How to Troubleshoot and Fix Problems with Your Residential Well Pump

Nothing beats the feeling of having a reliable water source in your home. A well provides a constant supply of clean water for your home and garden. While a well doesn't cost you any money in water bills, it requires regular maintenance. One of the most crucial parts of this feature is the pump, which moves water from the well to your storage tank. A faulty pump means little or no water for your home. Therefore, when you encounter problems, it's paramount to resolve them immediately. Below are tips for troubleshooting problems with your well pump.

Motor Failure 

Various mechanical and electrical issues can cause pump motor failure. Some common problems include:

  • Incorrect wiring of the pump, which causes severe damage to the motor
  • Overheating of the motor due to inadequate cooling
  • Dry running of the pump

The motor can also fail due to loss of power. The system's circuit breaker may turn off power to prevent overheating. Check the electric box to see if the breaker has tripped. If not, you may have a damaged motor. Fix the motor and remember to prime the pump to prevent further damage.

Noisy Well Pump

Well pumps aren't entirely quiet as they make some sounds when pumping water from your well. However, if your pump produces unusual noises, it requires attention. A squealing or clicking sound usually signals worn pump bearings. Check the bearings for signs of wear and tear. Also, inspect the pressure control switch for humming sounds. These noises indicate a stuck relay, and failure to fix it can cause overheating. If the motor hums but doesn't start, it could seize. Turn off the well pump and seek repair services.

Continuous Motor Operation

Your pump cycles on and off at intervals as it pumps water to your storage tank. If the system is running continuously, there may be a problem. One of the most common issues is a faulty pressure gauge. The gauge's switch should turn off the pump once the pressure reaches a preset level. If this doesn't happen, the pressure gauge requires repairs. Continuous motor operation could also signal a leak in your plumbing. A leak prevents the proper pressure from the building, causing the pump motor to run continuously.

Inadequate Water 

Is there inadequate water passing through your well pump? If the water levels in your well are okay, the next thing to check is the pump. Inspect the supply valve and look for signs of wear. If you've recently replaced the valve, check if it is installed correctly and turned on. Inspect the impeller to look for clogs or physical damage. Check your supply pipes for clogs that could hinder water flow.

Don't attempt DIY repairs on your well pump. If you are encountering any of these issues, contact well pump repair services. 

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