Well Pump Clicking Noise: Causes & How to Fix

What's Making the Clicking Sound?

The clicking noise you hear is almost always your pressure switch—a small device near the pressure tank that turns your pump on and off based on water pressure.

Normal Operation

• Pump runs 1-3 minutes to fill tank
• Switch clicks OFF
• Pump stays off 5+ minutes as you use water
• Switch clicks ON when pressure drops

Short Cycling (Problem)

• Pump runs 30 seconds or less
• Rapid clicking every few seconds
• Pump can't stay off even when not using water

Common Causes of Well Pump Clicking

1. Waterlogged Pressure Tank (Most Common)

The pressure tank should be 2/3 air and 1/3 water. When the air charge is lost, the tank fills completely with water. Without air to cushion, pressure spikes and drops rapidly, causing rapid cycling.

• Signs: Tank feels heavy, full of water
• Fix: Recharge air or replace tank
• Cost: $50-$150 recharge, $500-$1,200 replace

2. Failing Pressure Switch

Worn contacts in the switch can cause erratic operation, clicking without starting the pump, or failure to maintain proper pressure settings.

• Signs: Clicking but pump doesn't run, erratic pressure
• Fix: Replace pressure switch
• Cost: $100-$250 installed

3. Leaking Check Valve

The check valve prevents water from draining back into the well. If it fails, water drains back, pressure drops, and the pump has to run again immediately.

• Signs: Pump runs when no water is being used
• Fix: Replace check valve
• Cost: $150-$400 installed

4. Water Leak in System

Any leak causes pressure to drop continuously, triggering constant cycling.

• Signs: Wet spots, running water sound, higher water bills
• Fix: Find and repair leak
• Cost: Varies widely

5. Low Water Level in Well

If the well can't keep up with demand, the pump pulls air and pressure drops immediately.

• Signs: Sputtering water, air in lines
• Fix: Reduce usage, lower pump, or drill deeper
• Cost: $500-$15,000+ depending on solution

How to Diagnose the Problem

Step 1: Check the Pressure Tank

1. Turn off power to the pump
2. Tap the tank from top to bottom
3. Top should sound hollow (air), bottom should sound solid (water)
4. If entire tank sounds solid = waterlogged

Step 2: Check Tank Air Pressure

1. Turn off power and drain system
2. Use tire pressure gauge on tank valve
3. Should read 2 PSI below cut-in pressure (typically 28-38 PSI)
4. If 0 PSI or very low = bladder failed or no charge

Step 3: Check for Leaks

1. Turn off all water in house
2. Watch pressure gauge
3. If pressure slowly drops = leak somewhere
4. Check all fixtures, outdoor spigots, irrigation

Step 4: Listen to the Pump

• Clicking with no pump sound = bad switch or capacitor
• Humming with no running = stuck pump or bad capacitor
• Clicking with pump running briefly = tank or leak

How to Fix Well Pump Clicking

Fix 1: Recharge Pressure Tank Air

1. Turn off power to pump
2. Close valve between tank and house
3. Drain tank completely through hose bib
4. Use air compressor to add air through valve
5. Charge to 2 PSI below cut-in (e.g., 28 PSI for 30/50 switch)
6. Turn water back on, restore power

Note: If tank won't hold air, the bladder is failed and tank needs replacement.

Fix 2: Replace Pressure Switch

This is a DIY-able repair but involves electrical work. If not comfortable, call a professional.

1. Turn off power at breaker
2. Take photo of wiring
3. Remove old switch
4. Install new switch, match wiring
5. Restore power and test

Fix 3: Replace Check Valve

Usually requires professional service, especially for submersible pumps where the check valve is down-hole.

Fix 4: Replace Pressure Tank

If bladder has failed, replacement is the only solution. Most homeowners hire professionals for this.

Repair Costs

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

Why is my well pump making a clicking noise?

The clicking is your pressure switch rapidly cycling the pump on/off. This usually means a waterlogged pressure tank, failing switch, check valve leak, or system leak.

Is a clicking well pump dangerous?

Not immediately dangerous, but it needs to be fixed quickly. Short cycling overheats the pump motor and can cause premature failure.

Can I ignore the clicking noise?

No—ignoring it will likely result in a burned-out pump motor, which costs $1,500-$4,000 to replace vs. $100-$500 to fix the underlying issue.

How do I know if my pressure tank is bad?

If the entire tank sounds solid when tapped (no hollow air space at top), or if it won't hold air pressure after recharging, the bladder has failed and tank needs replacement.

Why does my pump click but not start?

This usually indicates a bad capacitor, faulty pressure switch contacts, or motor problem. The switch is trying to start the pump but something is preventing it.