3 Wire Submersible Well Pump Wiring Diagram

If you are looking to install a submersible well pump in your home, you must first understand the wiring diagram of the pump. A submersible well pump is typically used to draw water from underground wells and pump it up to the surface for use. These pumps are powered by electricity and require specific wiring for safe and efficient operation. In this article, we will discuss the wiring diagram for a 3 wire submersible well pump and provide some common questions and answers about the installation process.

What is a 3 Wire Submersible Well Pump?

A 3 wire submersible well pump is a type of well pump that requires three wires to operate. These wires are typically color-coded and include a black, red, and green wire. The black and red wires are used to power the pump, while the green wire is used to ground the pump to prevent electric shock. The pump motor is typically controlled by a pressure switch that turns the pump on and off based on the water pressure in the well.

How Does a 3 Wire Submersible Well Pump Work?

A 3 wire submersible well pump is installed inside the well casing and is connected to the water supply through a pipe. When the pressure in the tank drops below a certain level, the pressure switch turns on the pump motor, which draws water up from the well and into the tank. Once the tank is full, the pressure switch turns off the pump motor, and the cycle repeats when the tank pressure drops again.

What Are the Components of a 3 Wire Submersible Well Pump?

A 3 wire submersible well pump consists of several components, including:

  • Motor: The motor is the primary component of the pump and is responsible for turning the impeller to draw water from the well.
  • Impeller: The impeller is a rotating disk that creates suction to pull water into the pump.
  • Diffuser: The diffuser is a series of curved vanes that direct the flow of water from the impeller to the discharge pipe.
  • Check valve: The check valve is a one-way valve that prevents water from flowing back down into the well when the pump is not running.
  • Pressure switch: The pressure switch controls the operation of the pump motor based on the water pressure in the tank.
  • Control box: The control box regulates the power supply to the pump motor and contains fuses and other safety features.

Wiring Diagram for a 3 Wire Submersible Well Pump

The wiring diagram for a 3 wire submersible well pump may vary depending on the manufacturer and model of the pump. However, most pumps follow a similar wiring diagram that includes the following:

  1. Disconnect power supply to the pump circuit.
  2. Remove the cover from the pump control box.
  3. Connect the black wire from the power supply to the black wire from the pump motor.
  4. Connect the red wire from the power supply to the red wire from the pump motor.
  5. Connect the green wire from the power supply to the green wire from the pump motor.
  6. Connect the white wire from the power supply to the white wire from the pressure switch.
  7. Connect the black wire from the pressure switch to the T1 terminal on the control box.
  8. Connect the red wire from the pressure switch to the L1 terminal on the control box.
  9. Connect the green wire from the pressure switch to the ground screw on the control box.
  10. Replace the cover on the control box and secure it with screws.
  11. Tighten all wire connections and check for any loose wires or damaged insulation.
  12. Turn on the power supply to the pump circuit and test the pump operation.

Important Safety Tips for Wiring a Submersible Well Pump

When wiring a submersible well pump, it is important to follow these safety tips:

  • Always disconnect power supply to the pump circuit before working on the wiring.
  • Use electrical tape or wire nuts to secure wire connections.
  • Do not touch any electrical components with bare hands.
  • Wear rubber gloves and safety goggles to protect against electric shock.
  • Consult a professional electrician if you are unsure about any aspect of the wiring process.

FAQ

Q: Can I wire a submersible well pump myself?

A: While it is possible to wire a submersible well pump yourself, it is recommended that you hire a professional electrician to ensure safe and correct wiring.

Q: What size wire should I use for a submersible well pump?

A: The size of wire needed for a submersible well pump depends on the horsepower of the pump and the distance between the pump and the control box. Typically, a 14-gauge wire is used for pumps up to 1/3 horsepower, while a 12-gauge wire is used for pumps up to 1/2 horsepower. For larger pumps, a 10-gauge wire may be needed.

Q: How deep can a submersible well pump go?

A: The depth that a submersible well pump can go depends on the size of the pump and the depth of the well. Small pumps may be able to reach depths of 100 feet or less, while larger pumps can reach depths of over 500 feet.

Q: How long do submersible well pumps last?

A: The lifespan of a submersible well pump depends on several factors, including the quality of the pump, the frequency of use, and the water quality in the well. On average, a well-maintained submersible well pump can last between 15 and 25 years.

Q: How do I know if my submersible well pump is failing?

A: Signs that your submersible well pump may be failing include low water pressure, sputtering or excessive noise from the pump, or discoloration or odor in the water supply. If you suspect a problem with your pump, it is important to contact a professional for inspection and repair.

Conclusion

A 3 wire submersible well pump is a reliable and efficient way to draw water from underground wells. By understanding the wiring diagram for your pump and following important safety tips, you can ensure safe and effective operation of your well pump for years to come.