Why is my well producing less water than it used to?

Declining well yield can result from several causes: a worn or failing pump, clogged or encrusted well screen, lowered water table (especially during drought), biofouling from bacteria, collapsed well casing, or increased water demand. A professional well evaluation can determine the specific cause.

Can a well recover from low water production?

Yes, in many cases. If the cause is pump-related, a replacement restores production. Clogged screens can be cleaned with chemical treatment or air bursting. Drought-related decline often recovers after significant rainfall. However, if the aquifer is permanently depleted, deepening the well or drilling a new one may be necessary.

How do I know if my well pump is failing vs. the well itself?

Pump problems typically show consistent low pressure regardless of usage time. Well problems often show initial good flow that weakens during extended use, or recovery after rest periods. A professional pump draw-down test measures both pump performance and well recovery rate to pinpoint the issue.

What does it cost to fix a well with declining water production?

Costs vary significantly by cause. Pump replacement runs $1,500-3,500. Well cleaning/rehabilitation costs $1,000-5,000. Hydrofracturing to improve yield costs $2,000-6,000. Well deepening ranges from $50-150 per foot. A new well typically costs $15,000-50,000 in Southern California depending on depth and location.