Install a hand pump on an electric well

This really works as I have actually done this. It won't work in all circumstances as your well needs a slight positive static pressure, but not necessarily an artesian well. There are formulas for depth vs suction all this is overcomed if the positive static is present. My well is about 80 feet deep. Start pumping!

reply to post by TimeOfZera


This looks something like the pump my Dad installed on our 5 acres of land that we owed back in the early 1960's. We used this land in the summer to camp on. Dad was really cool with making things work out in the wilderness. He even found the water with a divining rod. A trick I could never figure out from him.


Edit:
Opps, ok just noticed you said electric well, nope no electricity with his contraption.

reply to post by TimeOfZera

Pitcher Pump= $50, pipes and valves = $35. Not a bad life saving investment for SHTF and under $100. You'll be the most important guy in the neighborhood! I bought the pump at the local hardware store but also seen them at flea markets and china freight type of stores for less.

reply to post by TimeOfZera
If your leathers and your jet are good it should hold it's prime, and if your pipe is PVC it's best to use PVC Cement (better known as "blue glue") whether your pipe is threaded or not. Also when switching to a hand pump it's best to brace it underneath (a simple 2x4 platform will do) so that you don't break the pipe if you "muscle" it too much while pumping. Just adding two cents earned through experience.

reply to post by StarsInDust


Dad's like that Rock. I am very grateful that I did not have a Homer Simpson for a father

Will this work on a well with a submersible pump, or does the well have to have an above ground pump?

reply to post by Frogs


Not sure, but in an emergency situation I would think you could pull up the submersible pump and install this one.

reply to post by Frogs


I would think with a submersible pump you could still draw the water through it even with it off. I'm not 100% but I don't see what would restrict you from doing so.

You would still need to have a ball valve to shut off your pressure tank before you started pumping.

I think I just might do this to my well even though you can reach down into the casing and practically touch the water.

reply to post by TimeOfZera


In your diagram why does it say to only use metal on the hand pumps end? Wouldn't PVC be sufficient enough?

reply to post by TheLieWeLive


you want the metal pipe between the hand pump and well casing for strength. the pumping action from the lever would eventually break. If you decide to install one you'd appreciate the strength and its value is well worth the three bucks you spend on a metal pipe

reply to post by TimeOfZera
That is good if you have a steel well, but the majority of people have PVC wells. If your well casing is PVC running metal pipe into it may keep the pipe from breaking off into your well but wont protect your casing from breakage, which is why I advised building a wood platform to support the hand pump.

I've seen some options that can actually completely replace your electric pump in an emergency, and I'm still researching the best one for me.

Solar is nice, but just too expensive, especially as I have to think it is even more prone to breakdowns. I need an option that can still get water into the house, and out of faucets, etc., but not rely on electricity (not even solar or generator electricity). I don't even care of someone is on a bike pedal while another is showering, etc.

they also make these $45 missile-shaped well buckets you can use in a pinch. I plan on picking up one of these as a temporary just in case measure...just as the price is right until I find a more permanent option.