No Water? Low Water Pressure? It Might Be One of These Common Well Pump Problems
- Just Better Home Services
- 4 hours ago
- 11 min read
Imagine turning on the tap and nothing comes out – or only a weak trickle. For homeowners with a private well, that frustrating scenario often points to the well pump. Your well pump is responsible for pumping water to your house and works in conjunction with a pressure tank to maintain a consistent flow. When it fails, you can lose water entirely or suffer low water pressure throughout your home.
In this post, we’ll cover common well pump issues that cause no water or low pressure, explain how to check for them, and emphasize the importance of maintenance. We’ll also cover when to call a professional well pump repair service, which is especially important in Virginia, where over 700,000 households rely on private wells for their water.
In this article:
Common Well Pump Problems: Culprits Behind Your Water Woes
Many different problems can interrupt your well water. These are the most common well pump problems that cause no water or low pressure in your system:
Power Problems: Is it Plugged In?
The Run Down: First, rule out a simple electrical issue. Like any appliance, a well pump needs electricity. A tripped breaker or blown fuse on the pump’s circuit will cut power to the pump and stop all water flow. In some cases, faulty wiring, a degraded pressure switch connection, or a bad pump motor can also be the root cause.
Symptoms: You’ll have no water at all, and the pump will be completely silent or not hum.
Self-check: Open your breaker panel and find the switch labeled for the well pump. Flip it off and back on to ensure it’s fully seated. Inspect nearby disconnect switches, outdoor boxes, or fuses for any visible signs of damage or wear. If the breaker continues to trip or a fuse blows repeatedly, do not keep resetting it—this signals a deeper issue, like a short circuit or an overloaded motor.
Warning: Never ignore electrical issues with your well pump. Repeatedly resetting a tripped breaker can cause overheating, fire hazards, or further pump damage. Always turn off the power before inspecting anything electrical. If you notice a burning smell, melted wiring, or heat near the panel or pump wiring, contact a licensed professional right away. Attempting DIY electrical work, especially on 220V systems, is dangerous and not recommended.
Long-Term Fix: If electrical issues persist, have a licensed plumber or electrician conduct a full diagnostic of your well pump circuit. This includes testing voltage at the pressure switch, inspecting wiring for damage or corrosion, and checking the integrity of the pump motor. Upgrading outdated or undersized wiring, installing a dedicated circuit with proper surge protection, or replacing worn electrical components can protect your well pump and ensure safe, consistent operation. Investing in a pump protection device—which automatically shuts off power during low voltage, power surges, or dry run conditions—can also add long-term reliability to your system.
Pressure Switch Problems: The Brain of Your System
The Run Down: The pressure switch dictates when your well pump turns on and off by sensing system pressure. A faulty or stuck switch, due to corrosion, dirty electrical contacts, or incorrect cut-in/cut-out pressure settings, can cause erratic water pressure or damage your pump. For instance, corrosion can prevent proper pump engagement, while debris can block the electrical connection. Even minor pressure setting errors can lead to the pump running too long, turning on too late, or failing to shut off.
Symptoms: The pump keeps running non-stop (even with no water demand), or the pump never starts, and pressure stays at zero. You might also see the pressure gauge fluctuating wildly or the pump cycling erratically.
Self-check: When water is used, listen for a clicking sound at the well or pump control box. After shutting off the power, you can inspect the pressure switch to ensure its electrical contacts are clean and the plastic cover moves freely.
Warning: Adjusting the switch’s large and small nuts can fine-tune the cut-in and cut-out pressures, but leave that to the professionals. Making any electrical adjustments can cause electrocution or damage your pump.
Long-Term Fix: If your pressure switch is old, corroded, or unreliable, replacing it with a new, high-quality switch rated for your pump system is the best course of action. In many cases, upgrading to a switch with a built-in low-pressure cut-off feature adds an extra layer of protection—it shuts the pump off automatically if pressure drops too low, preventing dry-run damage. To ensure proper function and longevity, have a licensed professional install and calibrate the new switch to match your system’s specs. They’ll also inspect the wiring and connections to ensure your pump operates safely and efficiently going forward.
Low Water Level in the Well: Running on Empty
The Run Down: If the water table in your well drops too low, the pump can end up drawing air instead of water. This tends to occur in dry seasons or in periods of heavy use when the well doesn’t recover fast enough. A well-running low may short-cycle (turn on and off rapidly), trying to refill the pressure tank, and can even run dry and burn out. In Virginia, groundwater levels tend to be lowest in late summer and early fall, so issues often crop up in those months.
Symptoms: Water comes and goes, and the flow might sputter or cut out under high demand. This may happen when doing laundry or using multiple faucets at once. You may also hear the pump switch short-cycling, or notice air or rusty water spitting from faucets, especially after periods of low use.
Self-check: If you suspect your well is running low, first note when symptoms appear. Are they worse after heavy water use or during dry weather? Try reducing water use for 12-24 hours to see if pressure improves. This gives your well time to recover and can indicate a water supply issue, not an equipment problem.
You can also check your system's pressure gauge if pressure drops quickly when water is in use and the pump cycles often, your well might be pulling in air due to a low water level.
If you can access your wellhead, remove the cap and listen for water re-entering the well after use (you might hear trickling or bubbling). You can also use a static water level measuring tube or device to check how far down the water level is.
Warning: If you’re seeing air bursts, rapid cycling, or a complete flow loss after use, turn off your pump at the breaker to avoid burning it out. Running a submersible pump without water can overheat the motor and ruin the pump. In many cases, these symptoms mean your well isn’t refilling fast enough to meet demand.
Long-Term Fix: If low water levels are an ongoing issue, a licensed professional can evaluate the well’s recovery rate, lower the pump deeper into the well (if possible), or recommend installing a low-water cutoff switch or float sensor. These devices protect the pump by automatically shutting it off when the water level drops too low, reducing the risk of costly damage.
Faulty Pressure Tank: The Water Storage Unit
The Run Down: Your pressure tank holds a reserve of water under air pressure. It smooths out the flow and keeps the pump from cycling too often. Inside, a rubber bladder or diaphragm separates air from water. If the tank loses its air charge (or the bladder ruptures), it becomes waterlogged. That means the pump must fill it more often to get any pressure, leading to rapid cycling and an irregular flow.
Symptoms: The pump may start short cycling, even with small uses of water. Water pressure may surge when the pump starts and then drop quickly. You might hear a “knocking” or water hammer noise when the flow stops as the tank can’t absorb the pressure.
Self-check: Listen to your pump. If it starts and stops on a minute-by-minute basis during normal use, the tank is likely at fault. You can also check the tank’s air valve (like a tire valve) after shutting off power. If water sprays out instead of air, the bladder is ruptured, and the tank must be replaced.
Warning: Ignoring short cycling rapidly wears out your pump motor. Constant on-off cycling creates excessive electrical and mechanical stress, reducing the pump's lifespan and increasing the risk of premature failure. What begins as a pressure tank problem can quickly escalate to a much more expensive pump replacement if not addressed.
Long-Term Fix: If your pressure tank is waterlogged or nearing the end of its lifespan, replacing it with a properly sized, high-quality pressure tank is the best solution. Make sure the air pressure inside the tank is correctly set to match your pump’s cut-in pressure—usually 2 psi below. Installing a tank with a high-quality internal bladder and scheduling annual pressure checks can prevent future problems and extend the life of both your tank and pump.
Clogged Pipes or Well Screen: Blocked Flow
The Run Down: Sediment, rust, or mineral deposits can clog the well screen or plumbing pipes over time. A fouled screen at the bottom of the well will reduce the flow of water entering the pump, making it work harder for less output. Inside the home, clogged pipes or fixtures—often due to iron, manganese, or hard water scale—can mimic low pump performance by restricting water flow.
Symptoms: If water pressure is low throughout your entire house, not just at one fixture, and you notice a sudden drop in flow, sediment might be loose in the pipes. If you have a whole-house filter or water softener, try bypassing it temporarily; if the pressure improves, the clog is likely in the filter. If there is no change, you'll need to investigate other potential causes.
Warning: Ignoring system buildup can strain your pump and cause premature failure. A clogged well screen makes the pump run longer with less water, leading to overheating and wear. Extreme sediment can damage pump impellers or clog fixtures and appliances. Never attempt to disassemble well components or plumbing lines without proper training, as this can cause contamination or costly leaks.
Long-Term Fix: If your home experiences sediment or mineral buildup, consider a professional well inspection and flow test to check the screen and pump intake. Sometimes, a well cleaning or screen flush can restore flow.
Installing a sediment filter or spin-down pre-filter at the main line can keep grit out of your home's plumbing.
If hard water causes scale buildup, a professionally installed water softener with routine maintenance can significantly extend the life of your pipes, fixtures, and appliances.
For older homes with galvanized plumbing, re-piping with modern materials might be the best long-term solution for chronic flow issues.
Worn-Out Pump or Motor: End of the Line
The Run Down: Well pumps don’t last forever. Most last 7–15 years, though some can go longer with proper maintenance and ideal conditions. Over time, internal components wear out, seals degrade, and corrosion may affect efficiency. As the pump ages, it may struggle to keep up with household demand or stop working altogether.
Symptoms: In advanced age, you might notice chronically low pressure, slower water flow, or intermittent supply, especially during periods of normal usage. You may also hear unusual grinding, humming, or buzzing from the pump, and water may sputter or carry more sediment than usual. A completely failed pump will result in no water at all. These signs often overlap with other system issues like short cycling or pressure tank failure, but are more persistent in an aging pump.
Self-check: If you suspect your pump is the problem, take note of how long it’s been installed—if it’s over 10 years old, it’s already in its typical replacement range. Listen for any new or loud noises coming from the pump or well cap when water is running. If water pressure has declined steadily over time, and other components (like the pressure tank or switch) have been ruled out, the pump itself is likely the culprit.
Warning: Running a failing pump too long can increase energy use, risk motor burnout, and even cause permanent well damage if overheating occurs. Replacing your failing pump is not something you want to put off.
Long-Term Fix: If your pump is old and showing signs of decline, the best long-term fix is to schedule a professional inspection to test the pump’s flow rate, pressure output, and motor function. Replacing the pump may be more cost-effective than repeated repairs. When installing a new pump, be sure it’s correctly sized for your well depth and household water needs. Many homeowners also choose to add protective upgrades like a pump saver relay or low-water shut-off device at the same time to protect their investment and extend the lifespan of the new system.
Well Pump Maintenance & When to Call a Pro
Regular care can keep many of the above problems from happening. Here are some maintenance tips and reasons to involve a professional:
Basic Well Pump Maintenance Tips
Inspect regularly: Every few months (or whenever you have a plumber out), check the pressure tank, pump enclosure, and visible plumbing for leaks, rust, or damage. Listen for odd noises or vibrations during operation.
Monitor water usage: Note if filling tanks or watering gardens seems to drain the well long-term. If your water output is slower after heavy use, it may signal that the well is slow to recover.
Keep the well area clean: Make sure the well cap is sealed and there’s no debris, standing water, or vegetation crowding the wellhead. Virginia experts advise keeping at least a foot of clear space around the well and grading the ground to shed water away. This prevents contamination and allows easy access for service.
Annual professional check-up: A good rule is to have a qualified well pump contractor inspect and service your system each year. This preventive maintenance can include testing the air charge in the pressure tank, tightening electrical connections, and checking pump performance. Catching a worn pressure switch or small leak early can save you from a breakdown later.
At Just Better Home Services, our Home Protection Plan includes an annual plumbing inspection to watch out for potential issues before they become problems!
The Importance of Professional Well Pump Repair
Safety: Well systems involve high-voltage electricity and heavy equipment. A licensed plumber or well technician follows safety protocols to avoid shocks and equipment damage. While we appreciate a DIY spirit, attempting your own repairs can be dangerous; a wrong move could cause a short-circuit or injury.
Expert diagnosis: Trained professionals have the tools to test voltages, measure flows, and inspect the pump in the well. They know where to look first and won’t waste time guessing. An experienced technician will get to the root of your well pump problem. This means they often fix it right the first time, rather than tossing parts until one works.
Cost and time savings: Although calling a pro has an upfront fee, it can save money. If the wrong fix is applied, this can make the problem worse or cause parts to be replaced unnecessarily. A plumber will use the correct parts (protecting your pump) and may still honor warranties. Plus, fixing a problem quickly prevents it from causing secondary damage (like a fried motor or flooded well pit).
Why Virginia Homeowners Should Choose an Experienced Plumber
Virginia’s groundwater conditions have their own quirks. Seasonal droughts and rainfall patterns mean wells often drop in late summer, and geological factors (like limestone vs. granite) can affect well depth and water quality. A Virginia-based plumber understands these local conditions and state regulations. Just Better Home Services is licensed and insured in Virginia, with over a decade of serving Virginians. Our technicians are background-checked and know the local plumbing codes. When you call us for well pump repair in Virginia or general well water service in Virginia, you get a team that knows the region’s needs and can respond quickly with emergency service if needed.
Restore Reliable Water Pressure with Help from Just Better Home Services
If you’re dealing with no water or low water pressure, don’t wait for the problem to get worse. At Just Better Home Services, we specialize in diagnosing and resolving well pump and pressure tank issues for homeowners across Central Virginia, the Shenandoah Valley, Richmond, and surrounding areas.
Your well system depends on a properly functioning well pump and pressure tank to deliver steady, reliable water throughout your home. Whether you’re hearing strange noises, noticing short cycling, or dealing with inconsistent flow, our expert technicians can identify the root cause—be it electrical, mechanical, or water supply-related—and provide a cost-effective solution.
We offer:
Well pump and pressure tank repair or replacement
Low water pressure troubleshooting
Emergency plumbing services (including same-day, nights, and weekends)
Honest recommendations with no pressure
Fast, friendly service from licensed, background-checked pros
With over a decade of experience, hundreds of 5-star reviews, and a reputation for straightforward solutions and excellent customer care, we’ll make sure your water system runs smoothly again.
Don’t let water pressure problems disrupt your routine. Call Just Better Home Services today and restore your home’s flow with service that’s just better.