If you have a well pump in Arizona, you’re probably worried about the current drought that seems to be affecting many homeowners.

All well pump owners run the risk of dealing with a problem with their pump eventually.

However, your problem seems to be different from others.

In your case, you’ve been noticing your well pump cycles on and off rapidly.

You’re pretty certain that you have water to use, but for some reason, you don’t seem to be getting much — if any — at all.

If this is happening to you now (or you want to be prepared when it does), you’ve come to the right place to find out why.

Read on to find out more!

Why Your Well Pump Cycles on and off Rapidly

There are several reasons why your well pump could be short cycling.

Here are some of the more prominent ones and some ways to fix them.

1. There’s a Lack of Air Charge

One of the most common causes your pump could be cycling rapidly is because there’s a lack of air change within the water tank.

This problem tends to happen quite often on older models or non-bladder-style tanks found on many Arizona wells.

To fix this, you can try to drain the water from the tank and let the air reenter the tank.

Alternatively, you might need to repair the tank air volume control so it can do its job properly.

2. The Control Switch Is Failing

Another common problem is that the control switch on the well pump might be failing.

A control switch helps to regulate when the pump activates and how much water it draws.

However, whether it’s from years of running on your pump or from defects in the system, a control switch is bound to fail eventually.

The easiest solution is to replace the control switch.

However, there’s a chance that the small tubing connected to the switch has been clogged and is causing failure, so make sure to check it as well.

3. The Water Supply Pipes Are Blocked

Lastly, it could be that the supply pipes themselves are clogged and that water can’t pass through successfully.

The best way to check for this is to have a look at the water filter.

If it’s dirty or blocked, you should replace it to restore the pump’s functions.

4. Faulty Check Valve

A faulty check valve in your well pump system can disrupt the smooth operation of the entire setup, leading to rapid cycling on and off.

Check valves are crucial components that prevent water from flowing back into the well once it has been pumped out.

When this valve malfunctions, it allows water to flow back, causing the pump to work harder and cycle more frequently.

This not only puts a strain on the pump but also increases energy consumption and wear and tear on the system.

Moreover, a faulty check valve can result in decreased water pressure in your pipes as water constantly backflows, reducing overall efficiency.

The continuous cycling on and off of the well pump due to this issue can also lead to premature failure and costly repairs if left unaddressed.

To prevent these issues, regular maintenance checks should be conducted to ensure that all components of your well pump system are functioning properly, including checking for any signs of a faulty check valve.

5. Pump Size Mismatch

One common reason for your well pump to cycle on and off rapidly is a pump size mismatch.

This occurs when the pump installed is either too large or too small for the well system’s water demands.

If the pump is too big, it will quickly draw water from the well and trigger the pressure switch to shut off, resulting in rapid cycling.

Conversely, a pump that is too small may struggle to meet the demand of water needed, causing frequent restarts.

A pump size mismatch can lead to inefficient operation and premature wear on the pump components.

It can also result in fluctuating water pressure and potential damage to both the pump and the well system.

It is crucial to ensure that your well pump matches your household’s water usage needs to avoid unnecessary stress on the system and maintain a consistent flow of water without rapid cycling interruptions.

Consider consulting with a professional to properly size your well pump for optimal performance and longevity.

We’ll Take Care Of Your Well

Now that you know why your well pump cycles on and off rapidly, you’ll want to find a professional in Arizona that can take care of your well problems and get you back on track to clean water.

You won’t have to look any further than us.

Our company has been a leader in the industry for generations, and we continue to do our job right for all of our clients.

We offer well pump installations and repairs for both residential and commercial locations, so you know you’re in good hands when you choose us.

Make sure to take a look around our site to see what we can offer you, and don’t hesitate to reach out to us whenever you need to call a pro for your services.

We look forward to helping you!


Do you need to have your residential or commercial well inspection services in Casa Grande, Scottsdale, Wickenberg, Phoenix (or beyond)? Call Pump It Up Pump Services, Inc. and let one of our professionals answer your water well questions. Call 623-582-5069 now! Or request service online here.

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