Well Pump Troubleshooting Checklist
📋 In This Guide
Quick Answer: Start with power (breaker), then pressure tank (gauge), then pressure switch (listen for click), then control box (3-wire only). Most problems are above ground. Know your limits—electrical issues need professional help.
Problem: No Water at All
Checklist
| Check | What to Look For | Action |
|---|---|---|
| ☐ Breaker | Tripped position | Reset (off then on) |
| ☐ Pressure gauge | Reading (PSI) | If 0, pump not running |
| ☐ Pressure switch | Listen for click | May need reset |
| ☐ Control box (3-wire) | Humming, burning smell | If humming, turn off, call pro |
| ☐ Valves | Main valve open? | Make sure open |
Common Causes
- Tripped breaker: Power issue, reset once
- Pressure switch failure: Not sending signal
- Control box failure: Capacitor or relay bad
- Pump failure: Motor burned out
- No water in well: Water level dropped
When to Call Pro
- Breaker trips repeatedly
- Humming/buzzing sound
- Burning smell
- Reset doesn't restore water
Problem: Low Pressure
Checklist
| Check | What to Look For | Action |
|---|---|---|
| ☐ Pressure gauge | Cut-in and cut-out PSI | Normal: 40-60 or 30-50 |
| ☐ Tank air charge | Should be 2 PSI below cut-in | Check with tire gauge (pump off) |
| ☐ Pressure switch setting | May need adjustment | Only if comfortable with electrical |
| ☐ Fixtures | Clogged aerators? | Clean or replace |
| ☐ Filter | Clogged sediment filter? | Replace filter |
Common Causes
- Low tank air charge: Waterlogged tank
- Pressure switch set low: Adjustable
- Clogged filter: Replace
- Pump wearing out: Declining output
- Leaks in system: Pressure can't build
DIY Fix
- Turn off pump
- Drain tank
- Check air charge at tank valve
- Add air to 2 PSI below cut-in
- Turn pump back on
Problem: Rapid Cycling
Signs
- Pump turns on/off every few seconds
- Clicking from pressure switch
- Short burst of water pressure
Checklist
| Check | What to Look For | Action |
|---|---|---|
| ☐ Tank air charge | Low or no air | Recharge (see above) |
| ☐ Tank bladder | Failed bladder | Replace tank |
| ☐ Check valve | Water draining back | Replace check valve |
| ☐ Leaks | Pressure dropping | Find and fix leak |
#1 Cause: Waterlogged Tank
- Air charge lost or bladder failed
- No air cushion = rapid cycling
- Damages pump over time
How to Check
- Turn off pump
- Open faucet to drain pressure
- Press air valve on tank
- If water comes out: bladder failed, replace tank
- If air/nothing: recharge air
Problem: Pump Runs Constantly
Signs
- Pump never shuts off
- High electric bill
- Pressure doesn't reach cut-out
Checklist
| Check | What to Look For | Action |
|---|---|---|
| ☐ Leaks | Visible leaks, wet spots | Fix leak |
| ☐ Running toilet | Constant fill valve | Fix toilet |
| ☐ Pressure switch | Not shutting off | Adjust or replace |
| ☐ Water level | Pumping air | Well may be low |
| ☐ Pump output | Not reaching pressure | Pump may be failing |
Common Causes
- Leak in system: Can't build pressure
- Running toilet: Constant demand
- Low water level: Pump can't keep up
- Worn pump: Can't reach cut-out
- Bad pressure switch: Not sensing pressure
Emergency Action
- If pump won't shut off, turn off breaker
- Prevents pump burnout
- Call for service
Quick Reference
| Symptom | Most Likely Cause |
|---|---|
| No water, no sound | Power issue (breaker, switch) |
| Humming, no water | Stuck pump or bad capacitor |
| Rapid cycling | Waterlogged tank |
| Runs constantly | Leak or worn pump |
| Low pressure | Tank air or filter |
| Air in water | Low water level or leak |
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
What's the first thing to check when well pump stops?
Check the breaker. It's the most common cause and easiest fix.
How do I know if it's the pump or the tank?
Tank issues = rapid cycling. Pump issues = no water or runs constantly without building pressure.
Can I troubleshoot without tools?
Basics yes: check breaker, listen for pump, watch pressure gauge. Further diagnosis needs multimeter.
When should I call a professional?
Electrical issues, humming pump, burning smell, breaker that keeps tripping, or if you're uncomfortable.
Need Professional Diagnosis?
We troubleshoot and repair well pump problems quickly.
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