Is your water well pump running smoothly, or do you want to make sure it will keep doing so for years to come?
Understanding Your Water Well Pump
You depend on your water well pump to deliver water to your home and property reliably. Knowing what type of pump you have and how it works gives you a huge advantage when it comes to maintenance and troubleshooting.
Types of Well Pumps
There are a few common types of well pumps, each with different maintenance needs. Submersible pumps sit inside the well and are used for deeper wells, jet pumps are typically above ground for shallow wells, and hand pumps or turbine pumps may be used in special situations.
How a Typical System Is Configured
A typical well system includes the pump, a pressure tank, a pressure switch, a check valve, drop pipe, and electrical controls. Every part plays a role in delivering steady pressure and protecting the pump from damage.
Why Regular Maintenance Matters
If you maintain your well pump regularly, you’ll keep your system efficient, prevent unexpected failures, and protect your water quality. Routine care can also extend the life of the pump and lower your overall repair and replacement costs.
Signs Your Well Pump Needs Attention
You should act when you notice unusual symptoms, because early care often prevents more costly problems. Common warning signs include:
- Short cycling (pump turns on and off rapidly).
- Low or fluctuating water pressure.
- Strange noises from the pump or pump house.
- Discolored, cloudy, or foul-smelling water.
- Wet spots or pooling water near the wellhead.
- Noticeable increases in electric bills.
Tools and Materials You’ll Need
Keeping a basic kit on hand makes routine checks easier and safer. Here are common items and their uses.
| Tool / Material | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Adjustable wrench, pliers, screwdrivers | Basic mechanical and electrical troubleshooting |
| Multimeter / voltage tester | Check voltage and electrical continuity |
| Pressure gauge (if not on system) | Verify system pressure and pump cycling |
| Tire pressure gauge | Check air charge on some pressure tanks |
| Pipe wrench and Teflon tape | Tighten fittings and prevent leaks |
| Replacement pressure switch, fuses | Quick swap for common failures |
| Chlorine bleach and pump tank pump kit | For sanitizing well and plumbing |
| Protective gloves, safety glasses | Personal protection during maintenance |
| Notebook or maintenance log | Record readings and interventions |
Safety First: Precautions Before You Start
Safety should be your top priority. Always turn off power at the breaker before working on electrical components, avoid working in wet conditions, and use insulated tools when appropriate. If you’re unsure about electrical work, call a licensed electrician or well professional.
Electrical Safety and Lockout
Lock out and tag the circuit so it cannot be turned on accidentally while you work. Use a voltage tester to confirm the power is off before touching wiring. Never bypass safety devices or cover damaged wiring with temporary fixes.
Maintenance Schedule: What to Do and When
A clear schedule helps you stay proactive without overdoing it. The table below summarizes recommended tasks and frequencies you can adapt to your system’s age and usage.
| Frequency | Tasks |
|---|---|
| Weekly | Visual check for leaks, listen for unusual pump sounds, confirm normal pressure when using water. |
| Monthly | Check pressure gauge stability, inspect pressure tank exterior for corrosion or wetness, visually inspect wellhead and cap. |
| Quarterly | Test water for appearance and smell, check wiring condition in pump house, measure pump cycle rate. |
| Biannually (twice a year) | Check and clean pressure switch contacts if accessible, test system pressure settings. |
| Annually | Full water test for bacteria and nitrates, inspect pressure tank bladder or air charge, inspect well cap/casing and surface seals, evaluate electrical components and connections. |
| Every 2–3 years | Have a professional measure pump drawdown and well yield, inspect and test check valves, replace worn pressure switches or capacitors as needed. |
| Every 5–10 years | Consider video inspection of well casing, evaluate pump efficiency and plan for replacement if performance is declining. |
Weekly and Monthly Tasks
Small frequent checks can catch issues early. These tasks take little time but provide big peace of mind.
Visual Inspections
Look for pooling water, rust, or corrosion around exposed components. Confirm the well cap is secure and undamaged. If you notice wetness around the wellhead or casing, that can indicate a leak or surface runoff entering the well.
Listen and Feel
When you use a faucet, note how the pump starts and stops. Excessive vibration, knocking, or high-frequency squealing can be early signs of mechanical or electrical trouble. If your pump cycles rapidly, that could mean a problem with the pressure tank or the pressure switch.
Quarterly and Biannual Tasks
Every few months, you should perform slightly more detailed checks to keep things in good shape.
Pressure Switch and Contact Cleaning
Inspect the pressure switch for corrosion or debris, but only with the power off. Lightly cleaning contacts can improve operation. If the switch shows heavy corrosion or pitting, replacement is typically the safer option.
Electrical and Wiring Inspection
Check that wires are secure, insulation is intact, and junction boxes are dry and free of pests. Loose or corroded connections can cause overheating and premature failure.
Annual Maintenance Tasks
A yearly comprehensive check is critical for both equipment longevity and water safety.
Water Quality Testing
Test your water for coliform bacteria and nitrate annually, and more often if someone in the household is pregnant, infants drink the water, or you notice taste/odor changes. Send samples to a certified lab for accurate results.
Pressure Tank Inspection
Check the tank’s air charge and look for signs of waterlogging. If you have a bladder or diaphragm tank, measure the air pressure with the pump off and the tank drained of water to ensure it matches the manufacturer’s recommended precharge (typically 2 psi below cut-in pressure).
Wellhead and Casing Inspection
Make sure the well cap is intact and sealed. Inspect the concrete pad or pit for cracks, debris, or signs of animals. Any breach increases the risk of contamination.
Every 2–3 Years: Professional Checks
Some tests and inspections require professional tools and expertise.
Pump and Well Performance Testing
A licensed well contractor can measure static water level, pumping water level, and drawdown to assess your well yield and pump performance. If performance is below expectations, they can test for obstructions, worn impellers, or a deteriorating well.
Replacing Wear Items
Pressure switches, capacitors, start relays, and check valves are common wear items. Replacing them proactively every few years can prevent inconvenient failures.
Every 5–10 Years: Deeper Inspections and Planning
As your system ages, plan for more in-depth evaluation.
Video Well Inspection
A camera inspection of the well casing can reveal blockages, corrosion, or buildup that impair performance. This helps decide whether rehabilitation (e.g., shock chlorination or redeveloping the well) or a new pump/well is necessary.
Pump Replacement Considerations
Evaluate the pump’s efficiency and history of repairs. Pumps typically last 10–20 years depending on use and water conditions. If repair costs are approaching a new pump’s price, replacement may be the wiser long-term choice.
How to Test Pump Performance Yourself
You can do simple performance checks before calling a professional. Two common tests are flow rate and cycle timing.
Flow Rate (Bucket Method)
- Turn off any automatic water-using appliances.
- Open an outdoor spigot fully and measure the volume over a timed interval (e.g., collect for 60 seconds).
- Calculate gallons per minute (GPM) by multiplying the collected volume by (60 ÷ seconds collected). This gives you a rough estimate of pump output and helps detect declines from expected performance.
Cycle Timing and Drawdown
- Record the time it takes for the pump to run from cut-in to cut-out (pump run time).
- Longer run times with reduced flow or shorter rapid cycles both indicate issues—either a failing pump or a waterlogged pressure tank.
Pressure Tank Maintenance and Troubleshooting
The pressure tank reduces pump cycling and stabilizes pressure. Neglecting it is a common cause of short cycling and pump wear.
Bladder and Diaphragm Tanks
If your system has a bladder or diaphragm tank, check the air charge with the pump off and water drained from the tank. Use a tire gauge on the Schrader valve and set the air pressure 2 psi below the cut-in pressure of your pump.
Waterlogged Tanks
A waterlogged tank causes short cycling and frequent pump starts. Symptoms include the pump running more often and delivering less water. To correct this, drain the tank and recharge the air, or replace the bladder if it failed.
Troubleshooting Common Problems
Quickly identifying a problem saves time and prevents damage. The table below lists common issues, possible causes, and suggested actions.
| Symptom | Likely Causes | What You Can Do |
|---|---|---|
| Pump cycles rapidly (short cycling) | Waterlogged pressure tank, bad pressure switch, incorrect tank precharge | Check tank air pressure; replace bladder; inspect/replace switch |
| Low flow but pump runs normally | Clogged intake, worn impeller, low well water level | Check screen and filters; test well yield; call pro for pump inspection |
| Pump runs but no water | Bad check valve, pipe break, pump failure | Inspect for leaks, check valves and plumbing; call pro if pump is damaged |
| Loud or unusual noise | Air in line, failing motor bearings, cavitation | Check for air leaks; have motor bearings inspected and replaced if needed |
| Discolored or foul water | Bacterial contamination, iron/manganese, disturbed sediments | Test water; sanitize well; consider filtration for minerals |
| High electric bills | Motor inefficiency, frequent cycling | Check tank and pressure switch; test motor current draw; consider pump replacement |
Cleaning and Sanitizing Your Well
Occasional disinfection removes bacteria introduced during maintenance or storms. You should sanitize after well construction, repairs, or if tests show contamination.
Shock Chlorination Process (Basic Outline)
- Calculate the volume of water in your well and system.
- Use household bleach (unscented) at the proper concentration—follow guidelines or consult a professional.
- Turn off the pump, add the chlorine solution at the wellhead, and circulate the water through the system.
- Let the chlorine sit for the recommended contact time (commonly 12–24 hours).
- Flush the distribution lines until chlorine is mostly gone and retest the water. Because mistakes can occur with concentration and contact time, consider hiring a professional for shock treatment if you’re unsure.
Winter Care for Your Well Pump
Cold weather can damage above-ground components and cause frozen lines, leading to pump strain or failure.
Protecting Your System from Freezing
Insulate exposed pipes and fittings in the pump house or well pit. Use heat tape on vulnerable sections and ensure the pump house door is sealed. For pumps in shallow pits, consider installing insulation or adding heat sources that comply with electrical safety codes.
Handling Flooding and Surface Water
If your well is prone to surface water infiltration during storms, take steps to raise the surrounding grade or improve drainage. Surface water can carry contaminants into the well.
Electrical Issues and Controls
Many pump failures stem from electrical problems. Monitoring electrical performance helps you catch issues early.
Breakers, Capacitors, and Controls
If the pump trips the breaker, it could be a short or overload. A multimeter can show voltage issues. Hard-start capacitors and relays wear out and often cause slow starts or motor overheating; swapping them out is relatively inexpensive.
When to Call an Electrician
If you see charred wiring, repeated breaker trips, or inconsistent voltage at the pump, stop and call a licensed electrician or well tech. Electricity around water is hazardous.
When to Call a Professional
Some issues require professional expertise and specialized equipment. Call a licensed well contractor or pump technician if you:
- Cannot restore water after basic checks.
- Suspect the pump is failing or the well yield is decreasing.
- Need a camera inspection or deep cleaning or rehabilitation.
- Face electrical problems beyond simple resets or fuse changes.
- Detect contamination that requires remediation beyond shock chlorination.
Cost Estimates for Common Maintenance and Repairs
Costs vary widely by region and pump type, but these ballpark figures help you plan. Prices are estimates and can change with market conditions.
| Task | Typical Cost Range (USD) |
|---|---|
| Annual water test (basic) | $30–$100 |
| Pressure switch replacement | $75–$250 (parts + labor) |
| Pressure tank replacement | $300–$1,200 depending on size/type |
| Well chlorination (professional) | $150–$400 |
| Pump motor start capacitor replacement | $50–$150 |
| Submersible pump replacement | $800–$3,000+ (depends on depth and pump) |
| Well camera inspection | $300–$800 |
| Well rehabilitation / redevelopment | $500–$3,000+ |
Record Keeping: Your Well Maintenance Log
Keeping a detailed log helps detect trends and supports better decisions about repairs and replacements. Record:
- Dates and results of water tests.
- Pressure readings and tank air charge.
- Any repairs, parts replaced, and costs.
- Pump run times and abnormal behaviors.
- Professional service details and recommendations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Providing quick answers to common concerns helps you act confidently when problems arise.
How often should I test my well water?
Test for bacteria and nitrates at least once a year; test more often if someone in the household is at higher risk, water appearance or taste changes, or after any well work.
Can you maintain a well pump yourself?
You can perform basic checks, clean debris, check pressure, and replace small parts like a pressure switch if you’re comfortable and follow safety protocols. For electrical work, deep troubleshooting, or pump removal, call a professional.
How long does a well pump last?
A well-maintained pump often lasts 10–20 years, depending on water quality, usage, and how often it cycles. Replacing tanks and switch components as needed helps extend pump life.
What causes a well to run dry?
Extended drought, increased withdrawals, a clogged screen, or a failing pump intake can reduce available water. Professional testing will determine if the well yield has declined.
How can I prevent contamination?
Keep the well cap secure, maintain proper grading and drainage around the wellhead, avoid storing chemicals near the well, and follow sanitary practices when working on the system.
Final Checklist
Use this quick checklist to help you stay on top of maintenance. Refer to your maintenance log and consult professionals for tasks beyond your comfort level.
| Frequency | Tasks |
|---|---|
| Weekly | Visual check for leaks, listen for unusual pump sounds |
| Monthly | Check pressure gauge, inspect wellhead, review water appearance |
| Quarterly | Inspect wiring and pressure switch, basic water odor/taste check |
| Annually | Water laboratory test, tank air charge check, wellhead inspection, full electrical check |
| Every 2–3 years | Professional yield/drawdown test, replace worn components |
| Every 5–10 years | Video inspection, consider pump rehab or replacement |
You’ll get the best value and reliability from your well pump when you combine regular DIY checks with professional inspections at the recommended intervals. Keep a log, follow safety guidelines, and address small issues before they grow into costly emergencies. If you have any specific symptoms or want help building a tailored maintenance plan for your pump and well, you can describe your system and I’ll help you prioritize next steps.