How to Unfreeze a Well Water Pump

In general, well pumps are designed to withstand temperatures below freezing without freezing themselves. Most well pumps are installed within the well casing, where the surrounding groundwater provides some insulation and helps prevent freezing. However, the pipes and components connected to the well pump are more vulnerable to freezing.

While there is no specific average temperature at which a well pump freezes, it is important to be cautious when temperatures drop close to or below freezing (32°F or 0°C). Taking preventive measures, such as proper insulation, protecting exposed components, and implementing heat sources, can help reduce the risk of freezing even in cold weather conditions.

However, on rare occasions, a well pump may freeze. From insulation techniques to applying targeted heat, I’ll help you understand the nuances of each pump type and provide practical tips to safely unfreeze your well water pump. So, bid farewell to the icy frustration, and let’s embark on a journey to restore running water to your home.

How to Unfreeze Well Water Pump by Type

Depending on the type of pump you have, there are different preventative measures you can take to avoid this predicament. Below is a list of common types of well water pumps and how they are affected by low temperatures:

Submersible pumps

Submersible pumps are typically installed inside the well itself, completely submerged in water. They are sealed to prevent water from entering the motor and electrical components. 

These pumps consist of a motor connected to an impeller. The impeller spins rapidly, creating suction and pumping water to the surface. The pump is connected to the power supply via cables, which are often protected by a conduit.

While the pump itself is protected by being submerged, the pipes and electrical connections leading to the surface are still vulnerable to freezing if they are not adequately insulated. Submersible pumps with above-ground control boxes are especially prone to freezing if the control box is not protected from the cold.

How to unfreeze a submersible pump

1. Turn off the power: Before attempting any unfreezing methods, ensure the power supply to the submersible pump is switched off at the circuit breaker or disconnect switch. This step is crucial to your safety.

2. Thaw the well cap or wellhead: If the well cap or wellhead is frozen, start by carefully pouring warm water over the area to gradually thaw the ice around the pump. Avoid using boiling water because rapid temperature changes can cause damage. Allow the warm water to slowly melt the ice, helping to free the pump.

3. Use a space heater or heat gun: Position a space heater near the well cap or wellhead, ensuring it’s a safe distance away from any flammable materials. Alternatively, you can use a heat gun, or a propane heater on a low setting. 

Direct the heat toward the well pump, focusing on the areas where freezing is suspected. Keep the space heater or heat gun running until the ice has melted, periodically checking for signs of thawing.

4. Insulate the well cap or wellhead: Once the submersible pump has thawed and is operational, consider insulating the well cap or wellhead to prevent future freezing. Use insulation materials, such as foam insulation or well covers, to provide protection against cold air and maintain a more stable temperature around the pump.

5. Monitor for water flow: After the submersible pump has thawed, restore the power supply and monitor for water flow. Turn on a faucet or spigot connected to the pump’s plumbing system and observe the water flow. If the water is flowing normally, the submersible pump is successfully unfrozen.

How to prevent freezing in a submersible pump

• Insulate above-ground components: Insulate any above-ground components of the submersible pump system, such as the well cap or wellhead. Use insulation materials or well covers designed to provide protection against cold air. Proper insulation helps maintain a more stable temperature around the pump.

• Insulate exposed pipes: Insulate any exposed pipes connected to the pump. Wrap them with foam pipe insulation or use heat tape to prevent freezing. Pay particular attention to areas where pipes are vulnerable to cold air exposure, such as near the wellhead or in above-ground control boxes.

• Protect electrical connections: Ensure all electrical connections related to the pump system are properly sealed and protected. Use waterproof junction boxes and conduit to shield electrical connections from moisture and freezing temperatures.

• Install a well house or pit: Consider constructing a well house or pit to house the submersible pump. These structures provide additional insulation and protection against freezing temperatures. Insulate the walls, ceiling, and floor of the well house or pit to maintain a more stable temperature inside.

• Apply heat to the well cap or wellhead: During periods of extreme cold, apply a heat source, such as a heat lamp or heating cable, to the well cap or wellhead. This helps provide localized warmth and prevent freezing in the immediate area surrounding the pump.

• Maintain a minimum water level: Keep an adequate water level in the well to ensure the submersible pump remains submerged. This helps utilize the surrounding groundwater as insulation and reduces the risk of freezing.

• Regular maintenance: Perform routine maintenance on the submersible pump system, including checking for any signs of leaks, inspecting insulation, and ensuring proper operation. Regular maintenance allows you to identify and address any issues before they escalate or lead to freezing problems.

Jet pumps

Jet pumps are typically installed above ground and use suction to draw water from the well. They are commonly used in shallow well applications (up to 25 feet) or in combination with a jet assembly in deeper well applications. Jet pumps consist of a motor that powers the impeller and diffuser system, as well as an injector assembly and pressure tank.

A jet pump is usually connected to the well by water pipes that can be exposed to freezing temperatures. 

How to unfreeze a jet pump

1. Turn off the power: Start by switching off the power supply to the jet pump at the circuit breaker or disconnect switch. This ensures your safety during the unfreezing process.

2. Insulate exposed pipes: Insulate any exposed pipes connected to the pump. Use foam pipe insulation or heat tape to wrap and cover the pipes. This helps prevent further freezing and aids in thawing the frozen sections.

3. Apply heat to a frozen pipe: Use a hairdryer or heat gun set to low or medium to apply heat directly to the frozen pipes. Start from the area closest to the pump and work your way towards the well. Move the heat source back and forth over the frozen section, keeping it a few inches away from the pipes. The gentle heat will gradually thaw the frozen pipes.

4. Thaw the control box: If your jet pump has an above-ground control box, inspect it for signs of freezing. Use a hairdryer or heat gun on a low heat setting to apply gentle heat to the control box. Be cautious when applying heat near electrical components and connections.

5. Monitor for water flow: After thawing the frozen pipes and control box, restore power to the pump by switching on the circuit breaker or reconnecting the power supply. Turn on a faucet connected to the jet pump’s plumbing system and observe the water flow. If water starts flowing normally, the jet pump is successfully unfrozen.

How to prevent freezing in a jet pump

• Insulate exposed pipes: Insulate any exposed pipes connected to the jet pump. Wrap them with foam pipe insulation or use heat tape to provide insulation and prevent freezing. Pay attention to areas where water pipes are vulnerable to cold air exposure, such as near the well or in above-ground control boxes.

• Protect the control box: If your jet pump has an above-ground control box, ensure it is insulated and protected from freezing temperatures. Use insulation materials or an enclosure designed for control box protection to maintain its functionality.

• Install a well pit or house: Consider installing a well pit or well house to house the jet pump and related components. These structures provide additional insulation and protection against freezing temperatures. Insulate the walls, ceiling, and floor of the well pit or house to maintain a more stable temperature inside.

• Apply heat to vulnerable areas: During periods of extreme cold, apply heat to vulnerable areas of the jet pump system. Use heat lamps, heating cables, or space heaters in well pits or well houses to provide localized warmth. Ensure the heat sources are placed safely and follow manufacturer guidelines.

• Maintain a minimum water level: Keep an adequate water level in the well to ensure the jet pump remains submerged. This helps utilize the surrounding groundwater as insulation and reduces the risk of freezing.

• Regular maintenance: Perform routine maintenance on the jet pump system, including checking for any signs of leaks, inspecting insulation, and ensuring proper operation.

Shallow well pumps

Shallow well pumps, as the name suggests, are designed specifically for wells with depths of up to 25 feet. They are typically installed above ground or in a well pit near the well. Shallow well pumps consist of a motor that drives the impeller and diffuser system. They often include a pressure switch to control the pump’s operation and maintain water pressure in the system.

If the pit or well house is not properly insulated or protected from cold air, shallow well pumps can be prone to freezing.

How to unfreeze a shallow well pump

1. Turn off the power: Start by switching off the power supply to the shallow well pump at the circuit breaker or disconnect switch. This ensures your safety during the unfreezing process.

2. Thaw the well cap or wellhead: If the well cap or wellhead is frozen, carefully pour warm water over the area to gradually thaw the ice around the pump. Avoid using boiling water, as rapid temperature changes can cause damage. Allow the warm water to slowly melt the ice, helping to free the pump.

3. Apply heat to the pipes: Inspect the exposed pipes connected to the shallow well pump. If frozen sections are visible, use a hairdryer or heat gun on low or medium to apply gentle heat directly to the frozen pipes. 

Start from the area closest to the well and work your way towards the pump. Move the heat source back and forth over the frozen section, keeping it a few inches away from the pipes. The gentle heat will gradually thaw the frozen pipes.

4. Thaw the control box (if applicable): If your shallow well pump has an above-ground control box, check it for signs of freezing. Use a hairdryer or heat gun on a low heat setting to apply gentle heat to the control box. Take caution when applying heat near electrical components and connections.

5. Insulate exposed pipes: Once the shallow well pump has thawed and is operational, insulate any exposed pipes connected to the pump. Wrap them with foam pipe insulation or use heat tape to provide insulation and prevent future freezing.

6. Monitor for water flow: After thawing the frozen pipes and ensuring the control box is free from ice, restore the power supply to the shallow well pump by switching on the circuit breaker or reconnecting the power. 

Turn on a faucet connected to the pump’s plumbing system and observe the water flow. If water starts flowing normally, the shallow well pump is successfully unfrozen.

How to prevent a shallow well pump from freezing

• Insulate the well house or pit: If your shallow well pump is housed in a well house or pit, ensure it is properly insulated. Insulate the walls, ceiling, and floor of the structure to protect the pump from freezing temperatures. Use insulation materials such as foam board or fiberglass insulation.

• Insulate exposed pipes: Insulate any exposed pipes connected to the pump. Wrap the pipe with heat tape or foam pipe insulation to provide insulation and protect against freezing. Pay attention to areas where pipes are vulnerable to cold air exposure, such as near the well or in above-ground control boxes.

• Apply heat to vulnerable areas: During periods of extreme cold, apply heat to vulnerable areas of the pump system. Use heat lamps, heating cables, or space heaters in well pits or well houses to provide localized warmth. Ensure the heat sources are placed safely and follow manufacturer guidelines.

• Protect the control box: If your pump has an above-ground control box, ensure it is insulated and protected from freezing temperatures. Use insulation materials or an enclosure designed for control box protection to maintain its functionality.

• Maintain a minimum water level: Keep an adequate water level in the well to ensure the pump remains submerged. This helps utilize the surrounding groundwater as insulation and reduces the risk of freezing.

• Regular maintenance: Perform routine maintenance on the pump system, including checking for any signs of leaks, inspecting insulation, and ensuring proper operation.

Above-ground well pumps

Above-ground well pump systems are well pump setups that are entirely located above ground. They are common where the well is not deep and the water source is easily accessible. They typically consist of a motor, impeller, pressure tank, pipes, and various fittings and valves. The motor powers the impeller, which creates pressure to move water from the well.

If these above-ground systems are not well-insulated or protected from the elements, they are more likely to freeze during cold weather.

How to unfreeze an above ground pump system

1. Turn off the power: Begin by turning off the power to the well pump at the circuit breaker or disconnect switch. This is crucial to ensuring your safety during the unfreezing process.

2. Insulate the well pump system: Inspect the above-ground components of the well pump system, including the pump, pipes, water tank, and any other exposed parts. If they are not already insulated, wrap them with insulation material, such as foam pipe insulation or heat tape, to help prevent further freezing.

3. Apply heat to frozen components: There are several methods to apply heat and thaw the frozen parts of the well pump system including the following:

• Directing a space heater towards the frozen components, focusing on the pipes and pump. Keep the space heater running until the system thaws.

• If there are specific frozen areas, such as frozen water pipes or a frozen pressure switch, use a heat gun, hair dryer, or heating pad. Move the heat source back and forth over the frozen section, keeping it a few inches away, until the ice melts. Do not use a propane torch! This may result in a burst pipe. 

• Another method is to pour hot water over the frozen components or wrap towels soaked in hot water around them. This can help gradually thaw the ice and restore water flow.

4. Monitor the thawing process: As you apply heat, closely monitor the thawing process. Be patient — it may take some time for the ice to melt and water flow to resume.

5. Check for leaks and damage: After the system has thawed, carefully inspect the components for any signs of leaks or damage. If you notice any leaks or suspect damage, seek professional assistance to assess and address the issues.

6. Restore power and test the system: Once you’re confident that the well pump system is thawed and undamaged, restore power to the pump by switching on the circuit breaker or reconnecting the power supply. Test the system by turning on a faucet and checking for a steady flow of water.

How to prevent an above-the-ground pump from freezing

• Insulate exposed components: Insulate all exposed components of the above-ground well pump system, including water lines, fittings, pressure tank, and the pump itself. Use foam pipe insulation, heat tape, or other insulation materials to wrap and cover these components. Pay particular attention to areas prone to freezing, such as elbows and joints.
• Install a well pump cover or enclosure: Construct or purchase a well pump cover or enclosure to shield the system from cold air and precipitation. Ensure the cover is appropriately sized and properly sealed to provide insulation and protection. Consider using insulation materials within the cover or enclosure for added warmth.
• Provide a heat source: Install a heat source, such as a small heater or heat tape, near the well pump system. This can help maintain a stable temperature and prevent freezing. Position the heat source safely, away from flammable materials, and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for proper usage.
• Seal air leaks: Inspect the well pump system for any air leaks or gaps that could allow cold air to enter. Seal these openings with caulking or weatherstripping to minimize the infiltration of cold air and maintain a warmer environment around the system.
• Protect the control box: If the well pump system has a control box, ensure it is insulated and protected from freezing temperatures. Use insulation materials or an enclosure designed for control box protection to maintain its functionality.

What Causes the Freezing of Well Pumps?

Below is a list of the factors that contribute to frozen pumps:

• Low temperatures
• Insufficient insulation
• Shallow placement of pipes
• Power outages or malfunctions
• Inadequate heat source
• Poor drainage
• Water flow interruption

Symptoms of a Frozen Well Water Pump 

When it comes to determining if a residential well pump is frozen, there are several signs and symptoms you can look out for:

No water flow

The most obvious indication of a frozen well pump is a lack of water flow from your faucets. If you turn on a faucet and there is no water coming out or only a trickle, it could be a sign of a frozen pipe or pump.

Strange noises

Frozen well pumps may produce unusual sounds. Listen for any grinding, humming, or rattling noises coming from the well pump or plumbing system. These sounds can indicate that the pump is struggling to work due to ice blockages.

If your well has a wellhead or well cap that is accessible, listen for any unusual noises or sounds emanating from it as well. Sometimes, you may hear the sound of running water or a gurgling noise, indicating that the well pump is trying to work but is obstructed by ice.

Drop in water pressure

Another sign to watch for is a sudden decrease in water pressure. If you notice a significant drop in the water pressure throughout your home, it could be a result of frozen pipes or a frozen water pump.

Frosty or frozen pipes

Check the exposed pipes leading to and from the well pump. If you notice frost or ice buildup on the pipes, it suggests that the pump or pipes are frozen. However, keep in mind that not all well pump systems have exposed pipes, so this may not always be applicable.

Low or no water level

If you suspect your well pump may be frozen, it’s worth checking the water level in the well. If the water level is lower than normal or completely depleted, it may be a result of freezing conditions.

Frost line

The frost line, also known as the freezing depth or frost depth, refers to the depth at which the ground freezes during cold weather conditions. It is the point below the surface where the soil and groundwater freeze due to the ambient temperature reaching or dropping below the freezing point.

The depth of the frost line varies depending on geographical location, climate, and the duration and intensity of cold temperatures. In regions with colder climates, the frost line tends to be deeper, sometimes extending several feet below the surface. In milder climates, the frost line may be shallower or even nonexistent.

The depth of the frost line can indirectly affect the risk of a well pump freezing. If the frost line extends deep enough to reach the well pump or the pipes connected to it, there is an increased likelihood of freezing. The freezing temperatures can impact the water supply and potentially cause the well pump or pipes to freeze.

Conclusion

When the freezing temperatures of winter grip your well water pump, it’s essential to approach the situation with care and seek professional assistance if needed. Thawing a frozen well pump may seem daunting, but armed with the right knowledge and a personalized approach, you can overcome the challenge and restore the flow of water to your home.

By diligently following the steps we’ve discussed, such as applying targeted heat, insulating exposed components, and regular maintenance, you can navigate the unfreezing process effectively. However, it’s important to recognize your limits and seek professional help if you’re unsure about the process or encounter difficulties along the way. 

Experienced well pump technicians or plumbers possess the expertise and tools to safely thaw a frozen well pump and address any underlying issues that may arise.