A well pump is a little powerhouse that keeps water flowing in your home, but sometimes they can be a bit… finicky. Don’t worry, though! In this article, your Benjamin Franklin plumbing professionals will walk you through some simple checks you can do when things don’t seem quite right. We’ll cover what you can handle on your own and when it’s time to call in the cavalry (aka a pro) at Service Minds Benjamin Franklin in Orlando, FL.
Checking Your Well Pump
Does Your Well Pump Have Power?
Before we start poking around the pump itself, let’s make sure it’s actually getting juice:
- Power Switch: Find that power switch (usually hanging out near the pressure tank) and make sure it’s flipped on.
- Check the Breaker: If the switch is on but nothing’s happening, take a stroll over to your breaker box. Sometimes these pumps trip the breaker, and all you need to do is flip it back.
- A Simple Reboot: Had a power outage recently? Lightning or high winds can cause damage to your well pump. This damage might be covered under your homeowner’s insurance. Your pump might just need a little reset. Try turning it off for a few minutes, then back on. It’s like rebooting your computer, but for your well water!
Is the Pressure Switch On?
Another part of your well system is the pressure switch, which controls when the pump turns on and off based on water pressure levels.
- How It Works: The pressure switch detects any changes in the water pressure and then signals the pump when it needs to run.
- Signs of Trouble: If your water pressure is inconsistent or you have no water, the pressure switch could be at fault.
- Troubleshooting: One common issue is the pressure switch cycling too often. This might mean that there are dirty or worn contacts. If you’re comfortable, you can clean or replace these yourself.
Check the Pressure Tank
Your pressure tank keeps water pressure steady and prevents the well pump from running non-stop. If it’s malfunctioning, your water flow will be affected.
- Check the Tank Pressure: Turn off the pump and drain the pressure tank. Then use a tire pressure gauge to check the tank’s air pressure.
- Proper Pressure: The pressure should be about 2 PSI lower than the pump’s cut-in pressure. If it’s significantly off, you may need to adjust or replace the tank.
- Repair or Replace: If the pressure tank is faulty and cannot hold the right pressure, it might need to be repaired or replaced.
Common Problems You Can Tackle
Sometimes you can fix pump issues without pulling it out of the well (trust me, that’s a whole other adventure). Problems like airlocks, power failures, or a pump losing its prime are fairly common and can usually be handled without removing the pump. These situations often have simpler fixes.
Here are some scenarios:
Did your well pump lose its Prime?
If you’ve had a power outage, your pump might have “lost its prime.” Don’t worry, it’s not as fancy as it sounds.
For jet pumps:
- Turn off the pump.
- Find the prime plug on the pump housing and take it off.
- Use a garden hose to fill it up with water.
- Put the plug back and turn it on.
- Cross your fingers and see if that did the trick!
When to Wave the White Flag and Call a Plumbing Pro
Look, there’s no shame in knowing when to call in a pro. If you’ve tried these tricks and your pump is still not working properly, or if you need to actually remove the pump, it’s time to phone a well pump expert at Service Minds Benjamin Franklin in Orlando. They will be able to properly diagnose your well pump. It may need to be replaced, or you may just need the well pump repaired.
Removing a pump can be tricky business, especially with deeper wells. It involves heavy lifting, specialized tools, and a good bit of know-how. Plus, the pros can spot potential problems you might miss, saving you headaches down the road.
There you have it, folks! A crash course in well pump troubleshooting. Remember, a little maintenance goes a long way in keeping that water flowing. And hey, even if you end up needing to call a pro at Ben Franklin, at least now you can impress them with your pump knowledge!
Stay curious, stay handy, and keep that water flowing!