NH Well Pump HelpWell pump FAQ
Short answers for homeowners on private wells in southern New Hampshire, with links to the sources.
How do I know if my well pump is failing?
Common signs: no water or very low pressure, a breaker that trips again after one reset, sputtering or air in the lines, a pump that runs constantly, and rising electric bills. A pump that clicks on and off every few seconds more often points to the pressure tank. A licensed pro can test the system to tell which part has failed. Source: The Well Guide: Well Pump Replacement Cost (2026)
What does a failing well pump sound like?
Most submersible pumps are deep in the well, so you usually hear the symptoms rather than the pump: the pressure switch clicking on and off rapidly, faucets sputtering, or the pump never shutting off. Rapid clicking often means a waterlogged pressure tank. Source: The Well Guide: Well Pressure Tank Guide
How long does a well pump last?
A quality submersible pump in a clean, properly sized well often lasts 12–20 years. Budget pumps can fail in 5–10 years, and short cycling from a bad pressure tank can shorten any pump’s life. Source: The Well Guide: Well Pump Replacement Cost (2026), The Well Guide: Well Pressure Tank Guide
How much does it cost to replace a well pump in NH?
It depends mostly on depth. Published 2026 figures run about $2,800–5,500 for pumps at 300–400 feet and $4,000–8,000+ at 400 feet or deeper. Emergency or weekend work adds 25–50% to labor. Many wells in our towns are 400–500 feet deep. Source: The Well Guide: Well Pump Replacement Cost (2026)
Will my well pump work on a generator?
Often, if the generator is big enough and wired to the pump circuit correctly. A pump draws several times its running current for a moment when it starts, so an undersized generator can stall. Have an electrician or pump pro confirm the sizing. Source: The Well Guide: Well Pressure Tank Guide
Does a well pump installer need a license in NH?
Yes. In New Hampshire, anyone in the business of installing or replacing a well pump needs a pump installer license from the NH Water Well Board (RSA 482-B:5). Licensed plumbers and electricians may repair and service pumps, but need a pump installer license to install or replace one. You can check a license on the NHDES lookup. Source: NH RSA 482-B:5 (pump installer licensing), NHDES: Water Well Contractor and Pump Installer Licensing, NHDES: Water Well Contractors & Pump Installers license lookup
What should I do after a well pump is replaced?
Run water to clear any air or sediment, keep the paperwork (pump brand, horsepower, depth set, warranty), and consider testing your water. NHDES recommends private well users test their water regularly. Source: NHDES: Private Wells
Where can I find out how deep my well is?
If your well was drilled after 1984, the driller had to file a well completion report with the state. You can search for it by address on NHDES OneStop. Your pump installer may also have records from past work. Source: NHDES fact sheet DWGB 1-16: Water Supply Options During Drought (PDF), NHDES OneStop (well completion records, since 1984)
Are you a well pump company?
No. NH Well Pump Help is a referral service. We pass your request to one independent, licensed local professional, who may pay us for the referral. We don’t perform well or pump work and don’t guarantee any provider’s work.
Is there any cost to me?
No. Requesting help through this site is free, and you’re never obligated to hire anyone. Any referral fee is paid by the professional and doesn’t change what you pay.
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