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Well Systems

How Do I Know If My Well Pump Is Failing?

The most common signs of a failing well pump are no water at the tap, sudden loss of pressure, pump running constantly, sputtering or air in the lines, and the pump tripping the circuit breaker. If your pump is over 10 years old and showing any of these, it needs professional diagnosis.

Warning Signs — Ranked by Urgency

No water at any tap

Emergency

Complete pump failure or loss of prime. Call immediately — 24/7 emergency service available.

Pump tripping the circuit breaker

Urgent

Motor drawing too much current — often a sign of a seized motor or failing capacitor.

Pump runs constantly and never shuts off

Urgent

Pump can't build pressure — could be a failed pressure switch, waterlogged tank, or pump losing prime.

Sputtering faucets or air in the water

Soon

Pump is losing prime or the well water level is dropping below the pump intake.

Sudden drop in water pressure

Soon

Worn impellers, partial blockage, or the pump is struggling to keep up with demand.

Unusually high electric bills

Monitor

A struggling pump draws more current. Compare to prior months — a 20%+ spike warrants inspection.

Visible rust or sediment in water

Monitor

Pump components corroding internally. Common with acidic or iron-rich well water.

Repair vs. Replace

A capacitor or control box issue can often be repaired for a few hundred dollars. A burned-out motor on a pump over 10 years old usually makes full replacement the better value — repair costs can approach replacement cost, and the pump will likely fail again soon.

We'll give you an honest assessment and a written estimate before any work begins.

Have more questions? Browse our full FAQ or contact us directly.

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