Well pumps ensure your home maintains continued access to clean water. They push water from wells into secure storage tanks using a pressure tank system. As the water gets pumped into the tank, the air pressure increases until it reaches the level that pushes water into your home’s plumbing system.
Your well pump needs regular maintenance to stay in peak condition. By understanding how to know if your well pump is bad, you can determine when to find a replacement or repair. That way, you can ensure your home has consistent and clean water.
Here are seven signs you need well pump repairs or a replacement.
1. No Water in Your Home
The best indicator of a well-functioning well pump is a steady stream of water throughout your home. If you turn on faucets and no water pours out, you might need to fix a component of your well pump. The water tank could have problems with the air pressure, resulting in a lack of water transfer.
However, other issues could also result in no water. It’s best to troubleshoot this problem before committing to a water pump repair or replacement. For instance, your well might fail to receive power from your electricity source. Make sure to flip your circuit breaker to the proper status. In addition, a plumbing issue like a burst pipe might prevent water from moving into your home.
If you rule out other sources of the problem, your well pump might be the culprit.
2. Decrease in Water Pressure
A decrease in water pressure can also signal your well pump needs repairs. Your shower or sinks might provide a different intensity or quantity than usual. This reduction could indicate your pump cannot withdraw as much water. You might also need to invest in a larger well pump to meet your household’s needs.
The decreased water pressure could mean your pump’s pressure tank has a hole or other problem. Or, buildup in your pipes might restrict water from moving powerfully. A plumber or professional technician can help you diagnose the problem and recommend the best next steps.
3. Air Bubbles
Another sign of a malfunctioning well pump is air bubbles. You might turn on a faucet and notice the water comes out unsteadily. Instead of a smooth, consistent flow, the water has gaps and patches. Air bubbles signify inefficiency, indicating your pump is pulling in the air instead of water alone.
Cracks in the pipes might cause the pump to pull up air. Or, your well pump might be resting above the water line, causing problems with water retrieval. Evaluate the well pump’s condition as soon as possible to resolve the issue. A plumber can identify the cause and help you find the best solution.
4. Dirty Water
Next, dirty water is a key indicator that something is amiss with your well pump. If your home’s water contains sand, silt or other sediment types, you should inspect it immediately. It might also be muddy or cloudy. Consuming dirty water can be harmful to your and your family’s health.
Sediment-filled water is often a sign your pump is too large for your well. Instead of pulling up water, it retrieves additional silt and dirt. In this case, you probably need to resize your pump and find a more suitable one for your area. Or, you might have placed the pump too far down the well, causing it to pull in sediment more easily. In addition, the pump contains a filter screen to keep the water pure. The filter might have become damaged during use, resulting in contaminated water.
You might need a new water filtration system, a fixed water pipe or various other solutions to resolve this issue. Avoid drinking or using dirty water until a plumber or other professional can inspect your pump.
5. Pump Constantly Runs
A continuously running pump also demonstrates an issue. Typically, a constantly working pump means it struggles to work efficiently. This behavior might mean:
- Your suction line is leaking.
- Your pressure control switch is working incorrectly.
- Your pump is wearing down.
- Your other water fixtures, like a toilet or faucet, have leaks.
Overall, a continuously working fixture typically requires a replacement or repair. A professional technician can evaluate the pump’s severity and recommend the ideal repairs.
6. Pump Makes Odd Noises
Well pumps should perform their work with minimal or no sound. However, sounds like gurgling, hissing, whining and clicking can indicate a problem.
These noises usually mean a component is wearing down or not functioning correctly. You likely need to replace or repair it to resolve the issue.
7. Higher Utility Bills
Lastly, increased utility bills can signal something wrong with your well pump. Malfunctions cause the pump to lose efficiency. To make up for this loss, the pump tries to work harder, straining your power systems. If you’re still using the same amount of water and electricity but notice your bills rising, it could indicate a problem with your pump.
What Is the Average Cost of a New Well Pump?
It’s best to repair or replace a faulty well pump as soon as possible. That way, you can ensure your home has consistent access to safe water. While a well pump replacement might be costly, it’s often necessary to fully resolve issues.
One of your first considerations for the process is likely the cost of well pump repair or replacement. On average, a replacement well pump can cost between $1,000 and $2,750. You might also have to pay additional fees for installation. The expense can vary depending on factors like these.
- Pump type: Various well pumps are available. Each option varies by price, impacting your repair or replacement costs. For instance, you might use a submersible pump, which is completely sealed and can create fast pressure. Or, you might have a solar pump, which uses renewable energy to save you money. Depending on your pump’s damages, you might also want to install a new type.
- Well size: Your well’s size and depth also affect the cost of well pump replacement. It’s easier to install a new pump in a shallow well, so service fees might be lower. Often, deep wells require heavier-duty pumps and higher installation costs.
Schedule an Appointment With Dick Ray Master Plumber Today
If you notice your well pump behaving strangely, it might be time for a repair or replacement. The sooner you address the problem, the sooner you can return to a steady water supply.
Choose Dick Ray Master Plumber today for all your well pump service needs. Our expert team can inspect your pump and identify the issue. Then, we can help you through the replacement or repair process. We also offer many other plumbing services and are ready to assist you with any plumbing-related issues.
To get started with Dick Ray Master Plumber, schedule an appointment with us today.
