Well Pump Replacement Cost : r/homeowners

Hi all,

I live in Southwest Colorado with an 80 foot well. After a recent drop in water pressure, I've come to learn that our well pump needs to be replaced. The guy who came out said it was not pulling enough amps. He quoted $4K to replace and install it. From my research, the average cost to replace a well pump is between $900-$2700. He said the sources probably weren't accounting for installation or inflation.

Admittedly, my research is from the first few results of a Google search. The articles seem recent and appear to account for installation. I also understand it depends on well depth. I know Google isn't always a great gauge, but I just want to make sure that we're doing our due diligence before pulling the trigger on anything. We already had to replace our furnace in January, so this additional surprise is hitting us hard.

We're getting another estimate tomorrow but in the meantime, wanted to see if anyone familiar with this stuff has a good idea on cost.

Appreciate anyone's insight!

Update to add: I will also note that the drop in pressure occurred directly after we replaced the filter on the water softener. To do that, we turned off the water to the softener and opened a faucet to relieve the pressure. After this, we noticed significant loss in pressure. The pressure returns for a short time after resetting the breaker to the well pump. The guy who came out said that the timing is a coincidence and the pump happened to go bad at the same time we did the filter change.

A well pump is a cost-effective way to get water to your home because there are no monthly utility fees. But like any mechanical device, it eventually wears out and breaks down. When it does, you can expect to spend between $975 and $2,575, or a national average of $1,775, to replace your well pump.

In this pricing guide, we’ll cover:

Average Costs of Well Pump Replacement in 2023

National Average Cost$1,775Typical Price Range$975 – $2,575Extreme Low-End Cost$200Extreme High-End Cost$5,000

Most well pump replacement projects fall between $975 and $2,575, but many factors can add additional costs. A small hand pump can cost as little as $200, while a high-end constant-pressure well pump could set you back as much as $5,000.

Well Pump Replacement Cost Estimator By Type

The cost of the project depends on the type of well pump used in your replacement. Inexpensive hand pumps cost between $160 and $1,450 for professional installation. On the other hand, a high-end solar-powered well pump will set you back between $1,785 and $4,425.

Take a look at the average cost of common well pumps: 

TypeAverage Cost*includes laborHand Well Pump$160 – $1,450Submersible Well Pump$275 – $1,550Shallow Jet Well Pump$225 – $800Deep Jet Well Pump$435 – $1,100Constant-Pressure Well Pump$2,000 – $5,000Solar Well Pump$1,785 – $4,425Windmill Pump$5,000 – $21,500

Let’s break down the most common well pump types:

• Hand Well Pump
• Submersible Well Pump
• Jet Well Pump
• Constant-Pressure Well Pump
• Solar Well Pump
• Windmill Pump

Hand Well Pump

Hand pumps are commonly made from stainless steel, cast iron, or plastic. These manually operated pumps come in models designed for shallow and deep wells and cost $160 to $1,450. Hand pumps are cost-effective and work during power outages, meaning you always have access to fresh water. 

Submersible Well Pump

Submersible well pumps cost between $275 to $1,550, with higher-priced models having more horsepower. It is important to note that submersible pumps require more piping than other types, increasing overall installation costs. These pumps are available in cast iron and stainless steel and are quieter and more reliable than other pump types. 

Jet Well Pump

Jet well pumps are less powerful than submersible pumps and come at a lower price point, with models available for shallow and deep wells. You can expect to spend between $225 to $1,110 for a jet pump installation. 

Typically, these pumps are less reliable than self-priming submersible pumps and prone to motor breakdowns. In most cases, replacing the motor is as costly as purchasing a new jet pump.

Shallow Well Jet Pump

Shallow well pumps work for wells 25 feet deep or less. These pumps cost between $225 to $800 and typically feature low-powered motors and less expensive materials.

Deep Well Jet Pump

Deep well pumps deliver water from wells as deep as 150 feet and cost between $435 to $1,100. Horsepower typically ranges from 0.5 to two horsepower, and these pumps are typically made from stainless steel, cast iron, thermoplastic, or carbon ceramic. 

Constant-Pressure Well Pump

Constant-pressure pumps are considered a high-end option, costing between $2,000 to $5,000. These pumps feature a variable frequency drive system to control water pressure, ensuring even pressure across your home.

Solar Well Pump

Solar pumps are becoming more popular. They use a combination of the sun’s rays and traditional electricity for power. They feature plastic and stainless steel designs ranging from $1,785 to $4,425. These high-end pumps work with both shallow and deep wells and save money on your electricity bills. 

Windmill Pump

Windmill water pumps may sound like something straight out of a fairytale, but these expensive well pumps are ideal for off-grid homes and work as a backup for solar systems. You can expect to spend between $5,000 to $21,500 for windmill installation, depending on your needs. 

Other Factors That Affect Cost

A new well pump is part of your complete well system, and there are many factors affecting your total cost, including well size, pipework, wiring, labor rates, and more.

Well Size

The depth of your well is an essential factor in the cost because it affects the size and horsepower of the pump you need to draw water reliably. Deeper wells require more labor and larger pumps, increasing overall costs for your replacement project. It is important to note that any well over 25 feet is considered a deep-water well. 

Piping

There’s no way around it. Well systems require pipework. While some pump replacements will not require additional pipework, many projects require adding or replacing pipes, especially if you are upgrading to a different type of well pump. Pipe length and the experience of your plumber affect your overall costs. 

Wiring

Unless you are installing a hand pump, your project will require an electrician to complete the wiring portion of your project. Electrician rates vary widely based on your location, and your pump expert will work with a local professional in your area. 

Pressure Tank Replacement

Your pressure tank works with your well pump to store the water pumped from your well for home use. Many times, replacing your well pump is not enough, and the problem stems from your pressure tank. Pressure tank replacement is costly, and you can expect to spend between $800 to $3,900 for installation. 

Labor Cost to Replace a Well Pump

Labor makes up a sizable portion of your total project cost. Pump professionals typically charge per hour, with well pump replacement costs ranging from $45 to $150 per hour, for an average project total of $250 to $700. 

Labor rates depend on your location, the experience of the pump professional, the complexity of your project, and additional pipework or wiring needed to complete your project.

Related Services 

Sometimes, pump professionals can repair an old well pump, saving you a lot of upfront costs. Consider these related services to help increase the lifespan of your water well pump and water tank. 

Well Pump Repairs

So here’s some good news: If your pump quits working, you may not need an entirely new one. Your pump works hard to deliver fresh well water to your storage tank daily, so the wear and tear on the pump can necessitate repairs. Often, repair costs are lower than a complete replacement, costing between $250 to $1,100, depending on the problem. 

Take a look at some of the most common pump problems and their average costs:

ProblemAverage Repair Cost*includes laborPump Motor$175 – $1,400Pressure Switch$50 – $150Booster Pump$250 – $2,000

Well Pump Inspection

Professionals recommend having your well system inspected once per year, or more if you notice any problems with your water supply. A well inspection costs between $285 to $515, and it is always best to complete any repairs as soon as possible.

Cost of Well Pump Replacement By Location

Well pump replacement costs vary depending on location, cost of living, and the materials and complexity of your pump system. There is no way to know exactly what your replacement will cost without receiving free quotes from well professionals in your area.  

Signs You Need to Replace Your Well Pump

Your well system comprises your well water supply, well pump, and pressure tank. It’s important to have a professional inspect your system annually. Watch for these signs that it’s time to have your well system inspected:

• Low or no water flow
• Inconsistent or low water pressure
• Spitting faucets caused by air in your water lines
• Dirty water from sediment
• Loud knocking or clicking noises coming from your pump or tank
• High water or electricity bills
• Constantly running pump

FAQ

How long does a well pump last?

Well pumps typically last 8 to 15 years. The largest factor affecting the lifespan of your well pump is its duty cycle. The more stress you put on your pump because of high water demands, the shorter your pump’s lifespan. 

Can I DIY replace my well pump?

No. Well pump replacement is best left to the professionals. It is a complex process that can lead to voided warranties if improperly completed.

Will my insurance cover my well pump?

It depends on your personal homeowner’s insurance policy. Typically, your homeowner’s insurance covers damage caused by natural disasters or vandalism. Most likely, your policy does not cover wear and tear or subsequent repair costs.

Final Thoughts 

Wells are cost-effective water delivery systems for many homeowners, especially those looking to go green or live off-grid. Your well pump works hard every day to bring you fresh water. When it wears out, you can expect to spend between $975 to $2,575, or a national average of $1,775, to replace your well pump. If you are noticing repair signs or your pump has stopped working, LawnStarter will connect you with a local well expert in your area so you can learn about your options.

LawnStarter may get a referral fee for matching you with contractors in your area.

Main Photo Credit: Rs1421 / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0

Kimberly Magerl

Born and raised in Springfield, Illinois, Kimberly Magerl enjoys growing fruits and vegetables in her garden. When she isn't gardening, Kimberly enjoys trying new recipes and cooking with her home-grown herbs. Posts by Kimberly Magerl

Born and raised in Springfield, Illinois, Kimberly Magerl enjoys growing fruits and vegetables in her garden. When she isn't gardening, Kimberly enjoys trying new recipes and cooking with her home-grown herbs.