Indications of a Well Pump on the Way Out
For no apparent cause your water pressure has given way? Unusual sounds are coming from the pressure tank? You may have noticed your water bill inching up and put two and two together to no avail.
Homeowners in Asheville and Western North Carolina rely on us at Family First Plumbing (what was once NCPD Service) to see that their well systems are in proper order. Should you recognise any of what is set out below, pick up the phone and call (828) 618-4759. Our crew has been in the area since 2020 with more than 20 years of plumbing experience between them.
You do not give a well pump much thought as a rule, but when it does fail you are without water. In most cases a pump will show its hand before it finally gives up. It is better to be able to put those warning signs early on and avoid the aggravation of a day with no running water, not to mention the expense.
A Decline in Water Pressure
People tend to notice the pressure change first. A shower with little strength or a feeble flow at the faucet could be an indication of a pump or pressure tank that is not retaining air as it ought to.
Then again a clogged fixture or some minor leak can account for low pressure. Yet if the whole house is affected at once, one can put the blame on the pump or pressure tank.
Water That Is Not Up to Snuff
There should be nothing but clean, clear water from your well. As the pump wears, however, it may be taking in sediment or sand from the bottom of the well.
Keep an eye out for:
- A cloudy or murky look
- Sand or grit in your glass
- Something of a metallic or muddy flavour
- Faucets sputtering and spitting air
- Some discoloration upon turning on the tap
Such things suggest the well level is too low for the pump to operate effectively or that it is not drawing properly.
Constant Running or Cycling of the Pump
Under normal circumstances the pump comes on to fill the pressure tank and then goes off. If it appears to run without end, take note; a pump put to such work will not have a long life.
Rapid cycling is equally revealing. When the pump is clicking on and off in quick succession it is often due to a waterlogged tank or a pressure switch on its last legs. Either way the motor is under strain.
Noises You Do Not Expect
Some noise is par for the course with a well system, but it should not be loud. Any humming, grinding, rattling or clicking in the vicinity of the pump or pressure tank should be looked at.
It could be a pressure switch failing or a motor that is worn out. An early check improves the chances of a repair rather than having to replace the unit altogether.
An Uptick in Your Electric Bill
If there has been no other change in the home and the bill has gone up, an overworked well pump may be the explanation. It takes more power to get the job done when the pump is struggling. Most would not make the connection so it is easy to overlook.
Faucets Spitting Air
Bursts of air with the water from the tap is usually because the pump is pulling from a crack in the line or the water has receded below the intake. Make sure to have this seen to in short order; a dry run will burn out a pump.
The Case for Acting Early
Well pumps have a finite life span, but with prompt repairs and some attention you can make the most of it. To let these signs go is to invite trouble, and a total failure means you are left high and dry at the worst possible moment.
We are licensed (NC #35369) and insured, and provide service for well pumps and pressure tanks all over Asheville and Western North Carolina. There is no need to wait around for your water to go out as we are here 24/7. Free estimates are available from us as well as financing with pre-approval via ServiceFinance to spread the cost.
Do not put it off until the system quits. Contact Family First Plumbing at (828) 618-4759 and we will have a team come by to put an end to a small issue before it gets any bigger.
