Signs a well pump needs repair
If the pump has serious issues, contact a professional plumber promptly.
Well pumps supply the house with water, so it's a major disruption when they start acting up. However, a pump rarely goes down without a warning sign, and knowing them can save a home from many water woes.
Here are some tell-tale signs of a pump that might need some help:
No water
The most glaring sign is that nothing comes out when turning on the tap. No water can mean the well pump is no longer operational. Still, before concluding it's the pump, check if it's a power issue. If the power is fine, the well pump might be the culprit.
Sputtering faucets
Sputtering faucets is a sign that air is entering the system, which shouldn't happen. This air intrusion could point to problems with the well pump or pressure tank. Check the pump, but consider calling a professional for a proper checkup.
High electric bills
A good pump shouldn't be a power hog. If the electric bill has skyrocketed without a clear reason, it might be working overtime. This could be due to a leak in the system or the pump struggling to maintain water pressure.
Strange noises
Well pumps should be relatively quiet. If odd noises start coming out of the pump or pressure tank, it's likely struggling. Grinding, humming, hissing, gurgling, screeching, or banging noises are cues to call in a professional.
Dirty water
Turning on the tap only to find dirty or sandy water is unsettling. This can indicate that the well pump is pulling in sediment from the bottom of the well, suggesting the pump might not be in the correct place or there's a failure in the system.
Constant cycling
A well pump that turns on and off constantly is not normal. The constant cycling could mean a leak in the system, a pressure tank issue, or the pump itself is on the brink. It's a sign the pump needs a professional checkup soon.
Low water pressure
If the water pressure at home has gone from powerful to weak without a good explanation, the well pump might struggle. Low water pressure could stem from different well pump issues. Some of them could be clogs or mechanical failure.
DIY checks and when to call a pro
A struggling well pump is a hindrance. Still, there are a few checks you can do before getting professionals involved. Check that the pump is getting power and there are no tripped breakers, check for leaks around the pump and pressure tank, and look at the pressure gauge on the tank. If the pump has serious issues, contact a professional plumber promptly.
Perry-Pump Repair Services is a water well repair company owned by a third-generation water specialist and manned by highly trained technicians who diagnose and repair low-pressure, no water, air on lines, and more. We offer commercial and residential customers in Lake Butler and surrounding areas wellhead extension and repair, jet pumps, deep and shallow wells, submersible pumps, booster pumps, sediment filters, constant pressure systems, contactless pressure switches, and irrigation pumps. Give us a call at (352) 474 - 7142.
