Get Your Water Flowing Again with These Simple Steps to Prime a Water Well Pump

Living in a rural area or relying on a private water well has its perks, but it also means knowing how to handle the occasional hiccup. 

One of the most common issues you might face is losing water pressure due to an unprimed well pump. Fortunately, priming a water well pump is a task you can handle on your own. 

This comprehensive guide will walk you through four easy steps to get your water well pump back in action, ensuring a smooth water supply for your everyday needs.

Why Priming Your Water Well Pump is Crucial

When your well pump loses its prime, it can’t pull water, leading to a loss of water pressure. This problem often arises after repairs, power outages, or long periods of inactivity. Priming the pump helps to remove air pockets that disrupt water flow, restoring proper functioning.

Understanding the Basics of Water Well Pumps

Water well pumps are essential for drawing water from underground sources and delivering it to your home. There are two main types of well pumps:

• Jet Pumps – These are typically used for shallow wells and need to be primed more often.
• Submersible Pumps – These are used for deeper wells and generally hold their prime better than jet pumps.

Knowing which type of pump you have can help you better understand the priming process.

Common Causes of Lost Prime

Several factors can cause a well pump to lose its prime. Identifying these will help you prevent future issues.

• Power Outages – Sudden power cuts can cause the pump to lose its prime.
• Leaks – Tiny leaks in the suction line can allow air into the system.
• Poor Maintenance – Regular maintenance can prevent many of the issues that lead to loss of prime.

Step 1: Turn Off the Power

Safety first! Before you begin the priming process, make sure to turn off the power to the well pump. This step is crucial to avoid any accidental electrical shocks or damage to the pump.

Locating the Power Switch

Most well pumps have a dedicated circuit breaker or a switch near the pressure tank. Make sure to flip the switch to the “off” position.

Double-Checking Safety Measures

After turning off the power, double-check that the pump is indeed off. Test this by attempting to run water from a faucet. If no water comes out, you’ve successfully turned off the power.

Preparing Your Tools

Gather all necessary tools before starting. You’ll need:

• A hose or bucket
• Teflon tape
• A wrench
• A funnel

Step 2: Access the Priming Port

Next, you need to locate and open the priming port on the well pump. This port is where you will pour water to reintroduce water into the system and eliminate air pockets.

Finding the Priming Port

The priming port is usually situated on top of the pump or near the suction pipe. If you’re unsure, consult the pump’s manual for precise location details.

Opening the Port

Use a wrench to carefully remove the cap of the priming port. Be cautious as the area may be pressurized. Take your time to unscrew the cap fully without losing any parts.

Checking for Debris

Before you start pouring water, inspect the priming port and surrounding area for any debris or blockages. Cleaning these out will ensure a smoother priming process.

Step 3: Fill the Pump with Water

With the priming port open, it’s time to fill the pump with water. This step is critical to re-establishing the water flow and getting rid of air pockets.

Using a Hose or Bucket

Attach a hose to a nearby water source or fill a bucket with clean water. Carefully pour the water into the priming port using a funnel to avoid spills.

Quantity Matters

Fill the pump until the water starts overflowing from the priming port. This ensures that the entire system is saturated with water, eliminating any remaining air pockets.

Replacing the Priming Cap

Once filled, securely replace the priming cap. Make sure it’s tight enough to prevent air from entering the system but not so tight that you can’t easily remove it next time.

Step 4: Turn the Power Back On and Test

The final step involves turning the power back on and testing the pump to ensure it’s properly primed and functioning.

Restoring Power

Go back to the circuit breaker or switch and turn the power to the pump back on. You should hear the pump activate almost immediately.

Testing the System

Turn on a faucet inside your home to test the water flow. If water is flowing smoothly, your pump is successfully primed. If not, you may need to repeat the priming process.

Monitoring Performance

Keep an eye on the pump and water pressure for the next few days. If you notice any issues, it might indicate a deeper problem that requires professional attention.

How to Maintain Your Water Well Pump

Regular maintenance is vital for preventing future priming issues. Here are some tips to keep your well pump in optimal condition.

• Regular Inspections – Check your pump and plumbing regularly for signs of wear and tear.
• Seal Leaks Promptly – Address any leaks immediately to prevent air from entering the system.
• Scheduled Servicing – Have a professional inspect and service your pump annually.

Benefits of Regular Maintenance

Consistent maintenance not only extends the life of your well pump but also ensures a steady water supply and reduces the likelihood of costly repairs.

DIY Maintenance Tips

While some maintenance tasks are best left to professionals, you can tackle basic upkeep yourself. Regularly clean the area around your well, check for leaks, and ensure the pump is properly calibrated.

When to Call a Professional

If you encounter persistent issues even after priming and basic maintenance, it’s time to call in a professional. They can diagnose and fix more complex problems that you might miss.

Conclusion

Priming a water well pump doesn’t have to be a daunting task. By following these four simple steps—turning off the power, accessing the priming port, filling the pump with water, and testing the system—you can restore your water flow and ensure a steady supply for your home. Regular maintenance further enhances the longevity and efficiency of your well pump.

Take Action Today with John’s Well Drilling

Professionals at John’s Well Drilling have over 40 years of experience in the industry. We are Delaware’s leading well drilling and servicing company. 

We are accredited by the Better Business Bureau and licensed to conduct well drilling and installation of geothermal systems. 

Our services include well drilling, well pump installation, pump repair, and replacement, tank replacements, well servicing geothermal drilling, and agricultural wells. Call us at 302-734-2211 or fill out our contact form to get a free quote.