The average cost to replace a well pump is $1,600. Typically, costs fall between $400 and $4,000, depending on the type and size of the well pump required, the well depth, and the pump replacement method.
Well pumps are an essential component in all drinking water wells. If you’re on the market for a well pump replacement or you need to buy a well pump for a new well system, you’ll find everything you need to know about well pump cost in this guide.
Table of Contents
- 💵 Average Well Pump Replacement Cost
- 🧾 Well Pump Replacement Cost For Different Types of Pump
- 🔩 Well Pump Replacement Cost For Different Parts
- 🗺️ Well Pump Replacement Cost By Region
- 📝 Factors Affecting the Cost of Replacing a Well Pump
- 🆚 Repairing Vs Replacing a Well Pump Costs
- 🧰 DIY Installing a Well Pump Vs Professional Installation Costs
- 📖 How to Maximize Well Water Pump Lifespan
- 🧠 Well Pump Replacement Cost FAQs
💵 Average Well Pump Replacement Cost
A breakdown of costs for replacing a well pump is:
- The pump: $200-$4,000, depending on the type of pump
- Labor: $250-$500, depending on the complexity of the job
- Materials (like pipes and wire): $200-$400, depending on the materials required
🧾 Well Pump Replacement Cost For Different Types of Pump
Some of the most common types of well pump, and their replacement costs, are listed below.
| Well Pump Type | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Submersible Well Pump | $250 – $1,200 |
| Jet Well Pump | $300 – $800 |
| Constant Pressure Pump | $2,000 – $5,00 +$800 – $3,000 (VFD Controller) |
| Solar Well Pump | $2,000 – $4,000 |
| Hand Well Pump | $150+ |
| Windmill Pumps | $4,000 – $20,000 +$2,000– $5,000 (professional installation) |
Submersible Well Pumps
Submersible well pumps are commonly found in deep wells. These pumps are submerged under the water in the aquifer.
There are two types of submersible pumps:
- Regular-pressure submersible pumps, known as “40/60 pumps”, only kick in when the water pressure in the tank drops below 40 PSI. Once the tank’s water pressure reaches 60 PSI, the pump shuts off.
- Constant-pressure submersible pumps constantly monitor the water pressure in the storage tank and tailor the pump speed to their readings.
Submersible pumps can be installed in wells of different depths.
The average cost of deep well submersible pumps is $250 to $1,200.
For a shallow well that doesn’t require much pump power to deliver water to the surface, a pump should cost between 2,500.
Deep wells that need a lot of pump power to draw water will cost roughly between $700 and $1,200 for a new pump.
If you need to replace a submersible jet pump, remember that you will also need to replace the pipework for this type of pump. This typically costs $500-$2,500, depending on the length of pipe required.
Jet Well Pumps
Jet pumps are used in both shallow and deep wells.
Shallow well jet pumps, or above-ground jet pumps, are for wells with a depth of 25 feet or less and have an average cost of $300, or a range of $100 to $500. A shallow well jet pump is budget-friendly upfront but tends to have less durable components and doesn’t last as long as other well pumps.
A deep well jet pump is designed for wells between 90 and 150 feet deep. Deep well pumps are more powerful and made from more durable materials, and this comes at a cost – expect to pay between $650 and $800 for a deep well jet pump.
Your well contractor may suggest replacing your jet pump with a submersible pump, especially if you have a deep well. While convertible jet pumps will stop working if they lose their prime, a deep well submersible pump is self-priming, meaning that it’s always full of liquid and ready to kick into action at any time.
Pumps that require priming are less efficient than self-priming pumps because they use power to prime themselves, which puts strain on the components.
Constant Pressure Pumps
A constant pressure pump runs continuously if there’s a minimum 1 GPM water supply demand. This type of pump uses a variable frequency device (VFD) as a pump controller, which requires a stable electricity supply.
The average cost of a constant pressure well pump is $2,000 to $5,000. The VFD controller costs between $800 and $3,000.
Solar Well Pumps
Solar pumps are well pumps that are powered by the sun’s energy. They’re a cost-effective, sustainable well pump option because they don’t need to be powered by your local electricity supply – but they’re more expensive upfront because of this.
A basic solar well pump starts at $2,000, with the price extending to $4,000 for a high-end model.
If you don’t want to rely on mainstream utilities, or you want to reduce your carbon footprint or cut down on your energy costs, a solar well pump is worth considering.
Hand Well Pumps
Hand well pumps need to be manually pumped to draw water up to the surface. They’re a good option for homes that frequently lose power, or homes in regions with no power.
Due to the manual labor required to operate a hand well pump, and the lack of electronic components in the device, this type of well pump is affordable, with prices starting at $150.
Windmill Pumps
Windmill pumps are a last-resort well pump option to consider, in regions where a consistent electricity supply isn’t guaranteed and a solar pump wouldn’t provide enough power.
A windmill pump requires a lot of extra materials. Depending on the size of the windmill and the materials and labor required, the average cost of this type of well pump is $4,000 to $20,000.
Professional installation of a windmill pump typically costs $2,000 to $5,000 for two days of work, and the average sub tower costs $9,000.
🔩 Well Pump Replacement Cost For Different Parts
Various other components may also need to be replaced when you replace a well pump. These include:
| Well Pump Component | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Pressure Tank | 800 – $4,000 |
| Pressure Switch | $50 – $150 |
| Pump Motor | $150 – $1,350 |
| Booster Pump | $250 – $2,000 |
Pressure Tank
If your pump and your pressure tank are causing combined issues in your well system, you may need to replace both components at the same time. The cost of a new pressure tank is about $800 to $4,000, depending on the size of the tank. You may also need to replace the pressure switch, which costs $50-$150.
Replacing both the pump and the pressure tank can often be more cost-effective than replacing just the pump, so consider this option if your pressure tank is old and nearing the end of its lifespan.
To check whether your pressure tank is bad, switch on a faucet in your home and listen for the sound of the pump kicking on. If you hear this sound, it’s likely that the well pressure tank isn’t storing water as it should.
Pump Motor
Sediment in your well water system will eventually wear down the bearings and moving parts in your pump, causing the motors to fail. Replacing the motor will usually solve the issue instantly. However, a failed motor in an older well water pump may cause another component to fail, and the cost to replace the entire pump will probably be cheaper than replacing two separate components.
The average cost of replacing a well pump’s motor is $150 to $1,350.
Single-phase motors are the cheapest option, costing $200 to $450. Three-phase motors, with almost double the voltage, are the most expensive, costing $300 to $1,900.
Commonly, replacing the motor is only an option if you have an expensive submersible pump. Otherwise, you may have to replace the entire pump.
Booster Pump
Low water pressure is a common issue in well systems. A booster pump offers an easy way to provide constant pressure to your home’s water supply, ensuring that your faucets and showerheads deliver a steady supply of water.
Well pressure booster pumps cost between $250 and $2,000, or $750 on average. The cost depends on the brand, features, and size of the booster pump, as well as the labor cost (usually $200 to $350).
🗺️ Well Pump Replacement Cost By Region
Different regions have different well pump replacement costs. The average costs of replacing a pump around the US, including the materials and labor costs, are:
| Region | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| New York | $1,800-$2,100 |
| Chicago | $1,300-$1,550 |
| Portland, OR | $5,900-$5,250 |
| Phoenix | $1,500-$1,700 |
| Orlando, FL | $2,500-$2,650 |
| Portland, ME | $1,800-$2,100 |
| Dallas | $2,000-$2,200 |
| Denver | $1,900-$2,150 |
| Manhattan, KS | $900-$1,100 |
| Sacramento, CA | $1,600-$1,750 |
| Raleigh, NC | $1,150-$1,300 |
To learn more about the cost to replace a well pump in your area, contact several well contractors and ask for their pump prices. Compare the quotes you receive to determine an average.
📝 Factors Affecting the Cost of Replacing a Well Pump
The most common factors affecting well pump replacement cost are listed below.
Well Size and Depth
The size and depth of your well is the biggest factor affecting the cost of your pump replacement.
Shallow well pumps are significantly cheaper than deep pumps. The shallower and narrower the well, the cheaper the well pump. Why? Because fewer materials and less effort are required to install shallow well pumps.
Pump Type
The type of pump is another big cost variable when it comes to replacing a well pump.
Submersible pumps cost more money than jet pumps due to their efficient performance and durable design. High-capacity solar pumps are the most expensive pump type, while shallow well pumps and hand pumps are the cheapest pumps available.
Pipework Required
Submersible pumps require a lot of pipework, so if you’re replacing a jet pump with a submersible pump, you’ll need to factor in the cost of new or replacement pipes.
Even a standard well pump replacement may require repairs or replacements to your pipework. The length of pipe required affects the material and labor costs.
Local Cost of Living
Different regions have different costs of living, and different prices for local services.
If you live in a region with a high cost of living, you’ll likely have to spend $100-$500 more on your well pump replacement than homeowners in regions with a low cost of living.
Additionally, if you live in a region with lots of local competition, services may be more competitively priced than in regions with only one or two skilled pump installers.
Wiring Required
Alongside pipework, wiring is another potential component that will need to be repaired or replaced when your well pump is replaced.
The cost of wiring is incredibly broad, depending on the scope of work required. Speak to your local electrician to get an accurate understanding of the extra costs required for new wiring.
🆚 Repairing Vs Replacing a Well Pump Costs
In some cases, you might not need to completely remove and replace a faulty well pump. Your local well contractor can inspect the pump and determine whether it’s more cost-effective for you to repair the pump, or whether you should make a short-term repair while you save to replace the pump.
The average cost of repairing a well pump is $850.
If your well pump is too old or worn to repair, your well contractor will recommend replacing it instead. You don’t want to end up spending so much money on pump repairs that you may as well have bought a replacement in the first place.
🧰 DIY Installing a Well Pump Vs Professional Installation Costs
If you’re considering installing your own well pump to save money, it’s important to know that DIY installation isn’t always the cheapest option.
Installing a well pump yourself saves on professional labor costs, but you may spend more money than that on hiring the equipment you need to replace the pump professionally.
If you hire a professional to install your well pump, you’ll need to factor in the cost of labor. Most well contractors charge between $250 and $500 for labor alone.
However, well contractors can often source materials at a cheaper cost than you could, and they already have the equipment and tools required for the job, so there’s no expensive hiring fee.
Plus, hiring a pro is much safer than attempting to DIY install a well pump. If you install the pump wrong, you may damage other components in your well or damage the pump. In the worst case scenario, you’ll need to buy a new pump and hire a contractor to install it properly for you – and potentially fix any of the damage you’ve done in your initial installation attempt.
Remember, your well’s pump supplies all the water for your household. The risk of rendering the pump useless by something as simple as improper priming often isn’t worth it.
If you decide to replace a well pump yourself, at least hire a contractor to service your well and determine that the pump is the problem, not something else.
📖 How to Maximize Well Water Pump Lifespan
Once you’ve replaced your well water pump, you probably don’t want to think about replacing it again for at least another decade. Well pumps can easily last this long if you know how to look after them.
Here’s how to maximize the lifespan of a well pump:
- Choose a durable pump: If you’re yet to buy a pump for your well, opt for a submersible pump, which is more durable than a convertible jet pump.
- Install a sediment filter: Protect the pump from sediment damage by installing a sediment filter upstream of the pump‘. Replace the filter every 6-12 months.
- Maintain the pressure tank: The pressure tank needs to be in proper working order to prevent the pump from constantly cycling on and off. Ensure the pressure tank consistently holds water in a pressurized environment, reducing the frequency of the pump cycles.
- Treat your water: Hot water or acidic water may impact the lifespan of the pump impeller and other components. Discuss options for cooling your water with your well contractor or consider installing pH neutralizing filters for acidic water.
- Get your pump inspected: Hire a professional to inspect your pump once a year. A professional can detect an issue in its early stages and advise you on how to repair the pump to extend its lifespan.
- Install a torque arrestor: A torque arrestor stops the torque from twisting the pump and pipe every time the pump cycles on, preventing damage to the insulation around the wires.
🧠 Well Pump Replacement Cost FAQs
How do I know if my well pump is bad?
Signs that your well pump is bad include:
- Changes to your water pressure
- Significantly higher-than-usual electricity costs
- Spitting faucets
- Unusual noises comin from the pump or water tank
Related: How to diagnose a well water pump making loud noise
How much should it cost to replace a well pump?
It should cost $1,600 on average to replace a well water pump. The price range for replacing a pump, depending on pump type and well depth, is $400 and $4,000. The pump itself costs $200-$4,000, while labor costs $250-$500 and materials cost $200-$400.
How long does well pump last?
With frequent servicing, a well-built well pump lasts up to 15 years. Factors affecting the lifespan of a well pump include pump quality, water usage, and frequency of service. Within this period, if you experience problems with your well pump, a contractor may be able to repair the pump rather than replace it.
How often should you service a well pump?
You should get your well pump serviced once a year, during your annual well inspection. If you think your pump is failing, don’t wait until your annual service – contact your local contractor and book an inspection ASAP.
How much is a pump for a deep well?
The average cost of a deep well water pump is about $250 to $1,000. Submersible pumps for deep wells cost about $250 to $1,200, while jet pumps cost $650 to $800. A submersible well pump is the most expensive option, but submersible pumps are more durable than jet pumps.
What is the average cost of a well pump?
The average cost of a well pump is $1,600. Average pump prices are determined by material and labor costs, the cost of living in your region, and whether any additional supplies are required, like replacement piping or wiring.
Can I install my own well pump?
You can install your own well water pump, but it isn’t recommended. The average well pump replacement costs are often lower than the costs involved in DIY replacing a well pump, including hiring tools and equipment for the job, and sourcing materials without a contractor’s discount. Plus, there’s a risk of doing something wrong if you install a well pump yourself, which could incur costly repairs.
How much is a well pump motor?
A well pump motor costs about $150 to $1,350. Single-phase motors cost $200 to $450, while three-phase motors cost $300 to $1,900. In some cases, you may be able to repair a pump’s motor without having to replace the entire thing. If you have a submersible well pump, replacing the motor is easy, but for other types of pumps, a broken motor may require the entire pump to be replaced.
How much does it cost to pull a well pump out?
The cost to pull out an old well pump is $200-$500, depending on the depth of the pump and the labor required. Pulling a submersible well pump out of a deep well is significantly more expensive than disengaging an above-ground pump. Installing a replacement pump costs extra on top of the cost of removing an old pump.
How much is a new well pump and pressure tank?
A new pump and pressurized storage tank cost $400 to $4,500. The cost of the pump, labor and materials is $1,600 on average, and the cost of a well pressure tank is $200 to $450.
Does my homeowners insurance cover my well’s pump?
Most homeowners insurance policies will only cover well pumps if they become damaged by natural occurrences, such as a windstorm, fire, or lightning. Neglect, wear and tear, and even earthquakes aren’t covered by standard homeowners insurance.
