A water well is a source of water to a majority of rural and suburban Pennsylvania homes. However, its performance measured by water yield, pump performance, and well tank pressure may decline as the whole system ages. It can lead to potential failures resulting in partial or complete loss of water in the home. By recognizing early signs that a well pump needs replacement, homeowners can avoid costly emergencies. Timely replaced well pumps can keep their water systems running smoothly. Stay informed to protect your investment.
How long do well water pumps last?
Well water pumps in Pennsylvania generally last 10 to 15 years. Their functioning depends on usage, maintenance, and water quality. Regular checks and timely repairs can stretch their lifespan. In some cases, with good care, pumps may even last up to 20 years. Monitoring performance is essential to ensure a reliable water supply.
5 Warning Signs Your Well Pump Needs Replacement
There are five reasons to replace the well pump. Let’s get them to understand one by one.
1. Sudden Drop in Water Pressure
Do you experience a notable drop in the water pressure when you switch on your water supply? It can be a potential issue with your well pump. This decline may imply that the pump is struggling to pull enough water. It thus indicates the early stages of a failure. Besides, if you’ve added a bathroom, installed a dishwasher, or got a water heater with a large quantity, your existing well pump may be undersized for these changes and unable to meet the increased demand for water. This situation could lead to an imbalance in your home’s water flow. Hence, it is time to thoroughly inspect the well pump to ensure it can efficiently support your household needs.
Possible causes of reduced water pressure include:
- A hole in the pressure tank
- Malfunctioning mechanisms
- The buildup of iron bacteria in the pipes
To diagnose the issue, check whether it affects all faucets. If it only affects certain ones, the issue may not be with the well pump.
2. Air “Spitting” from Faucets
If you see air bubbles coming through the pipes with inconsistent water flow after you turn on the faucet, it is time for a new well pump. If the pump cannot pull water up and is pulling in air, it also means you need to replace the well pump. Similar to a decrease in water pressure, this signals the pump’s ill-functioning. Your well pump may be about to fail completely.
Possible causes of air spitting from faucets include:
- A pipe crack linking the pump to your home may have formed. A plumber or well pump repair specialist can repair it.
- The water table has fallen below the pump, or your well is running dry. If this problem persists, the well may need to be deepened.
3. Well Pump Runs Constantly
If your well pump is running continually, it likely indicates you need a new one. In the case of an above-ground jet pump system, the intake pipe must be primed, often due to a leak in the suction line. It is necessary because the jet system requires water to generate suction and pull water into the water line. If there is no water, it could mean the pressure control switch is faulty, there is a leak in the pipe, or the pump is worn out and unable to create enough water pressure to activate the cut-off switch.
Possible consequences of Well Pump running constantly include:
- A drop in the water table may mean your well must work harder to supply water to your home.
- You might also leak a plumbing fixture, such as a continuously running toilet or a serious faucet leak.
4. Strange Noises from the Pump or System
One of the most common signs of well pump failure is a persistent clicking sound from the pressure tank. When the air bladder inside the tank leaks or bursts, it triggers a domino effect, which makes the well pump turn on and off repeatedly, leading to that characteristic, unnerving clicking sound. If the problem is not called in to be repaired by a professional, the damaged air bladder will also speed up the degradation of the well pump motor. The constant stress can cause the pump to fail prematurely, opening the door to far more costly and major repairs in the future.
Possible reasons for Strange Noises from the Well Pump include:
- Air in the system
- Cavitation from low water levels
- Debris obstructing the pump
- Electrical issues
- Loose or damaged pipes
- Misalignment of components
- Worn bearings
- Worn impeller
5. Dirty or Discolored Water
A metallic or egg smell in your well water usually indicates harmless minerals. However, if the water contains dirt or sediment, it’s crucial to address this immediately as it may relate to the well pump. You might need a new pump if it’s too large and pulling in silt, or a repair if it’s incorrectly placed or has a damaged filter screen. Regardless of the issue, avoid drinking cloudy or dirty water until the problem is resolved and your water is tested.
What could it be:
- Broken water pipes can introduce dirt and sediment into your water system.
- High mineral content in your well can also lead to sediment issues.
- A well water filtration system can help keep your water clean.
- If only hot water is affected, the problem may stem from the water heater.
- Heavy rain can wash surface water into your well, causing contamination, while a neighbor’s septic leak may also contaminate the groundwater.
Well Pump Replacement
When to replace a well pump in PA depends on age, performance, and maintenance. If you see a decline in water pressure, hear strange noises, or notice frequent cycling, it’s time to replace it. Well pumps last about 10-15 years, so if yours is older, we suggest proactive replacement. It can prevent unexpected failures. Replacing a well pump can range from $800 to $2,500. The average cost of well pump replacement depends on the type, depth of the well, and installation complexities. Regular maintenance can extend the average life of a well pump and efficiency.
Do You Need to Replace the Well Pump? Contact Us Today!
If you notice signs that your well pump may fail, acting quickly is important. Early intervention can prevent more substantial issues and costly repairs down the line. Don’t wait for the problem to escalate. Contact us today for a thorough inspection or an estimate.
Remember, prompt action can restore your peace of mind. Notice any of the above-mentioned warning signs? Contact Berks Plumbing today to get ahead of the problem!
At Berks Plumbing in Pennsylvania, we prioritize your well-being. We work towards increasing the efficiency of your water supply. If you’re noticing signs of well pump failure, don’t wait for it to worsen. Understanding the life expectancy of a well pump and being aware of the signs of a bad well pump can save you time and money.
Call us today at +1 484 332 3573 for expert assessment and reliable service to keep your water flowing smoothly!
