How Many Amps Does a Well Pump Use?
The number of amps a well pump uses depends on its horsepower (HP), voltage, and efficiency. Here's a breakdown:
1/2 HP Well Pump
- Voltage: 120V
- 120V: ~9-10 amps
- 240 V: ~4-5 amps
Cable Size:
- Up to 150 feet: 14 AWG
- 150–300 feet: 12 AWG
- Over 300 feet: 10 AWG
1/2 well pump should operate on a 15 amp circuit breaker.
3/4 HP Well Pump
- 120V: ~13-14 amps
- 240 V: ~6-7 amps
3/4 well pump uses a 20 amp circuit breaker.
Cable Size:
- Up to 150 feet: 12 AWG
- 150–300 feet: 10 AWG
- Over 300 feet: 8 AWG
1 HP Well Pump
- 120V: ~16-17 amps
- 240 V: ~8-9 amps
1 HP well pump operates on a 25 amp circuit breaker.
Cable Size:
- Up to 150 feet: 10 AWG
- 150–300 feet: 8 AWG
- Over 300 feet: 6 AWG
1.5 HP Well Pump
- 240 V: ~10-12 amps
1,5 HP submersible pump uses a 30 amp circuit breaker.
Cable Size:
- Up to 150 feet: 8 AWG
- 150–300 feet: 6 AWG
- Over 300 feet: 4 AWG
2 HP Well Pump
- 240V: ~13-15 amps
It is recommended that a 2 HP well pump be run on a 40 amp circuit breaker.
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Cable Size:
- Up to 150 feet: 6 AWG
- 150–300 feet: 4 AWG
- Over 300 feet: 2 AWG
The horsepower of the well pump is indicated on the pump label or in the pump manual. Residential pumps are usually 1/2 HP to 1 HP, while large irrigational pumps can be 1,5 HP or more.
A well pump can effectively run on a 3500-watt generator, which consumes up to 1050 watts. A 120V pump pulls more amps than a 240V pump because the same power requirement is divided by a lower voltage, resulting in higher current.
Common Types of Cables for Well Pumps
Submersible Pump Cable
Explicitly designed for submersible well pumps.
Features:
- Resistant to water, chemicals, and abrasion.
- Flexible and durable for installation in tight spaces.
- Available in flat or round configurations.
- Conductors: Includes 2 or 3 insulated power conductors and a ground wire.
Subtypes:
Round cables: Flexible and durable, ideal for deep wells and tight spaces. Designed to handle the stress of installation and retrieval.
Flat cables: Compact and lightweight, suitable for shallow wells. Best for straight runs with minimal bending.
Heavy-duty cables: Built for harsh conditions and industrial use. Durable and reliable in extreme environments.
THW cables: Twisted and unjacketed, designed for submersion in well casings. Suitable for powering submersible pumps.
THHN/THWN Wire
For above-ground wiring or where conduit is used.
Features:
- Rated for wet or dry locations (THWN for wet locations).
- Used in conduit leading to a well casing.
UF-B Cable (Underground Feeder Cable)
Suitable for buried wiring between the power source and the well.
Features:
- Designed for direct burial without conduit.
- Resistant to moisture and sunlight.
Control Cable (for 3-Wire Pumps)
Used to connect the control box to the pump.
Features:
- Includes multiple insulated conductors to handle control signals.
At Nassau National Cable, you will find everything to power your well pump, including all types of submersible pump cables, THHN/THWN-2, and UF-B.
