Low pressure on a well pump can be caused by several factors, ranging from issues with the well itself to problems with the pump, pressure tank, or plumbing system. Here’s a comprehensive look at the potential causes and solutions for low pressure on a well pump:
1. Clogged or Dirty Well Screen
The well screen (or filter) is designed to keep debris out of the pump while allowing water to flow through. Over time, the screen can become clogged with sediment, minerals, or biological growth, restricting the flow of water.
Cause:
- Sediment build-up
- Algae or bacteria growth
- Mineral deposits from hard water
Solution:
- Clean or Replace the Well Screen: Hire a professional well service to inspect and clean or replace the well screen. If the screen is seriously clogged, it may need to be replaced entirely.
- Install a Pre-Filter: Consider installing a pre-filter at the wellhead to prevent sediment from reaching the well screen in the future.
2. Low Water Levels in the Well
If the water level in the well drops too low, the pump may not be able to draw enough water, leading to a decrease in pressure.
Cause:
- Seasonal water table fluctuations (e.g., during dry spells)
- Overuse of water causing the well to run dry
- Well pump installed too deep or too shallow for the current water level
Solution:
- Check the Water Table: Use a well level indicator or have a professional check the water level in your well.
- Reduce Water Usage: Reduce water consumption, especially during dry spells, to allow the well to replenish.
- Install a Deeper Pump: If the water level has permanently dropped, it may be necessary to lower the pump to a deeper section of the well.
- Drill a New Well: In extreme cases, drilling a new well may be required if the current well’s water table has permanently lowered.
3. Pump Issues (Broken, Worn, or Faulty Pump)
The pump itself may be malfunctioning, either due to wear and tear, electrical issues, or mechanical failure. This can lead to inadequate water delivery and low pressure.
Cause:
- Motor failure
- Impeller damage or clogging
- Worn pump components
Solution:
- Inspect the Pump: Have a professional check the pump to determine if it’s operating correctly. If the motor is damaged or the pump is worn out, replacement may be necessary.
- Clean or Repair the Pump: If the pump is clogged or has mechanical issues, cleaning or repairing it may restore proper function.
4. Pressure Switch Problems
The pressure switch controls when the pump turns on and off based on the pressure in the system. If the pressure switch is faulty, it may not signal the pump to operate at the correct pressure.
Cause:
- Dirt or debris interfering with the pressure switch
- Mechanical failure of the pressure switch
- Incorrect pressure settings on the switch
Solution:
- Clean the Pressure Switch: Remove dirt or debris from the pressure switch to ensure it’s functioning correctly.
- Adjust Pressure Settings: If the pressure switch settings are too low, adjust them to ensure the pump operates at the correct pressure.
- Replace the Pressure Switch: If cleaning or adjusting the pressure switch does not resolve the issue, replacing the switch may be necessary.
5. Pressure Tank Problems
The pressure tank stores water under pressure for use when the pump is not running. If the pressure tank is faulty or not properly charged, it can cause fluctuations in water pressure.
Cause:
- Waterlogged pressure tank (tank filled with water instead of air)
- Faulty pressure tank bladder
- Incorrect air charge in the tank
Solution:
- Check the Pressure Tank: A waterlogged pressure tank occurs when the air bladder inside the tank becomes waterlogged. If this is the case, you may need to replace the bladder or the entire tank.
- Charge the Pressure Tank: If the air charge in the pressure tank is too low, use a tire inflator to add air to the tank. The recommended air pressure is typically 2 psi below the cut-in pressure of the pump.
- Replace the Pressure Tank: If the pressure tank is old or damaged, replacing it with a new one may be the best option.
6. Airlock in the System
An airlock occurs when air gets trapped in the water pipes, preventing water from flowing properly and reducing pressure.
Cause:
- Air gets trapped in the plumbing due to pump startup
- Loss of water pressure causes air to enter the system
Solution:
- Bleed the Air from the System: Open all faucets connected to the well system and let the water run to release any trapped air. This should restore normal pressure.
- Check for Leaks: Air can enter the system if there are any leaks in the plumbing. Check for any visible leaks or repair any damaged pipes.
7. Clogged or Leaking Pipes
Pipes that are clogged or leaking can reduce the water flow, leading to low pressure. Clogs can be caused by mineral deposits, rust, or debris in the pipes, while leaks allow water to escape before it reaches your faucets.
Cause:
- Sediment or mineral build-up
- Pipe corrosion, especially in older systems
- Leaking connections or joints
Solution:
- Check for Leaks: Inspect the plumbing for any visible leaks or drips. If a leak is found, it should be repaired immediately.
- Clean or Replace Clogged Pipes: If pipes are clogged with sediment or minerals, they may need to be cleaned or replaced. A professional plumber can use a snake or water jetting to clear the pipes.
- Replace Corroded Pipes: In cases of severely corroded pipes, replacing them with newer, more durable materials like PVC or PEX may be necessary.
8. Faulty Check Valve
The check valve prevents water from flowing back into the well after the pump has stopped. If the check valve is malfunctioning, water may flow back into the well, reducing the pressure in the system.
Cause:
- Wear and tear on the check valve
- Debris blocking the valve from closing properly
Solution:
- Inspect the Check Valve: Have a professional inspect the check valve to see if it’s functioning properly. If it’s damaged, it may need to be repaired or replaced.
- Clear Debris: If debris is blocking the valve, clean it to restore normal function.
9. Water Demand Exceeds Pump Capacity
If the water demand is greater than the capacity of the well pump, the system will be unable to maintain proper pressure. This can happen if multiple fixtures are being used at once, or if the pump is too small for the needs of the household.
Cause:
- Excessive water usage
- Undersized pump for the water demand
Solution:
- Stagger Water Use: Reduce simultaneous water use by staggering the operation of multiple fixtures. For example, avoid using multiple showers or washing machines at the same time.
- Upgrade the Pump: If the pump is too small for the system, it may need to be upgraded to a higher capacity pump that can meet the demand.
10. Electrical Issues
Electrical problems with the pump motor, such as faulty wiring, circuit issues, or low voltage, can cause the pump to operate inefficiently or not operate at all.
Cause:
- Faulty electrical connections
- Tripped circuit breakers or blown fuses
- Voltage drops
Solution:
- Check Circuit Breaker/Fuses: Ensure the pump’s circuit breaker is not tripped or the fuse blown. Reset the breaker or replace the fuse if needed.
- Inspect Wiring: Check for loose or damaged wiring connections to ensure proper electrical flow.
- Test Voltage: If there is a voltage issue, consult an electrician to ensure that the electrical supply to the well pump is adequate.
Conclusion
Low pressure on a well pump can stem from a variety of causes, ranging from issues with the well itself to problems with the pump, pressure tank, and plumbing. By diagnosing the issue systematically and addressing each potential cause, you can often restore normal pressure. In many cases, the assistance of a professional well service or plumber may be necessary to fully resolve the problem. Regular maintenance and periodic checks of your well system can help prevent future issues with low pressure.