Residential: 
There is no anxiety like it: opening your faucet and nothing comes out!
Fortunately, if your water comes from a well rather than a municipal source, the problem may stem from common issues that have simple solutions!
One of the most common issues is a malfunction in the well pump.
So, why would a well pump stop working?
Finding the problem and knowing what to do is something that all well owners should know!
So, here are some of the most simple ways to check if there are any issues with your well pump and the possible reasons and solutions that accompany them.
Check The Breaker Box
The first step is to inspect the breakers.
If you have an older system, it could also be an issue with a fuse.
If you discover that one of the breakers has been tripped, it may be as simple as resetting it or replacing the faulty fuse.
However, if the breaker continues to trip after this step, the issue may have something to do with a short in the wiring or motor.
In this case, resetting it repetitively would not be a solution.
If the issue is electrical or might involve underground plumbing, it is advisable to get licensed professionals to perform these checks.
Check Pressure Guage
Knowing how to narrow down whether the problem is coming from inside the home or the actual well is to inspect the pressure gauge.
The pressure gauge should typically read between 40-60psi.
If the gauge is reading somewhere between these figures but you are still getting little to no water, then it’s likely the issue is not coming from the well.
If the pressure is low or at zero, this is an indication that something is wrong within the well’s system.
Check Pressure Switch
Another common issue that can be quickly discerned is a faulty pressure switch.
Over time, pressure switches become carbonated which can cause them to malfunction.
This can be quickly seen by black spots on the contact points.
Avoid touching the contacts as they are live!
Another issue could be corrosion or blockage that may be hindering the pressure switched response.
Again, an electrical inspection may be needed to see if there are no shorts or damage to the pump cables between the switch and the control box, etc.
If you can see any deformity on or around the pressure switch it may be time to call in a technician to inspect any deeper issues.
Why Would a Well Pump Stop Working?
The abovementioned points are only the most common issues with well pumps.
But the main answer to the question “why would a well pump stop working?” has to do with the attitude of the owner.
Well pumps often fail because of lack of maintenance or because owners try to service their own wells.
In the end, this attitude costs far more time, energy, and money in the long run than staying in contact with professionals.
Knowing the line between caring for your system personally and knowing when to call in the pros is the key to a long-lasting and healthy well system for you and your family.
But the question is…just how important is your water to you?
Do you need to have your well inspection services in New River, Cave Creek, Wickenburg, or other areas near Phoenx AZ? Call Pump It Up Pump Services, Inc. and let one of our professionals answer your water well questions. Call 623-582-5069 now!
