What To Do When Your Well Pump Stops Working

A well pump is a crucial part of many homes, especially those in rural areas where municipal water is unavailable. It draws water from underground and delivers it to your home. However, like any mechanical device, well pumps can malfunction, leaving you without water. When your well pump stops working, it can feel overwhelming, but understanding the basics and following the right steps can help you troubleshoot the problem and determine whether you need professional assistance. In this article, we’ll walk through what to do when your well pump stops working.

1. Check the Power Supply

One of the most common reasons a well pump stops working is due to a loss of power. Before assuming there’s a serious issue, check the power supply.

• Circuit Breaker: Start by checking your circuit breaker. The pump may have tripped the breaker due to an electrical overload. If the breaker is flipped, reset it. However, if it trips again, there could be an electrical issue, and you’ll need an electrician to inspect the wiring.
• Pump Power Switch: Some well pumps have a separate power switch. Make sure the switch hasn’t been turned off accidentally.
• Fuse Check: If your well pump system has fuses, one of them may have blown. In this case, you will need to replace the fuse to restore power.

If the power is restored and the pump starts working again, problem solved. If not, it’s time to dive a little deeper into potential causes.

2. Examine the Pressure Switch

The pressure switch is a vital component of your well pump system. It controls the pump’s operation based on water pressure levels in your pressure tank. If the pressure switch is faulty, it may prevent the pump from turning on.

• Manual Override: Try to activate the pressure switch manually. If the pump starts working, the switch may need to be replaced or adjusted. In some cases, a clog or debris can block the pressure switch, so make sure it’s clean.
• Testing with a Multimeter: If you have experience with electrical tools, you can test the pressure switch using a multimeter to check if power is flowing through it. If the switch is faulty, replacing it is relatively inexpensive and straightforward.

3. Check for Low Water Levels

Low water levels in your well can prevent the pump from working properly. If the water table has dropped below the level of the pump intake, the pump won’t be able to draw water.

• Well Depth: If your well is shallow, it may be more susceptible to seasonal changes in water levels. If you’re in a drought or have been using more water than usual, the water table could have dropped.
• Submersible Pump Issues: If you have a submersible pump, low water levels can cause the pump to overheat or run dry, leading to damage. If you suspect low water levels, you may need to contact a professional to measure the water depth in your well and adjust the pump’s placement.

4. Inspect the Pressure Tank

Your well pump works in tandem with a pressure tank to provide a steady water supply to your home. If there’s an issue with the pressure tank, the well pump may struggle to maintain water pressure.

• Bladder Tank Issues: Most pressure tanks have a rubber bladder that separates air from water. If this bladder bursts, the tank may become waterlogged, leading to inconsistent water pressure and causing the pump to short-cycle. A short-cycling pump can wear out quickly, so it’s important to address this issue immediately.
• Pressure Gauge: Check the pressure gauge on the tank. The ideal pressure range for most systems is between 40 and 60 psi (pounds per square inch). If the pressure is outside this range, adjusting the settings or adding air to the tank may resolve the issue.

5. Inspect the Pump for Damage

If your well pump isn’t responding at all, physical damage to the pump itself could be the culprit.

• Pump Seals: Over time, the seals in your pump can wear out or become damaged. This can lead to a loss of pressure or water leaks.
• Motor Burnout: If the pump motor overheats or experiences a surge of electrical current, it can burn out. This is especially common in older pumps. If the motor has burned out, it will need to be replaced.
• Clogged Intake: Dirt, sand, and other debris can clog the pump intake, restricting water flow. In such cases, cleaning the intake or installing a sediment filter might help.

6. Address Airlocks

Airlocks can occur when air gets trapped in the pump or plumbing system, disrupting water flow. This can happen if the well runs dry temporarily or during a pump installation or maintenance.

• Bleeding the System: To remove an airlock, you’ll need to bleed the air from the system. This usually involves opening faucets in your home to release the trapped air, allowing the pump to regain normal pressure.

7. Look for Frozen Pipes

In colder climates, a well pump system may stop working due to frozen pipes. If temperatures have dropped significantly, inspect your pipes for signs of freezing.

• Insulation: Insulate any exposed pipes to prevent freezing in the future. If a pipe has already frozen, you may need to carefully thaw it using a heat source like a space heater or hair dryer. Avoid using open flames as they can damage the pipes.
• Pump Location: Ensure that your pump and any associated piping are located in areas that won’t freeze during the winter months. If necessary, consider relocating the pump to a more protected space.

8. Evaluate for Leaks in the System

Leaks in your plumbing system can cause a drop in water pressure, which may make it seem like your well pump isn’t working.

• Check for Leaks: Inspect your plumbing system for any visible signs of leaks, such as pooling water, damp spots, or dripping. Even a small leak can disrupt the performance of your pump.
• Fixing Leaks: If you identify a leak, repairing it quickly will prevent further damage to your pump system and avoid wasting water.

9. Consult a Professional

If you’ve gone through the above troubleshooting steps and still can’t get your well pump to work, it may be time to call in a professional. Some issues, such as a deep well problem, a broken submersible pump, or electrical malfunctions, require specialized tools and knowledge to fix.

• Professional Help: A well service technician can perform a more thorough inspection and identify deeper issues, such as problems with the well itself or the pump motor. They may also be able to perform more advanced repairs, such as rewiring the pump or replacing faulty components.

10. Preventative Maintenance Tips

To avoid well pump failure in the future, regular maintenance is key. Here are a few tips:

• Schedule Annual Inspections: Have a professional inspect your well system annually. This will help you catch potential problems early before they become costly repairs.
• Monitor Water Usage: Try to avoid heavy water usage during periods of drought or low rainfall. Overusing your well can cause the pump to overheat or burn out.
• Install Surge Protection: Electrical surges can damage your well pump’s motor. Installing a surge protector can protect your system from damage.

Conclusion

When your well pump stops working, it’s easy to panic, but many issues can be resolved with some basic troubleshooting. From checking the power supply and pressure switch to inspecting the pressure tank and looking for physical damage, you can often identify the problem and take appropriate steps to fix it. If you’re unsure or uncomfortable with troubleshooting, consulting a well professional can save time and ensure the job is done right. Regular maintenance and preventative care can also extend the life of your well pump and reduce the likelihood of sudden failures.