Low Water Pressure from Your Well? Here's What's Causing It

The shower used to feel like a massage. Now it feels like a misting station. That pathetic dribble from your faucet isn't just annoying—it's your well system crying for help. Low water pressure is the most common complaint we hear from well owners in San Diego County, and here's the good news: 90% of pressure problems have straightforward, fixable causes. Let's figure out what's stealing your water pressure and how to get it back.

Common Causes of Low Well Water Pressure

1. Pressure Tank Problems

Your pressure tank maintains consistent water pressure throughout your home. When it fails, you'll notice:

• Waterlogged tank: The air bladder has failed, causing the pump to cycle rapidly
• Incorrect pressure settings: The tank's pre-charge doesn't match your pressure switch
• Tank too small: Undersized tanks can't keep up with demand

Fix: Check tank pressure with an air gauge. It should be 2 PSI below your cut-in pressure. If the bladder is bad, the tank needs replacement.

2. Failing Well Pump

Well pumps don't last forever. A pump nearing the end of its life will struggle to maintain pressure. Signs include:

• Pressure drops when multiple fixtures run
• Pump runs constantly but pressure stays low
• Sputtering or air in the lines
• Higher electric bills

If yours is older and struggling, it's likely time for a pump replacement.

3. Clogged Pipes or Screens

Sediment, mineral buildup, and debris can restrict water flow:

• Well screen: The screen at the bottom of your well can clog with sand or sediment
• Pipe scale: Mineral deposits build up inside pipes over time
• Filter cartridges: Whole-house filters need regular replacement

4. Dropping Water Table

In drought conditions—common here in Southern California—the water table can drop below your pump's intake. This is especially common in areas like:

• Julian and the mountain communities
• Anza and Aguanga
• Parts of Valley Center

If your well was drilled during a wet period, the static water level may have dropped. Solutions include lowering the pump or drilling deeper.

5. Pressure Switch Issues

The pressure switch tells your pump when to turn on and off. If it's malfunctioning:

• Pump may not turn on at the right pressure
• Contacts can corrode or burn out
• Settings may need adjustment

A typical residential pressure switch is set to turn on at 30 PSI and off at 50 PSI (30/50 setting). Higher settings like 40/60 are possible if your system supports it.

How to Diagnose Low Pressure

Before calling a professional, try these checks:

1. Check the pressure gauge: Your pressure tank has a gauge. Normal is 40-60 PSI. Below 30 PSI indicates a problem.
2. Listen to the pump: Is it running constantly? Cycling rapidly? Not turning on at all?
3. Check all fixtures: Is pressure low everywhere, or just one faucet? One fixture points to a localized clog.
4. Check your filters: When did you last replace whole-house filter cartridges?
5. Look for leaks: A major leak in your pressure tank or pipes will cause low pressure.

When to Call a Professional

"Low water pressure is often the first warning sign of bigger problems. Addressing it early can save you from emergency repairs down the road."

Call a well service company if:

• Pressure drops suddenly and doesn't recover
• You see sand or sediment in your water
• The pump runs but produces no water
• You hear grinding or unusual noises from the well
• Your electric bill spikes (pump running constantly)