How do I know if my well pump is bad?

You know your well pump is bad by symptoms like low/no water pressure, sputtering faucets, a constantly running pump, strange grinding/hissing noises, dirty water with sand, or a sudden spike in your electric bill, all indicating the pump is struggling to move water or working too hard due to a failing component or low water levels. While these signs point to issues, they can also signal problems with the pressure tank or other parts, so professional diagnosis is key.

How do I know if my well pump needs to be replaced?

You need a new well pump if you experience no water, low pressure, or erratic flow, your faucets spit air, the pump makes loud noises (grinding, rattling), your energy bills spike, or the water looks/smells dirty/gritty; these signs point to a failing pump struggling with low water levels, leaks, or internal wear, often requiring professional diagnosis for repair or replacement.
 

How to test if your well pump is bad?

To test a bad well pump, look for signs like low/no water, sputtering faucets, constant cycling, or dirty water, then check your pressure tank (should sound hollow, not thuddy/heavy) and pressure switch (look for spark when flicking contacts) for simple fixes, but for electrical issues (voltage/resistance) or pump-in-well problems, a professional diagnosis with a multimeter is usually needed. 

What is the life expectancy of a well pump?

A well pump typically lasts 8 to 15 years, but with good maintenance and usage, many can reach 20 to 30 years, with factors like pump quality, water sediment, and duty cycle (how often it runs) significantly impacting its lifespan, with more frequent use and hard water shortening life. 

How do I test my water pump?

Diagnosing a failing water pump often involves:

1. Visual Inspection: Checking for leaks, corrosion, or damage.
2. Testing Coolant Flow: Mechanics may test the flow of coolant through the system.
3. Belt and Pulley Check: Ensuring the water pump's drive belt and pulleys are in good condition.

Well Pump Trouble Signs & How To Replace A Defective Well Pump

What is the average cost to replace a water pump?

Replacing a car's water pump typically costs between $400 and $1,000, with an average often cited around $800, covering parts ($200-$400) and labor ($225-$517+), but costs can rise significantly for complex vehicles, especially if the timing belt needs replacement simultaneously, potentially exceeding $1,200 for the combined job, according to sources like Kelley Blue Book, ConsumerAffairs, and Hella Water. 

What's the average cost to replace a well pump?

Most well pump replacement projects fall between $975 and $2,575, but many factors can add additional costs. A small hand pump can cost as little as $200, while a high-end constant-pressure well pump could set you back as much as $5,000.

What happens when a well pump goes bad?

When a well pump goes bad, you'll experience no water, low pressure, spitting faucets, dirty/bad-tasting water, or the pump running constantly, often due to worn parts, electrical issues, or a failing pressure tank, leading to a major disruption in your home's water supply and potentially higher bills from overworking components.
 

How many hours does it take to replace a well pump?

Whether you're dealing with a submersible pump (approx. 4 to 6 hours for replacement), or a jet pump (about 2 to 4 hours thanks to easier access and simpler installation procedures), it's important to have a clear picture of what to expect.

How to test a well pump without pulling it?

To test a well pump without pulling it, start at the pressure switch and control box for electrical issues (bulging capacitor, loose wires), check the pressure tank's air charge, and then use a multimeter for voltage/resistance checks at the switch and wellhead, listening for pump operation when you turn on a faucet; a low amp draw or no water with power indicates a potential well/pump problem, while a tripped breaker points to a short in the wiring or pump.
 

Can a water pump fail without leaking?

Yes, a water pump can fail internally without leaking any coolant, often due to a worn or broken impeller, a loose pulley, or a failing bearing, leading to overheating or poor heater performance because coolant isn't circulating, even though there are no visible drips. Common culprits include plastic impellers cracking, metal fins corroding away, or the impeller spinning freely on the shaft, all preventing proper fluid movement. 

How do I reset my well pump?

To reset a well pump, find the pressure switch (a gray box near the tank) and manually engage the lever, holding it until the pressure gauge reads above 20-30 PSI, then release; this is common after power outages, but if it doesn't restart, you may have a deeper issue, so check the breaker and be cautious around electrical components.
 

How to check to see if a well pump is working?

To tell if your well pump is running, listen for a low hum, watch the pressure gauge (it drops as water is used and rises as the pump runs), or check for a light/meter on the control box; you can also feel for vibration or water flow at a faucet to confirm. For a definitive check, look for a spark or listen for the click when gently flicking the pressure switch contacts (use caution!).
 

Do plumbers replace well pumps?

Well pumps are intricate pieces of equipment. Hiring licensed and insured professionals like Mr. Rooter Plumbing® for well water pump replacement and installation is best to ensure safety and efficiency.

How often should I service a well pump?

Most residential well pump systems should be serviced once per year. This annual checkup allows technicians to identify and correct problems early, long before they affect your water supply.

How can I test if my water pump is bad?

Symptoms of a bad water pump include engine overheating, coolant leaks (puddles, steam from hood), and unusual noises (whining, grinding, squealing) from the front of the engine, often with a fluctuating temperature gauge or warning lights, indicating a failure to circulate coolant effectively, which can lead to severe engine damage.
 

How do I know if I need a new well pump?

You need a new well pump if you experience no water, low pressure, or erratic flow, your faucets spit air, the pump makes loud noises (grinding, rattling), your energy bills spike, or the water looks/smells dirty/gritty; these signs point to a failing pump struggling with low water levels, leaks, or internal wear, often requiring professional diagnosis for repair or replacement.
 

What is the average lifespan of a well pump?

A well pump's average lifespan is typically 8 to 15 years, but with excellent maintenance and ideal conditions, many last 20 to 30 years, while poor water quality or heavy use (frequent cycling) can shorten it to under a decade. Factors like sediment in the water, proper pressure tank maintenance, and pump quality significantly influence longevity. 

Will homeowners insurance cover a new well pump?

Home insurance may cover your well pump if it's damaged by a covered peril, like fire or vandalism, but not if it breaks down due to something like mechanical or electrical failure.

What are common well pump problems?

Common well pump problems include low pressure, the pump cycling on/off too frequently (short cycling), running constantly, making strange noises, or delivering dirty/no water, often caused by issues like pressure tank failure, leaks, clogged screens, pressure switch problems, low well levels, or electrical faults, with many requiring professional help for diagnosis and repair.
 

Can you replace a well pump yourself?

Yes, you can replace a well pump yourself, especially with modern poly pipe making it easier, but it's a physically demanding, complex job with electrical risks, best for deep wells if you have experience or are confident after a pro diagnosis; for very deep wells (over 200 ft) or if unsure, hiring a professional is safer, ensures proper performance, and avoids costly mistakes like short circuits or damaging components, with DIY savings potentially significant, notes rpswaterpumps.com, Mother Earth News, and Quora. 

How much does a new well pump cost installed?

A new well pump installation typically costs $900 to $4,000, with most homeowners spending $1,000 to $2,500 for standard submersible or jet pumps, including labor, but costs vary significantly by pump type (shallow jet, deep submersible, solar, constant pressure) and well depth, with some complex systems exceeding $5,000. Expect $300-$1,500 for the pump itself and another $500-$1,500 for professional installation and electrical work.
 

What happens when a water pump is going bad?

If you notice rising engine temperatures, visible coolant leaks, unusual whining noises near the front of the engine, or steam coming from the radiator area, the pump may be failing. A damaged pump can also cause inconsistent cabin heating, since the heater core relies on proper coolant flow.

How many days does it take to replace a water pump?

The time it takes to replace a water pump can vary significantly based on the type of pump, its location, and the complexity of your plumbing system. Generally, the replacement process can take anywhere from two hours to a full day.