Wiring a Water Well Pump Controller and Switch

To wire up a pump in a water well is a relatively small project you can do yourself (assuming you are the homeowner and local codes allow for this).  Many well drillers are not licensed and finding a licensed electrician can add unnecessary time and costs to the job.

Steps

Pump controller box

Step 1:

The controller box needs to be mounted, typically near the pressure tank.  The box is screwed to the wall as a surface mount. Choose an interior location, away from sunlight and not in a damp place, such as a well pit.  

Sensor switch

Step 2:

You will need to run power from the breaker box to the pressure switch. Here we are using two-wire, plus ground. 

Cable feed from left and out to controller box

Step 3:

The switch is fed from the left and a three-wire cable leads to the controller box.

Cable connector

Step 4:

Because this application is situated in a barn area, we have chosen to use BX rather than Romex cable.  Add the appropriate connectors for BX or Romex to the switch.  Cut and strip the leads and attach to the switch. (Note that rodents can easily chew through the white plastic, so we have used BX in this installation.) Be sure to check with local building codes in deciding between type of cable and possible need for conduit.  And don't forget - Be sure the power is OFF!

Cut cable to length

Step 5:

You will need to run power from the pressure switch on the pressure tank to the controller.  This contains the starting relay and capacitors.  This needs to be a three-wire, plus ground cable.  First, cut the cable to length. Install the anti-short or insulated bushing to wrap the ground around the cable.

Wiring controller box

Step 6:

Before you connect the wires, it is advisable to avoid corrosion by using an anti-oxidant on the wires.

Coat terminals with anti-oxidant

Step 7:

Use anti-oxidant on all wires including the ground. In our installation this box is within sight of the breaker panel and there is no need for a separate disconnect switch.

Pump cable

Step 8:

The cable from the pump typically has four strands and is cased in a heavy shielding. (Note that the conduit is not shown in this picture.) 

Strip sheathing on pump cable

Step 9:

Typical wire strippers will not work and though not very elegant you can use a knife to carefully cut back and remove the shielding.  You can then pull and expose the wire

Wide staple for pump wire

Step 10:

Cable stapes for pump wire are much wider than normal staples. 

Cable to controller

Step 11:

Attach the wires as per diagram, again using anti-oxidant.  In this article we are focusing on the interior connection.  If you need an exterior waterproof connection, click here.

Pressure tank

Step 12:

Before you fire the pump up with the power, check out the Start-up Procedures Manual from the Submersible Water Pump Association.  If you encounter problems, check the links below for help or e-mail us and we'll get an answer.

Reference:
Before discussing the wiring, you might want to read up about pump fundamentals from Gould. The Gould company also offers an installation guide if you have not completed the pump installation. Gould pumps has been manufactured since 1848 and is a trusted brand that we recommend.

Before you get started on the wiring you should see the wiring diagram and guide from PumpWorld where you can also select and order your pump on-line.  You might also want to read articles from PumpsOnLine.

You should also note that there are magazine devoted specifically to well, such as the Well Water Journal from the National Ground Water Association.  Be sure to check your local building code such as those from Oregon and New Hampshire.

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