Well Water Pump Repair: Complete Guide to Diagnosing and Fixing Pump Problems

When your well water pump fails, you need answers fast. Whether you're dealing with no water, low pressure, or a pump that won't stop running, understanding well water pump repair helps you make informed decisions. This comprehensive guide covers common pump problems, repair costs, troubleshooting tips, and how to know when repair makes sense versus replacement.

Understanding Your Well Water Pump

Before diving into repairs, it helps to understand how your well pump system works. Most residential wells in San Diego and Riverside Counties use one of two pump types:

Submersible Pumps

Submersible pumps are the most common type in our area. They're installed deep inside the well, typically 100-600 feet below ground. Key characteristics:

• Located underwater at the bottom of the well
• Push water up through the pipe to your pressure tank
• Very efficient for deep wells
• Typically last 10-15 years with proper maintenance
• Require specialized equipment to pull for repairs

Jet Pumps

Jet pumps are installed above ground and use suction to draw water up. They're suitable for shallow wells:

• Located in a pump house or basement
• Pull water up using a venturi mechanism
• Best for wells under 25 feet (shallow well jet) or 25-110 feet (deep well jet)
• Easier to access for repairs
• More prone to prime loss and less efficient for deep wells

Common Well Water Pump Problems

Understanding what can go wrong helps you communicate with your repair technician and evaluate their recommendations:

No Water At All

Complete loss of water is the most urgent problem. Possible causes:

• Power failure – Tripped breaker, blown fuse, or power outage
• Pressure switch failure – Not signaling the pump to turn on
• Control box failure – Relay, capacitor, or other component failed
• Burned out motor – Pump motor has failed completely
• Broken pipe or drop line – Water leaking back into the well
• Low water level – Drought or pump set too high

Low Water Pressure

Reduced pressure can indicate several issues:

• Worn pump impellers – Reduced pumping efficiency over time
• Waterlogged pressure tank – Failed bladder not maintaining pressure
• Clogged pipes or screens – Mineral buildup or sediment blockage
• Pressure switch maladjustment – Settings need calibration
• Partially closed valve – Check all valves in the system
• Declining well yield – The well itself is producing less water

Pump Running Constantly

A pump that won't shut off is working overtime and will fail prematurely:

• Water leak – Pipe break, running toilet, or dripping faucet
• Waterlogged tank – No air pressure to build up
• Stuck pressure switch – Contacts welded shut
• Check valve failure – Water flowing back down into well
• Pump can't keep up – Demand exceeds pump capacity or well yield

Pump Cycling On and Off Rapidly

Short cycling (also called short-cycling) causes excessive wear:

• Waterlogged pressure tank – Most common cause
• Pressure switch problems – Cut-in and cut-out too close together
• Small leak in system – Pressure drops just enough to trigger pump
• Undersized pressure tank – Not enough storage capacity

Air Sputtering from Faucets

Air in your water lines indicates:

• Low water level – Pump drawing air from above water level
• Suction leak – Air entering through pipe connections
• Failing pump – Worn seals or bearings
• Drop pipe leak – Crack allowing air entry

Sandy or Dirty Water

Sediment in your water suggests:

• Pump set too low – Drawing sand from well bottom
• Failed well screen – Allowing sediment entry
• Worn pump intake – Screen damaged or missing
• Well rehabilitation needed – Sediment accumulation in well

Well Water Pump Repair Costs

Repair costs vary significantly based on the problem and pump type. Here's what to expect in San Diego and Riverside Counties:

*Costs include parts and labor for typical installations. Deep wells (400+ feet) and difficult access may increase costs. Emergency/after-hours service typically adds 25-50%.

Repair vs. Replacement: Making the Right Decision

Not every pump problem requires full replacement. Here's how to evaluate your options:

Basic Troubleshooting You Can Do

Before calling for service, there are safe checks you can perform:

The Professional Repair Process

When you call for well water pump repair, here's what a professional service visit typically involves:

Step 1: Diagnostic Assessment

The technician will:

• Review the symptoms you've described
• Check electrical systems (voltage, amperage, continuity)
• Test pressure switch operation
• Check pressure tank condition
• Measure water pressure and flow
• Test the control box components

Step 2: Diagnosis & Estimate

After assessment, you'll receive:

• Clear explanation of the problem
• Recommended repair approach
• Written cost estimate before work begins
• Options if multiple solutions exist

Step 3: Repair Execution

With your approval:

• Parts are sourced (often same-day from stocked vehicles)
• Repairs are completed
• System is tested thoroughly
• Adjustments are made for optimal performance

Step 4: Testing & Handoff

Before leaving:

• Full system test under normal operating conditions
• Pressure settings verified
• Explanation of what was done
• Warranty information provided
• Recommendations for preventing future problems

Preventing Future Pump Problems

Regular maintenance extends pump life and prevents emergency repairs:

• Annual inspections – Professional check of all system components
• Pressure tank maintenance – Check air pressure annually
• Water quality testing – Corrosive or scaling water damages pumps faster
• Protect from power surges – Consider a pump protector device
• Monitor performance – Note changes in pressure or pump behavior
• Address small problems early – Don't wait for complete failure

Service Areas for Well Water Pump Repair

Southern California Well Service provides well water pump repair throughout:

Frequently Asked Questions