It can be frustrating if your well pump stops working, especially if your home relies on well water. Whether you are in Reading, Sinking Spring, Fleetwood or elsewhere in Berks County, typical well pump problems can save your time and water emergency. Read this guide if your well pump has stopped completely
Below, we’ll dive into the most common well pump problems and solutions to get your water flowing again.
Things to Verify Before Assuming Your Well Pump Has Broken
Before assuming the worst, always check these areas:
- Power supply: Ensure the pump has electricity.
- Breaker: A tripped breaker might stop your pump from working.
- Pressure switch: Sometimes, the switch controlling water pressure might be the issue.
- Well tank: Is your tank running out of water or are you actually dealing with a separate part of the system? See the difference between a well pump and a well tank if you’re not sure which one is causing the problem.
Safety Note: If you need to open the pressure switch, touch any wiring or pull the pump, shut off the breaker first or call a plumber. Do not attempt wiring repairs yourself.
Once you’ve ruled out these simple fixes, it’s time to troubleshoot these well pump problems. If your system continues to experience issues, our well pump repair services can help diagnose and restore your home’s water supply.
How Long Do Well Pumps Last?
On average, a well pump can last between 8 and 15 years, depending on its usage and maintenance. If you have an older system or you see signs of a well pump failure, it might be nearing the end of its lifespan. If yours is in that range, see how often well pumps need to be replaced
Signs of a Faulty Well Pump
If you are confused, look out for these signs of a failing well pump:
- Water pressure is fluctuating.
- Air spitting from faucets.
- Water containing dirt or sediment.
- The pump runs constantly or cycles frequently.
- Strange noises coming from the well pump.
If you’re seeing several of these signs at once and the pump is over 8 years old, it’s worth reading through the signs it’s time to replace your well pump before you spend money on another repair.
Need a technician today? Our licensed well pump plumbers handle well pump services across Berks County. Call 484-332-3573 or book service online.
Common Well Pump Problems and Solutions
Is your water well not working? Here are five common problems and how to fix them:
1. Pump is Pumping Sediment
A well pump pulling up sediment or sand might indicate a low water table or a damaged well casing.
Solution:
- Install a sediment filter or choose whole-house water filtration to protect your fixtures and appliances while the cause is diagnosed.
- Have a professional check the pump depth and well casing. Do not pull or raise the pump yourself.
2. Pump is Pumping Air
If air is coming out of your faucets, your pump may be pulling air instead of water. This could happen if the water level in the well is too low or if there’s a leak in the suction line.
Solution:
- Check for leaks in the system.
- Ensure the water level in your well is adequate.
- If air keeps spitting from faucets, call plumber for inspect the drop pipe and check the well’s water level.
3. Water Pressure is Low
Low water pressure can result from a clogged filter, pipe blockage, or a pressure tank issue.
If pressure dropped gradually, it can also have causes beyond the pump. See what causes low water pressure from a well.
Solution:
- Check the filter and clean it if necessary.
- Have a professional check and adjust the pressure switch accordingly.
- Inspect the pipes for blockages or leaks.
4. Pump is Constantly Running
If your pump runs non-stop, it may mean there’s a leak in the system or the pressure switch is malfunctioning.
A hidden leak in the line can keep the pump running. Learn how to find a hidden water leak in your home or request water leak detection.
Solution:
- Inspect the system for leaks.
- Have a professional inspect the pressure switch and replace it if needed.
5. Pump is Constantly Cycling
Frequent cycling indicates an issue with the pressure tank or switch. Learn more about why well pump short cycles.
Solution:
- Check for waterlogged pressure tanks.
- Replace the pressure switch if needed.
If the tank is the cause, we also offer pressure tank repair service. Not sure what a failing tank looks like? See the signs a well pressure tank is going bad.
Signs of a Failing Well Pump: Why You Need Professional Help
Sometimes, despite your best troubleshooting efforts, you may still struggle with well pump problems. Some issues can be repaired, while others require a complete water well pump replacement to restore a reliable water supply. If you’re not sure whether your current well setup is even up to the job, our water well inspection and hiring guide is a good place to start before you call anyone out.
At Berks Plumbing & HVAC Specialist, we specialize in well pump troubleshooting and can help ensure your system is functioning properly. If your water well isn’t working, don’t hesitate to reach out to us for expert assistance. If a replacement is needed, you can review our financing options. Ready to book? Contact us or call 484-332-3573.
Frequently Asked Questions About Well Pumps
1. How long will my well pump last?
The average lifespan of a well pump is typically 8–15 years. This can vary based on factors like usage, maintenance, and pump quality. To maximize its lifespan, regular inspections and servicing are essential. If you notice decreased water pressure or unusual noises, have the pump checked promptly.
2. Should I repair or replace my well pump?
The decision depends on the specific issue and the pump’s age. Minor problems can often be repaired, but if your pump is older and frequently failing, replacement may be more cost-effective. Our full well pump repair vs. replacement guide breaks down exactly when each option makes sense.
3. How do I reset a water well pump?
Some pumps have a reset button on the control box or motor starter and many do not. The safest first step is to turn pump’s breaker off for about 60 seconds, then turn it back on. If the pump does not restart or the breaker trips again, stop doing anything and call a professional.
4. Why does my well pump keep turning on and off?
Frequent on and off cycling usually points to a waterlogged pressure tank or faulty pressure switch (see problem 5 above). Because short cycling wears out the pump motor quickly, it is worth having it checked soon. Our well pump repair team can diagnose it.