Can a well pump just stop working?

Author: Clay Morar Sr.  |  Last update: Monday, December 1, 2025

Equipment problems are the most common cause of well pump failure. There are many working parts to a well pump system that could cause a pump to stop working, and the failure of one part can cause the entire system to fail.

Why did my well pump suddenly stop working?

  • There are a number of possibilities:
  • Dry well - not enough water available to supply your needs
  • Plugged suction - debris is blocking the water entry into the pump.
  • Mechanical problems - motor not turning up to speed, motor running normally but the coupling to the pump is sheared, eroded or damaged impeller.

What would cause a water pump to not kick on?

Pump Won't Start

There are several reasons why a booster pump doesn't start including a lack of power, water in the break tank, tripping, sensor failure, problems with the control panel and motor failure. Firstly if there is a power cut then the pumps won't run and there will be no water delivered.

Why is my water suddenly not working well?

  • Local Water Supply Issues : There might be a water main break or repairs in your area.
  • Valves : Ensure that the main water shut-off valve and any individual valves for your fixtures are open.
  • Clogged Pipes
  • Water Heater Problems
  • Frozen Pipes
  • Leaking or Burst Pipes
  • Plumbing Issues

How do you reset a well pump?

Hold the reset lever in the start position until the pressure builds up and the gauge reads over 40 PSI; then let it return to the AUTO position. The pump should now run on its own and continue until the pressure reaches the cut out setting, (usually between 50 - 60 PSI), and then shut off.

Troubleshoot: Water Well Pump Won't Shut Off

How do you know if your well pump is burnt out?

One of the most common indicators of a failing well pump is fluctuation in water pressure. Water pressure issues can result from a number of factors, including scaling inside your pipes from hard water, bacterial buildup, low water levels at the well, or a pressure tank issue.

Why won't my water pump turn on?

Inspect your breaker box and see if the breaker has tripped, and if it has, then reset it and you should restore power to the pump. If the breaker trips again, then there is an electrical or mechanical issue with the water pump, which will require a professional plumber. Ensure the “on” switch is engaged.

Why have I got no water coming from my well?

Check the well pressure gauge.

Go to your pressure tank and look for the gauge. If it reads zero, you have confirmation that the problem is coming straight from your well water system-either your well itself isn't producing water, or your well pump is not working properly.

How long do well pumps last?

The average lifespan of a well pump is 15-25 years, and you will typically start to notice more issues with your pump as it ages like an increase in repairs, changes in water pressure or increasing utility costs. At a point, the cost of replacement will outweigh repairing your well pump.

Who do you call to fix a well pump?

However, it's always a good idea to hire a certified plumber to repair or replace well pumps and water pumps. Certified professionals are far more likely to get the job done correctly and prevent future issues, which is especially important for ensuring access to clean water for your home.

Why is my pump suddenly not working?

This can be caused by various issues, including a broken impeller, a loss of power, or a clogged filter. Pump failures can lead to severe consequences, such as flooding, water damage or complete failure of the piping system, so it is essential to take steps to prevent them.

Can a water pump suddenly fail?

In some cases, the water pump can maintain this type of operation for weeks or months, or even longer, or it could fail immediately after by seizing up.

How much does a new well pump cost?

Because of this, the range is $2,500 to $17,000. These costs would include all equipment, material and labor to install a basic well pump all the way to a high capacity deep well installation.

What is the most common problem of a water pump?

Water pumps are essential for various applications, but they can also experience common problems affecting their performance and reliability. Common problems include overheating, leakage, low water pressure, noisy operation, and cavitation.

Why would a well pump go out?

Water Quality - A well pump can prematurely fail if you have poor water quality. Minerals can clog up the pump and cause it to burn out. Bacteria can build up a slime that can also clog up the mechanics. The well liner should be checked, as that's your best protection against corrosion.

When a pump stops, the first place to check is the?

Power Source If your pump has stopped working, or is not operating to the levels you expect, it could be a power issue. Look at the factory specifications for your pump and ensure that it is receiving the correct electrical power supply in order to work properly.

Do well pumps just stop working?

There are several reasons why your home's water system might have suddenly stopped working. Most often, it's because something is wrong with the well pump. While the average life span of a well pump is 12 to 18 years, it has many components that could fail and cause the well to stop delivering water to your home.

How often should I flush my well pressure tank?

The tanks should be flushed semi-annually to remove accumulated sediments by opening the tank drain valve. These sediments could harbor and shield harmful microbes from chlorination should the well and home plumbing system require disinfection.

How do you tell if you need a new well pump?

5 Common Indicators of a Faulty Water Well Pump
  1. You Have No Water. If you have no water at all when you turn on your faucet or flush the toilet, there's definitely something wrong with your well pump. ...
  2. Fluctuating Water Pressure. ...
  3. Spitting Faucets. ...
  4. Boiling Hot Showers. ...
  5. Increase in Electric Bills.

Why did my water stop working all of a sudden?

If your water suddenly stops running, the first thing you should do is not panic. Common reasons for the water to shut off include a closed valve, a water heater malfunction, leaky pipe, or an issue with your water supply.

How to tell if your well pump is bad?

Some of the most common indicators of a faulty well pump and pressure tank include:
  1. Fluctuations in Water Pressure. ...
  2. Noisy Pressure Tank or Clicking Sounds. ...
  3. Spitting Faucets. ...
  4. Scalding Shower Water. ...
  5. High Electric Bills.

How to get a well working again?

Repair & Flushing
  1. Clean. Remove any visible mud, sediment, and other debris from the well casing, cap, and other accessible components. ...
  2. Re-grade. If the ground around the well is sloped down towards it, re-grade it so surface water flows away from the well casing. ...
  3. Start pump. ...
  4. Flush.

Why did the water pump suddenly stop working?

Pump impellers and seals may fail and foreign matter and debris from the tank can clog the pump internals. Low water levels in the tank can also cause run dry failure. If your pump/motor system stops running you may have an electrical fault or foreign matter seizure. These problems are often economically repairable.

Why would I have no water with a well?

Whether you have a bedrock or shallow well, water is drawn from within the earth to your house by a water pump. Malfunctions can happen due to a blown circuit, power outage or a broken component. Homeowners can begin troubleshooting at the well pump power switch. Check to see if there's power flowing to the system.

Can a well pump be repaired?

Your well pump draws water from the ground and transports it to your house through a series of pipes. Without a functional well pump, you won't have fresh water for your home. When their well pump malfunctions, well owners have two options – they can either repair or replace it.

Previous article
Does Goodman use R32 refrigerant?
Next article
Which is healthier, Teflon or ceramic?