size of the well. Hand pumps can be physically tiring, but will function regardless of weather or utility availability, making them a good backup option. 

Windmill Water Pump

Windmill water pumps cost between $4,200 and $19,600. But, if not already in place, you'd also have to pay for a mini, or stub tower, at around $10,000 or a cross brace tower at $13,000. The installation itself is also costly, at between $2,000 and $5,000. Plus water storage costs at $400 to $1,500. 

Windmill water pumps are a great off-grid or dual choice in areas with frequent electricity outages or where a homeowner doesn't want to be connected to the grid, but where there isn't enough solar power to meet the demands of the household and the pump. 

Constant-Pressure Pump

Constant-pressure well pumps cost $2,000 to $5,000, all in. Constant-pressure pumps use a variable frequency drive system, or VFD, to ensure constant, even water pressure across your whole house, even if every faucet is in use, the shower's running, and someone flushes the toilet simultaneously. 

Signs You Need a New Well Pump

Common signs you need a new well pump include: 

• Dirty water

• Loud noises

• Inconsistent pressure

• Air in your faucets 

• Unexplained increases in water bills

In many cases, pump problems are related to electrical or mechanical failures. It's a good idea to call a pro if you're experiencing any of these issues. A pump professional will be able to recognize the problem and provide an appropriate solution.

• When to expect a repair: Minor hardware damage, small engine issues and negligible well problems are usually fixed with a quick pump repair. Water pump repair costs most homeowners between $300 and $1,300.

• When to expect a replacement: Major mechanical, engine or well problems can result in a total pump replacement.

Well Pump Replacement Cost Factors

Well pump replacement costs can range anywhere from $200 to an upward of $5,000, with most homeowners reporting a cost between $923 and $2,486 to have their pumps replaced.

Your replacement cost will vary based on several factors.

Well Size

The size and depth of your well will play a role in determining your replacement costs. Installing pumps in shallow wells requires less work than wider, deeper locations. Shallow pumps, which are more affordable, are best suited for wells less than 25 feet deep. Deep pumps are necessary for wells up to 150 feet in depth. Purchasing and installing a deep pump will cost more.

Pump Type

The type of pump you install well affects the overall price. Construction of jet pumps makes them easier to remove and install than submersible options.

Upgrading Jet Pumps

Homeowners with malfunctioning jet pumps may decide to switch to a more modern submersible pump instead of opting for a replacement. Switching from an older jet pump to a submersed model will benefit your home in more ways than one. The benefits of upgrading to a submersible pump include:

Maintenance: Submersible pumps are self-priming, which lessens upkeep and wear and tear on the unit.

Instant pressure: Submersible pumps create pressure 30% faster than jet pumps because they're not working against gravity.

Energy efficiency: The design of submersible pumps saves energy and is quieter than jet alternatives. Noise can be important if your well is located near your house.

Costs: Submersible pumps are completely sealed, which saves on repairs and utility costs. Even though submersible pumps are more expensive upfront, they typically save water pump costs in the long run through both repair and energy.

Off-the-Grid Pumps

Installing solar or hand designs is also an option. Here's a look at some of the advantages of off-the-grid pumps.

• Energy efficiency: Hand and solar pumps don't require utilities to function, making them extremely energy efficient.

• Minimal installation: In most cases, hand and solar units don't require major installations like jet and submersed pumps.

Hand and solar pumps are great for outbuildings and other non-essential water sources, but they can make in-home water usage difficult. Be sure to gauge your home's water consumption before installing an off-the-grid pump.

Replacement Method

Hiring a professional will cost more than do-it-yourself methods. Unless you have experience replacing and installing a well pump, it's best to hire a local pro. DIY fixes can result in extremely expensive pump repairs.

Pressure Tank Issues

Most wells deliver water to a pressurized storage tank. Problems with your pump or well can stem from a problematic tank. Replacing your storage tank can cost between$800 and $3,800.

Why Hire a Pro 

Hiring a well pump installation pro is important for a number of reasons. A professional will pinpoint the problem and provide the appropriate solution. Hiring a professional is also a good idea if you don't know the depth of your well or what kind of pump you already have.

Motor ignition and shut-off issues and a lack of water pressure are common pump problems. Sometimes these problems can come from electrical malfunctions, which could require help from the power company if voltage is too low. Generally, well pump problems are a combination of electrical and water issues, which can be dangerous if you don't have the necessary experience.

Occasionally, the pump and the piping will need to be extracted from the well. This is most common with submersible pumps. Professionals usually use a derrick truck or puller machine to extract the pump.

FAQs

How do I know if my well pump is broken?

Dirty water, loud noises, inconsistent pressure, air in your faucets, and unexplained increases in water bills are common signs your well pump may be broken. 

How long does a well pump last?

A well pump is likely to last around 15 years with proper maintenance. If a pump is not well maintained or experiences damage, it will likely last less than that. 

How far can a well pump pump water?

It depends on the type of pump. A single line shallow pump can pump water 25 feet deep and then into your home. A 3/4 HP submersible pump can draw water from a depth of up to 250 feet. A deep well jet pump can pump water from up to 400 feet below ground.

Is a well pump covered by insurance?

While it’s important to check your individual homeowners policy, well pumps in need of replacement due to damage from a storm or fire are usually covered by insurance. The costs associated with well pumps that are in need of replacement after reaching their natural lifespan will likely not be covered by homeowners insurance.

How long does it take to replace a well pump?

While the length of repair time will vary depending on the type and depth of your pump, you can usually expect your well pump replacement to take your pro between a half and full day of work.