Pebbles well pump-how to check if well is dry?

[ba_50]

Hi,

We've got an old Peebles well pump in the basement that hasn't been used for 30 years. I'm not sure how to prime it. It hums but that doesn't mean it is working right. I want to see if there is water in the well.

We have another electric pump that will lift 20' which probably isn't enough.

Thanks