Tool

How deep will a hand pump pump well water?

I have a an unused well and would like to put in a hand pump. Just one of those cheap ones from Northern tool. I tried to measure the water depth and came up with about 30' to the water line. It is a 30 inch diameter well.I don't know the total depth. I just want to be able to get water when the power goes out (again).

Public Comments

1. 33 feet is quoted 'Because atmospheric pressure will support a column of water no higher than about 10 meters (33 feet), a lift pump can raise water no further than this distance.'
2. I'm not sure what the lift is on those and it may vary, depending on the manufacturer. The supplier should be able to supply lift capabilities on their pumps. I remember some from when I was a kid and think the wells were around the 75 foot level but wouldn't swear to that, since it's been better than 60 years ago.
3. You say you have a well that's 30" in diameter, (across the pipe opening), and 30' deep to water. You do know you're going to have to install a check valve, pipe and a screen on the bottom of the hand pump and put it down into the water, in order to pump it out. Most of the hand pumps I've dealt with have a 1 1/4" threaded opening on the underside. I'd say you'll be lucky to be able to draw it that far up and you'll be working fairly hard doing it. Most electric shallow well pumps are only rated to pull 25'.