Has your well pump stopped working? Good news: you don’t need to purchase a new one just yet. According to Gary’s Pump Service in Danbury, CT, you may be able to fix the problem yourself. Just follow these four steps, as outlined by the home water system experts themselves. 

1. Power

Lack of power is the most common problem that home water systems face. So before doing anything else, you’ll want to verify that you didn’t inadvertently trip the circuit breaker. This can occur after an increase in power usage or a power surge. First, locate the service panel for your well pump. Then, switch the circuit breaker off and then on again. If that doesn’t fix the issue, move onto the next step.

2. Pressure Switch

There should be a small box situated between your well pump and pressure tank. Inside, you’ll find the pressure switch. This device is designed to keep the home water system from continuously pumping water in the event of a pipe break. Too much draw can trip the switch, shutting the system down.

You’ll know it’s tripped if the switch itself is parallel to the ground. To reset it, close all the water valves leading to your system. Then, gently lift the handle to a 45-degree angle or until it engages. Allow the pressure tank to refill and, finally, reopen the valves.

3. Pressure Tank

If resetting the pressure switch doesn’t fix your water well issue, you’ll want to verify that the pressure tank itself is functional. This device needs to have the right air pressure inside it. Otherwise, it cannot properly communicate with the pressure switch. Find the air fill valve atop the tank and then, using a tire pressure gauge, test the pressure in the tank. According to Gary’s Pump Service, it should be two pounds per square inch (psi) less than the setting at which the pressure switch engages.

4. Water   

Lastly, check your home water system for discolored water and abnormal odor. If either is present, your well may contain rust or corrosion. Elements like iron and manganese can wreak havoc on your home water system, coating the insides of pipes, allowing bacteria to grow, and leaving unsightly stains. Therefore, you should contact a water treatment specialist.

If these troubleshooting tips don’t work or you’re unsure of how to complete them, call Gary’s Pump Service at (203) 744-7826. Their experienced team will get your home water system back on track in no time. For more on their water well services, visit their website.