Well pump losing pressure: what to do?

A sudden drop in water pressure from a well pump can be frustrating and disruptive. But before you panic, there are several safe and straightforward steps you can take to diagnose and sometimes fix the issue yourself. This guide walks you through what to check, what to avoid, and when to call a professional.

What Is Happening?

Well pumps maintain water pressure by pushing water from the well into a pressure tank. The tank acts as a buffer, using compressed air to keep pressure steady. When pressure drops, it usually means the pump is not running, there is a leak, the pressure tank has lost its air charge, or the pressure switch has failed.

Emergency Warning

If you see water spraying near electrical components, or if the pump area is flooded, do not touch anything electrical. Turn off power at the main breaker if it is safe to do so, and call a professional immediately. Water and electricity are a dangerous combination.

What to Do First

1. Check the power. Ensure the well pump's circuit breaker is on. If it has tripped, reset it once. If it trips again, stop and call an electrician.
2. Check the pressure gauge. If the gauge reads zero even when water is running, the gauge may be broken or the pump may not be running.
3. Look for leaks. Inspect visible pipes, fixtures, and the pressure tank for drips or pooling water.
4. Test the pressure tank. With the pump off and water drained, use a tire gauge to check the air pressure at the tank's air valve. Compare it to the cut-in pressure (often 20-30 psi). If it is low, the tank may need recharging or replacing.
5. Inspect the pressure switch. Turn off power first. Remove the switch cover and look for burnt contacts or debris. If it looks damaged, replace it or call a professional.

What NOT to Do

• Do not repeatedly reset a tripping breaker. This can damage the pump motor or cause a fire.
• Do not ignore a flooded pump area. Stay clear and call for help.
• Do not adjust the pressure switch or tank without understanding the settings. Incorrect adjustments can damage the system.
• Do not run the pump dry. If the well is low, running the pump without water can burn out the motor.

When to Call a Professional

Call a licensed well pump technician if:

• The pump does not run even with power.
• You suspect a broken pipe underground.
• The pressure tank is waterlogged or damaged.
• You are uncomfortable working with electrical components.
• The problem persists after basic checks.

What to Monitor

After any fix, monitor the pressure gauge for a few days. It should hold steady and cycle normally when water is used. Watch for frequent cycling (pump turning on and off rapidly), which can indicate a tank issue.

How to Prevent It

• Have your well system inspected annually by a professional.
• Test the pressure tank's air charge yearly.
• Keep the area around the pump dry and free of debris.
• During dry spells, monitor your well's water level and avoid overuse.

By following these steps, you can often identify the cause of pressure loss and take safe action. If in doubt, always call a qualified professional.