How Do You Prime a Shallow Well Pump?

Locate the pump's base unit. Turn off the power switch to prevent the pump from turning on automatically while you work.

Turn on a faucet in your kitchen or bathroom. Allow it to run for up to a minute to relieve the pressure in the water line. Wait until water stops coming out, and then turn the faucet off.

Locate the priming plug on your pump. Use a wrench to remove the plug, and set it aside. Close the pump control valve.

Insert a funnel into the hole left by the priming plug. Fill the reservoir with water until it starts to overflow out of the priming hole. Remove the funnel, and replace the priming plug loosely.

Turn the power back on. If the pump does not start working immediately, start it manually. Watch the area around the priming pump. When air bubbles stop forming, cut the power.

Repeat steps four and five. Watch the area around the priming plug; when water starts flowing smoothly, your pump is primed.

Tighten the priming plug, ensuring a strong seal. Turn on the pump control valve and use your water system as usual.