Quick Answers for a Running Well Pump
Is your well pump running nonstop? If so, one of these issues is likely the problem:
- A running appliance or hidden leak
- Bad settings or a faulty pressure switch
- Jet pump loses its prime
- Leaking or cracked well pipe
- Undersized pump relative to home’s needs
- Drought conditions or low water table
- Impeller, seals, motor, or other pump parts are worn down
Need Help Right Now? Book a Well Pump Repair Services
How a Well Pump Works (And Why It Should Stop Running)
Your well pump is designed to turn on and off as necessary, rather than running continuously. The majority of systems utilize either jet or submersible pumps.
Jet pumps are typically used for shallow wells and are above-ground, whereas submersible pumps are usually used for deeper wells and are located inside the well. Each system is paired with a pressure switch and pressure tank that help regulate pump operations.
The cut-in point is when it turns on, and the cut-out point is when it turns off. A properly working pump cycles based on the water used in the household, but it shouldn’t stay on indefinitely.
A pump that never shuts off is a huge red flag. Continuous operation can lead to wasted energy, overheating, and ultimately, system failure. Keep reading to explore why this happens.
7 Common Reasons Your Well Pump Keeps Running
1. A Hidden Leak or Constantly Running Appliance
What it means: Leaks in fixtures or plumbing that never shut off might make a pump run nonstop, such as an outdoor faucet left active or a toilet that keeps running.
Signs to watch for: Pump motor doesn’t stop, constant sounds of running water, and surprisingly high water bills
What you can do: Shut the main valve off. If your tank’s pressure gauge keeps dropping, you likely have a leak.
Call a pro if: The leak is underground or you can’t locate it. Our punctual plumbers will find it fast.
2. Pressure Switch Failure or Improper Settings
What it means: The pressure switch tells a pump when to stop. If it’s misaligned, dirty, or set too high, it might not hit its cutoff point.
Signs to watch for: Pump runs past proper cut-out pressure, water pressure doesn’t seem right, and buzzing or clicking at the switch
What you can do: Look for corrosion or dirt on the contacts, and ensure the settings match the tank specs.
Call a pro if: You need help adjusting the switch or suspect it’s faulty. We repair pressure switches affordably and quickly.
3. Loss of Prime in a Jet Pump System
What it means: Jet pumps have to be primed with water to function correctly. If air gets into the suction line, the pump might spin but not draw water.
Signs to watch for: Pump runs without delivering anything, gurgling noises, or no water coming from taps
What you can do: Try to prime the pump manually. If that fails, professional repair might be necessary.
Call a pro if: You suspect a suction leak or are unsure how to reprime your system.
4. Cracked or Leaking Well Pipe
What it means: The underground pipe between your home and the pump might be leaking or cracked. The consequence is a pressure drop that makes the pump overwork.
Signs to watch for: Constant pump cycling, wet spots in the yard, and a sudden water pressure drop
What you can do: Not much, as this typically needs leak detection and excavation
Call a pro if: You’re suspicious about a buried line. We have the right tools to locate and resolve it quickly.
5. Pump is Too Small for Household Demand
What it means: A pump that’s undersized for your home’s water needs will run all the time trying to keep up.
Signs to watch for: Pump operations every time water is accessed, frequent pressure dips, more household occupants, irrigation, or a recent home addition
What you can do: Monitor water usage, and compare it to system specs.
Call a pro if: Your household has outgrown the system. We’ll size and install a pump that meets your needs.
6. Low Water Table or Well Supply Issues
What it means: During heavy use or drought, the water table might dip below the reach of your pump.
Signs to watch for: Constant pump noises, slower refill times, and air sputtering from your faucets
What you can do: Temporarily reduce household water use, and monitor the recovery.
Call a pro if: You’re unsure of your well capacity. We provide testing and appropriate long-term solutions.
7. Worn or Damaged Pump Components
What it means: Over time, parts like the impeller, motor, or seals can wear down, particularly in older submersible systems.
Signs to watch for: Intermittent performance, reduced water flow, and strange noises
What you can do: Listen for pump sound changes; note inconsistencies in pressure.
Call a pro if: Your system is acting erratically or is over a decade old. We’ll assess before recommending replacements or repairs.
How a Constantly Running Pump Damages Your System
Shorter pump lifespan because of overuse- Drives up your power bill significantly
- Overheating the motor can cause total burnout
- Elevated risk of total system failure, including damage to the pressure tank
What You Can Check Yourself (Before You Call Us)
- Look for running toilets or dripping faucets
- Inspect the pressure gauge to see if it’s fluctuating
- Look for visible leaks around the tank or pump
- Listen for clicking or buzzing at the pressure switch
Professional Well Pump Repair: What We Do
- Test tank settings and the pressure switch
- Inspect for electrical faults, leaks, and loss of prime
- Diagnose flow rate performance and pump size
- Offer clear options, such as replacement vs. repairs
Why Choose Benjamin Franklin for Well Pump Repair?
Licensed, insured well pump technicians- Expertise in submersible and jet pumps
- Upfront, transparent pricing
- Punctual plumbers who respect your home and time
- Proudly serving our local Gainesville, FL neighbors
FAQs
What happens if my well pump runs too long?
The motor can overheat, components might get worn down, energy bills are likely to rise, and the whole system could fail.
How do I reset my pressure switch?
Turn off the power first. If it has a switch lever, lift it to trigger a manual reset. Should that fail, the switch might be damaged.
Can a power outage mess up my well pump?
Yes. Following outages, pumps can develop airlocks, lose prime, or fail to restart due to electrical issues.
Is it OK for my pump to run every time I use water?
It depends. A correctly sized system that has a good pressure tank is supposed to cycle, not run every single time. If it does, you might have a faulty switch or tank.
Should I turn off my pump if it won’t shut off?
Yes. Use the breaker to turn the power off to prevent damage. Next, call a professional who can diagnose the issue.