Well Pump Won't Turn On - Complete Troubleshooting Guide
Experiencing this problem right now? Call us for immediate assistance.
When you turn on a faucet and nothing happens—no pump sound, no pressure building—your well pump isn't starting. This can range from a simple tripped breaker to a failed pump motor. Before you panic, there's a logical troubleshooting sequence that can help identify the problem.
Common Causes
- Tripped Circuit Breaker: The most common and easiest fix. Power surges, lightning, or brief overloads can trip the breaker without damaging equipment.
- Failed Pressure Switch: The switch that tells your pump when to start may have failed contacts or burned out completely.
- Bad Control Box or Capacitor: Submersible pumps require a control box that can fail, especially the starting capacitor which gives the motor its initial boost.
- Burned Out Motor: Pump motors can fail from age, overheating (running dry), or electrical damage from lightning or power surges.
- Broken Wire: The wires running from the control box down to the pump can corrode, break at splice points, or be damaged by rodents.
- Stuck or Seized Pump: Sand, sediment, or mineral buildup can seize the pump impellers, preventing the motor from turning.
Warning Signs to Watch For
- Complete silence when water is demanded
- Breaker trips immediately when reset
- Clicking sound from pressure switch but no pump start
- Humming from control box but pump doesn't run
- Pump worked yesterday but nothing today
How to Fix This Problem
1. Check the Breaker
Go to your electrical panel and find the breaker labeled for the well pump (typically 30-60 amp double-pole). If it's tripped, reset it firmly. If it trips again immediately, stop—there's an electrical fault that needs professional diagnosis.
2. Listen at the Pressure Tank
Have someone turn on a faucet while you listen near the pressure tank. A clicking sound from the pressure switch means it's trying to start the pump. No click suggests a switch problem.
3. Check the Pressure Switch
Turn off power. Remove the cover and look for burned, pitted, or corroded contacts. Look for ant or insect nests blocking the mechanism.
4. Test the Control Box
If you hear humming from the control box but the pump won't start, the capacitor may have failed. Capacitor replacement is a common repair.
5. Check for Power at the Wellhead
Using a multimeter, verify power is reaching the wellhead. If you have power at the control box but none at the pump, there's a wire problem.
When to Call a Professional
While some minor issues can be addressed by homeowners, well system problems often require professional diagnosis. Call Southern California Well Service if:
- You're not comfortable working with electrical systems
- The problem persists after basic troubleshooting
- You notice multiple symptoms at once
- Your well is over 10 years old and hasn't been serviced
We offer same-day emergency service throughout San Diego, Riverside, and San Bernardino counties.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did my well pump suddenly stop working?
The most common causes of sudden failure are tripped breakers, lightning damage, failed capacitors, or a burned-out motor. Age also matters—pumps over 15 years old are prone to sudden failure.
How do I reset my well pump?
First, check and reset the circuit breaker. Some systems also have a reset button on the pressure switch or control box. If it trips again immediately, don't keep resetting—call a professional.
Can a pressure switch cause a pump not to start?
Yes. A failed pressure switch is a common cause. The switch may not close to send power to the pump, or the contacts may be too corroded to conduct electricity.
How much does it cost to diagnose a well pump problem?
A service call for diagnosis typically costs $150-250. This covers testing the electrical system, checking the pressure switch and control box, and identifying the fault.
Need Help Now?
Southern California Well Service provides expert well pump repair and diagnostics. We've been solving well problems across Southern California since 2006.
Call (760) 440-8520 for ServiceRelated Articles
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