How To Install A Hand Pump On Your Well

‍A hand pump ensures you’ll always be able to get water out of your well no matter what. Learn how to install a hand pump from start to finish in this guide.

Installing a hand pump typically requires gathering the right tools, inspecting your well to make sure it can handle a pump, assembling the pump and pump cylinder, lowering it into the well, securing it, and then testing it with the hand lever.

Our goal with this site is to teach you as many survival tips and tricks as we can so you’re ready for any situation. When it comes to installing a hand pump in a well, we’ve been there ourselves and talked to many others who have done the work. This way, we can go over the exact steps needed so you can learn how to do the installation yourself.

‍Understanding the Basics of a Hand Pump

Before diving into the installation process of a hand pump on your well, it's essential to grasp some fundamental concepts. Hand pumps can be a reliable and cost-effective solution to access water from your well, providing an excellent backup to electric well pumps.

Supplying water for domestic, agricultural, or irrigation purposes, hand pumps are typically available in two types: shallow well hand pump and deep well pump.

As you are considering a manual pump for your well, it's vital to understand the differences between these types. Shallow well pumps are designed to draw water from depths of 25 feet or less, whereas deep well hand pumps can efficiently lift water from depths up to 350 feet.

Simple Pump, for example, offers a highly durable and efficient deep-well hand pump that conserves water during its operation. Imagine that — pumping water and saving water at the same time. What more could you ask for?

A hand pump installation requires some basic plumbing knowledge and tools. Here are the main components involved in the process:

• Well casing: This is the vertical pipe surrounding the well.
• Pump head: The upper part of the pump that houses the pumping mechanism and is secured to the well casing.
• Drop pipe: A long plastic or metal pipe extending from the pump head into the well, carrying water upward during the pumping process.
• Submersible pump: An existing electric pump typically installed at the bottom of the well, which can work alongside a hand pump.
• Pump cylinder: Located at the bottom of the drop pipe, it is responsible for creating suction and lifting water to the surface.

By understanding these basic concepts and preparing the necessary materials and tools, you are now ready to begin installing a hand pump on your well so you can pump water no matter what.

Pre-Installation Preparation

Before you begin installing a hand pump on your well, it's essential to prepare and gather the necessary materials. Doing so will ensure a smooth and successful installation process. Here's what you need to consider during the pre-installation stage.

First, identify the type of well casing you have. Well casings are usually made of PVC, steel, or iron, and knowing your well-casing material is important for choosing the right-hand pump.

Next, inspect your well cap. There are different types, including pitless well caps and machined well caps. Ensure that your chosen pump is compatible with the well cap you have.

Keep in mind that while these pumps can be extremely useful during power outages, they should not replace your existing electric pump altogether. Instead, a hand pump should be installed alongside your current submersible electric pump to provide an alternative water source when electricity is unavailable.

To install the pump, you'll need some PVC pipe, which will serve as drop pipes for the riser tube and for securing the pump to the well cap. It's a good idea to have a safety rope on hand as well – this will help you retrieve the pump if necessary down the road. When choosing materials, make sure they're compatible with your pump model.

Before diving into the installation process, assess your level of expertise and familiarity with well pumps. If you're a homeowner with limited experience, it might be wise to seek professional installation to ensure everything is set up correctly and safely. However, if you're confident in your abilities, then you can proceed with the installation process yourself.

Remember that your pump, like the Bison pump, should be installed following the manufacturer's guidelines and any local regulations related to well pumps. Make sure to thoroughly read any documentation and familiarize yourself with the installation process before starting.

Now that you've addressed these key considerations, you're well on your way to preparing for a successful pump installation. Just keep your friendly and proactive attitude, and you'll be able to tackle this project with ease.

Required Tools and Safety Measures

When installing a hand pump on your well, it's essential to have the proper tools and follow safety measures to ensure a successful and secure installation. Here are the necessary tools and safety precautions to keep in mind.

Firstly, gather the essential tools for the installation process. These include pliers, vice grips, an Allen wrench set, channel locks, wire strippers, and wire cutters. Having a complete set of tools will make the installation smoother and help you avoid any delays.

Before starting the installation, make sure to read and understand the manufacturer's instructions. These instructions provide critical information and safety guidelines that you should follow throughout the process. You may encounter warnings or caution notes, so carefully read these sections and follow the recommendations.

Safety is always a top priority. Ensure that you wear appropriate safety gear, such as gloves and eye protection, while working on the installation. Keep your working area clean and free of clutter to avoid tripping hazards or accidents.

When handling the pump, be cautious not to use any liquid sealant or pipe dope, as this can interfere with the piston operation and cause issues later on. Follow any specific guidelines provided by the manufacturer on securing the pump head or dealing with the well piping setup; each pump system might have different requirements and instructions.

Ensure that you have all the required tools and follow the necessary safety measures to make the process as easy and safe as possible. With patience, attention to detail, and a friendly attitude, installing a pump on your well can be a simple and rewarding DIY project.

Let’s learn how to do it!

How to Install a Hand Pump On Your Well

Once you have all the tools needed and gone through the preparation, it’s time to get down to the nitty-gritty. Here are the steps to carefully follow in order to successfully install a hand pump on your well.

Step 1: First, confirm your well piping setup and ensure that you can install a hand pump alongside the existing submersible pump. If you are unsure, consult a professional before proceeding.

Step 2: Begin assembling your pump by following the manufacturer's instructions. This usually involves securing the pump head to the counter by drilling a hole for the wellhead pipe, and four additional holes to screw the base of the pump into position.

Step 3: With the base secured, it's time to install the pump cylinder. Attach the piston rod to the piston and insert it into the pumping cylinder. Ensure that the check valve (typically a ball valve) and foot valve are properly positioned within the cylinder.

Step 4: Assemble the hand pump cylinder assembly by securing the pump rod (whether that’s the piston rod, sucker rod, or lift rod) to the clevis and connecting it to the lever arm. Make sure that all components of the pump are firmly attached to each other.

Step 5: Apply the appropriate sealant to the submersible pipe and press-fit guide. This is important to prevent water from leaking through the connections.

Step 6: Insert the pump cylinder assembly into the well, ensuring that the assembled pumping cylinder is connected to the pump rod. Secure the pump rod by attaching it to the rod gland with the provided seal kit.

Step 7: Carefully lower the pump cylinder assembly into the well casing, paying close attention to the depth of the well. Make sure to avoid damaging the pump components during this process.

Step 8: Once the pump cylinder assembly is properly positioned at the specified depth within the well, connect the lever arm to the pump head. This may require the use of a clevis or other specialized connectors provided by the manufacturer.

Step 9: Test the hand pump by operating the lever arm on the pump handle and observing the water flow. If water is pumped successfully, you have completed the installation process. If not, check all connections and components to ensure they are functioning properly, and consult the manufacturer or a professional if needed.

And there you have it! By carefully following these steps, you should have successfully installed a hand pump on your well. Remember to maintain and regularly check your pump to ensure its longevity and reliability.

Understanding Maintenance and Its Importance

Maintaining your well’s hand pump is crucial for its longevity and consistent water supply. By performing regular maintenance checks, you can prevent potential issues, such as corrosion or damage, ensuring your pump functions optimally. Moreover, timely maintenance can save you from costly repairs and ensure your warranty remains valid.

To start, it's good to have some basic tools at hand, such as pliers and an allen wrench. These will help you tighten or loosen certain parts of the pump quickly and accurately. Regularly inspect the pump for signs of wear, leaks, or any unusual sounds. If you encounter any issues, address them immediately to prevent them from becoming more severe.

One essential aspect of pump maintenance is keeping the wellhead clean. Clean the surroundings of the pump to avoid any dirt or debris getting into the well. A simple solution of bleach and water can be used to disinfect the wellhead and surrounding area. Be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions for application and contact time.

Another vital maintenance practice is lubricating the pump's moving parts. The manufacturer will typically recommend a specific type or brand of lubricant suitable for your hand pump. Make sure to apply the lubricant according to the instructions and as frequently as recommended to keep your pump working smoothly.

Remember, proper maintenance is crucial to guarantee the efficiency and longevity of your hand pump. Keep up with the manufacturer's guidelines and commit to a regular inspection and cleaning schedule. By following these simple practices, you can ensure your hand pump will provide a reliable water source for years to come.