Air Spurting From Faucets: Diagnosing Air in Well Lines | SCWS
Air bursting from your faucets when you turn them on? Learn what causes air in well water lines—from dropping water levels to failing pumps—and how to fix it properly.
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(760) 463-0493Understanding Air in Your System
Some air in well water is normal—groundwater contains dissolved gases that can come out of solution when pressure changes at the faucet. However, excessive air causing sputtering, spitting, and inconsistent flow indicates a problem. The air is either being pulled into the system through a leak, sucked in by the pump, or accumulating due to a failing component. Pay attention to when it happens: all the time, only at startup, during heavy use, or at specific fixtures. This pattern helps diagnose the cause.
Dropping Water Level Problems
If your water level has dropped below or near the pump intake, the pump draws air along with water. This happens during drought, over-pumping, or as aquifers deplete. Symptoms include intermittent air spurts (worse during heavy use), reduced flow rate, and the pump running longer. Verify by measuring your static water level if you have access. Solutions include lowering the pump deeper, restricting flow to let the well recover, or in severe cases, drilling a deeper or new well. A pump running dry can burn out quickly.
Pipe and Fitting Leaks
A crack, loose fitting, or bad seal in the piping between your pump and pressure tank can allow air to enter. Look for wet spots near pipe joints, listen for hissing sounds, and check fittings for corrosion. The drop pipe inside the well is a common failure point—PVC can crack, and threaded joints can work loose over time. Pitless adapter seals also fail. These leaks may not be visible since they're pulling air in rather than leaking water out. A well service professional can pressure test the system to locate leaks.
Pump and Check Valve Issues
Worn pump impellers cavitate, creating air bubbles in the water. A failing foot valve or check valve lets the water column drain back down the well between cycles—when the pump restarts, it pushes air ahead of the water. Signs of valve failure: pressure drops immediately after pump stops, pump runs briefly/stops/runs again, air clears after the first few seconds of flow. Check valves are accessible and replaceable. Pump impeller wear requires pulling and rebuilding or replacing the pump.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is air coming out of my faucets with the water?
Air in the lines usually means: your water level has dropped below the pump intake (pump is sucking air), you have a leak in the piping between pump and tank letting air in, the pump impellers are worn causing cavitation, or there's a crack in the drop pipe. After heavy pumping, air can also enter when the well recharges. Start by checking your water level if possible.
Can a bad check valve cause air in water lines?
Yes. A failed foot valve or check valve allows water to drain back down the well when the pump stops. When the pump restarts, it pulls in air before the water column fills back up. You'll notice this pattern: air spurts when you first use water after the pump has been off a while. The air clears after running for a minute. Replacing the check valve solves this.
Is air in well water dangerous?
Air itself isn't dangerous—it's just dissolved gases coming out of solution or air being introduced mechanically. However, air in the lines can indicate serious problems: a failing pump, dropping water level, or system leaks. These underlying issues need attention. Chronic air problems also cause water hammer, wear on fixtures, and inconsistent pressure. Address the cause rather than ignoring it.
Get Expert Help
Contact Southern California Well Service for professional assistance.
Call (760) 463-0493Serving San Diego, Riverside & San Bernardino Counties