Well Pump Replacement Cost
Replacing a well pump usually costs about $1,000 to $4,000 installed. Jet pumps for shallow wells sit at the low end. Submersible pumps in deep wells cost more because the crew has to pull the pump, pipe and wire out of the well. Before replacing the pump, check the breaker, pressure switch and pressure tank, which fail more often and cost far less.
Typical pro cost
$1,000 to $4,000
- Urgency
- Fix today
- DIY difficulty
- Hard
- Time to fix
- Half a day to 1 day (pro)
- Prices
- US typical range
Last reviewed October 2026
Signs it's this problem
- No water or sputtering faucets
- Water pressure drops or surges
- The pump turns on and off every few seconds
- Your electric bill jumped without explanation
- Air, sand or sediment coming out of taps
Common causes
Tripped breaker or blown fuse
The simplest cause. Check the well pump breaker and any disconnect switch first.
Failed pressure switch
Burned or pitted contacts stop the pump from starting. Replacing the switch is a small job.
Waterlogged pressure tank
A tank that has lost its air charge makes the pump short cycle and wear out quickly.
Worn pump or motor
Pumps usually last about 8 to 15 years. Sand, short cycling and low water levels shorten that.
Low water level
In drought, the water level can drop below the pump and it will run dry.
How to fix it, step by step
- 1
Check the breaker and any fused disconnect for the well pump. Reset it once only.
- 2
Look at the pressure gauge near the tank. If it reads below the cut-in pressure and nothing happens, the switch or pump is the problem.
- 3
With the power off, tap the pressure switch gently. If the pump starts after power is restored, the switch contacts are failing.
- 4
Check the pressure tank: with the power off and water drained, the air valve on top should hold air, not spit water.
- 5
If none of these fix it, call a well contractor to test the pump amps and pull it if needed.
- 6
Ask whether the pressure tank and switch should be replaced at the same time to protect the new pump.
Tools and materials
- Tire pressure gauge
- Screwdriver
- Multimeter (for testing voltage, if you are trained)
Approximate DIY cost: $0 to $150 for checks and a pressure switch
Call a pro when
- The pump runs but no water comes out
- You need the pump pulled from the well
- Breaker trips again after a reset
Well Pump Replacement Cost cost
| Job | Typical cost |
|---|---|
| Jet pump (shallow well), installed | $800–$2,000 |
| Submersible pump, installed | $1,500–$4,000 |
| Pressure tank, installed | $500–$1,500 |
| Pressure switch replacement | $100–$300 |
| Well contractor service call and diagnosis | $150–$400 |
Ranges are typical US prices compiled by FixHomeCost. Prices vary by region, home and contractor, so compare 2–3 local quotes.
Common questions
How long does a well pump last?
Most well pumps last about 8 to 15 years. Short cycling from a bad pressure tank and sand in the water shorten their life.
Should I replace the pressure tank with the pump?
Often yes if the tank is old or waterlogged. A failing tank makes a new pump cycle too often and wear out early.
Does homeowners insurance cover a well pump?
Usually not for wear and tear. Some policies cover damage from a sudden event such as a lightning strike. An equipment breakdown endorsement may cover it.
Can I replace a well pump myself?
A jet pump swap is possible for experienced DIYers, but submersible pumps are heavy, deep and wired at 240 volts. Most homeowners hire a well contractor.
Related guides
This is general information, not a professional inspection. See how we research costs.