3 Typical (And Repairable) Forms Of Pump Failure
Residential well pump systems are more complex than municipal water systems. A typical municipal system may run directly into your home from the meter, or you may need a pressure regulator. On the other hand, a residential well system includes a pump, pressure switch, pressure tank, and various assorted hardware, creating several possible failure points.
While submersible pumps are generally durable, they can fail. This situation often occurs when a pump has reached the end of its lifespan. However, there are certain situations where it may make sense to repair your pump. Below are three forms of pump failure that you can often resolve without buying a new pump.
1. Clogged Screen
Your pump screen is the first line of defense against sediment and other debris that can accumulate at the bottom of the well. Correctly installed pumps typically sit well above the bottom of a well, usually by ten feet or more, but sediment can still reach the pump's intake. The pump can pull in mud, heavy debris, or even vegetation in a worst-case scenario.
Modern pumps include a foot valve that prevents water from flowing back into the wall. This design ensures the pump remains primed, but it also means that there's no straightforward way to clear a clog in the intake screen. Clearing a significant clog usually involves pulling the pump. You will also need a well expert to determine why the screen clogged in the first place and resolve any underlying issues.
2. Faulty Foot Valve
The foot valve that keeps your pump primed is another potential source of failure. When a foot valve fails, water will drip back into the well. Not only can this allow your pump to lose its prime, but it will also continually reduce water pressure in your home. As a result, you may notice reduced water pressure and frequent pump cycling, even when you aren't using any water.
Although repairing a faulty foot valve will require you to remove the pump from the well, you won't need to replace the entire submersible unit. Note that a failing foot valve is more than just an inconvenience. Operating a pump without priming it can cause substantial damage to the motor, so it's crucial to replace a defective foot valve as soon as you can.
3. Corroded or Damaged Wiring
Residential pumps use an insulated drop cable to deliver power, ground, and control wires from your home to the pump. Although these drop cables are waterproof, it is possible for damage to expose the wires to moisture can ultimately result in continuity problems. Faulty wiring can produce numerous symptoms, including pump short cycling or a pump that won't turn on at all.
Fortunately, checking the wiring on your pump is something that an experienced plumber can do before pulling the pump. If they suspect a problem, they will need to remove the drop cable to replace it or repair the affected section with a specialized pump wire splice.
Contact a well pump repair service for more information.