Power Outage, No Water: Emergency Solutions for Well Owners

The power's out and your well won't pump water. Emergency solutions, temporary water access options, and backup power planning for well-dependent homes.

📋 In This Guide

Immediate Steps When Power Goes Out
Emergency Generator Solutions
Long-Term Backup Options
Non-Electric Water Access
Frequently Asked Questions

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Immediate Steps When Power Goes Out

Conserve your pressure tank water—don't drain it on first flush. Use toilets sparingly (they use 1.6-3 gallons per flush). Fill containers from faucets while pressure remains. If you have warning before an outage (planned shutoff, incoming storm), fill bathtubs, pots, and containers. Your pressure tank is your only reserve.

Emergency Generator Solutions

A portable generator can run your well pump. You'll need the correct wattage (see FAQ), proper gauge extension cords or a transfer switch, and fuel. Important: Never backfeed a generator into your panel without a transfer switch—this is dangerous and illegal. Run the generator, let the pump refill the pressure tank, then shut off to conserve fuel.

Long-Term Backup Options

For well owners, backup power isn't a luxury—it's infrastructure. Options include: portable generators ($500-1,500), standby whole-house generators ($5,000-15,000 installed), battery backup systems (newer, limited runtime), or secondary hand pumps (shallow wells only). Solar battery systems are emerging options for well-dependent homes.

Non-Electric Water Access

Keep emergency water stored: 1 gallon per person per day for 3-7 days minimum. Water BOBs (bathtub bladders) store 100 gallons with warning time. Pool water works for toilet flushing and fire suppression. Know your nearest public water source (friend with city water, fire station, emergency shelter). For shallow wells, manual bucket retrieval is possible but not practical for drinking without treatment.

We service all major pump brands including Franklin Electric, Grundfos, Goulds (Xylem), and Sta-Rite (Pentair). Our trucks carry common parts and components for same-day repairs.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I get water from my well during a power outage?

Options depend on your well type: For shallow wells (under 25 feet), a hand pump can be installed alongside your electric pump. For deeper wells, a generator can power your pump. Some homeowners keep emergency water tanks filled by their well. Without preparation, you'll need stored or purchased water.

What size generator do I need to run my well pump?

Most residential well pumps need 3,000-5,000 watts to start (starting watts are higher than running watts). Check your pump's electrical plate for HP rating: 1/2 HP needs about 2,000-3,000 starting watts, 3/4 HP needs 3,000-4,000, and 1 HP needs 4,000-5,000. Always size for starting watts, not running watts.

How long can I be without well water during an outage?

Your pressure tank holds 20-40 gallons of pressurized water. After that's depleted, no more water flows. For extended outages, plan for 1 gallon per person per day minimum for drinking/cooking, more for hygiene. A family of four needs at least 4 gallons daily at minimum.