Views: 0 Author: Site Editor Publish Time: 2025-10-30 Origin: Site
A deep well pump is an excellent solution for accessing a reliable water supply, especially in areas where municipal water isn't available. But before you can enjoy fresh, clean water, you need to properly prime the pump. Priming is the process of creating a vacuum by filling the pump and suction pipe with water, which allows the system to draw water up from the well.
If you've recently installed a new deep well pump or have run into issues with your existing one losing its prime, you might be wondering how to get it running again. It can seem like a complicated task, but with the right tools and a clear set of instructions, it's a manageable job for most homeowners.
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about how to prime a deep well pump. We'll cover the necessary tools, provide a step-by-step process, and answer common questions to help you get your water flowing smoothly.
Before you start the priming process, it's important to gather all the necessary tools and materials. Having everything on hand will make the job quicker and easier.
Here’s a list of what you’ll need:
· Water: You will need a source of water to fill the pump. A few gallons should be enough, so have a bucket or a garden hose ready.
· Wrenches: A pipe wrench and an adjustable wrench will be needed to open the priming plug on the pump.
· Funnel: A funnel will make it much easier to pour water into the small priming port without spilling it everywhere.
· Teflon tape (optional): If you notice any leaks around the fittings after priming, you might need Teflon tape to create a better seal.
· Screwdriver: Depending on your pump model, you might need a screwdriver to access certain components.
It’s also a good idea to have the manufacturer's manual for your specific deep well pump. The manual will provide model-specific details and diagrams that can be very helpful.
Priming a deep well pump involves filling the pump casing and the drop pipe with water. This removes the air and creates the necessary suction for the pump to draw water from the well. Follow these five steps carefully to ensure a successful prime.
Safety should always be your top priority. Before you begin any work on your pump, you must completely disconnect it from its power source. Go to your home’s circuit breaker and switch off the breaker that supplies power to the well pump.
To be absolutely certain the power is off, you can use a voltage tester on the pump's electrical terminals. Attempting to work on the pump while it's connected to electricity is extremely dangerous and can result in serious injury.
Next, you need to find the priming plug on your pump. This is usually a small, square or hexagonal plug located on the top of the pump casing, near the discharge pipe. It might be labeled "prime" or be the highest plug on the pump body. If you’re unsure, consult your pump’s user manual.
Once you’ve located the plug, use your wrench to loosen and remove it. You may need to apply a bit of force if it hasn’t been opened in a while. Set the plug aside in a safe place where you won't lose it.
With the priming plug removed, you can now start filling the pump with water. Place your funnel into the priming port and slowly pour water into the pump. The goal is to fill both the pump casing and the entire drop pipe that goes down into the well.
This step can take some time, especially for a very deep well. Be patient and continue adding water until it completely fills the priming port and doesn't seem to be dropping anymore. You want to make sure all the air is forced out of the system. You might hear gurgling sounds as the water displaces the air in the pipe; this is a good sign.
Once the pump and pipe are full of water, it's time to seal the system. Remove the funnel and securely screw the priming plug back into place. Hand-tighten it first, then use your wrench to give it a final quarter-turn to ensure a tight, air-proof seal. Be careful not to overtighten, as this could damage the threads.
With the priming plug secured, you can now restore power to the pump. Go back to your circuit breaker and turn it back on.
After turning the power back on, the pump should start running. Listen for the sound of the motor and go to a nearby faucet to check if water is flowing. It might take a minute or two for the water to travel through the pipes and reach the faucet. You may see some air sputter from the tap initially, but this should quickly be replaced by a steady stream of water.
If water flows correctly, congratulations! You have successfully primed your deep well pump. If not, you may need to repeat the priming process. Persistent issues could indicate a leak in the system or a problem with the foot valve.
If you find that your pump works for a while and then loses its prime again, there is likely an underlying issue that needs to be addressed. The most common cause of a pump losing its prime is a leak in the suction line. Even a tiny leak can allow air to enter the system, which breaks the vacuum and causes the pump to fail.
Another common culprit is a faulty foot valve. The foot valve is a one-way valve located at the bottom of the drop pipe in the well. Its job is to hold water in the pipe when the pump is off, keeping it primed for the next use. If the foot valve is stuck open or damaged, water will drain back into the well, and the pump will lose its prime.
To troubleshoot, carefully inspect all the pipes and fittings between the well and the pump for any signs of leaks. If you don't find any visible leaks, the problem may be with the foot valve, which will require pulling the pipe from the well to inspect and replace.
Knowing how to prime a deep well pump is a valuable skill for any homeowner with a private well system. While the process may seem intimidating at first, following these steps can help you restore your water supply quickly and safely. Regular maintenance and prompt attention to issues like losing prime will ensure your deep well pump operates efficiently for years to come.
If you’ve tried priming your pump multiple times without success or if you suspect a more significant issue like a faulty foot valve, it’s always best to call a professional. A qualified well technician has the tools and expertise to diagnose and fix complex problems, ensuring your water system is both safe and reliable.
