If you draw your water supply from a well, you know how important your well pump is. This essential device brings the water you need into your home, so it’s critical to know when there’s an issue. Here are four warning signs that your well pump is in danger of failing.
1. Consistent Clicking Noises
Your well system will likely make some noises during normal functioning. An ongoing clicking noise, however, is cause for concern.
Clicking sounds can have several causes. These include:
- A faulty pressure switch
- A failing pressure tank bladder
- Low water tank pressure
- Damaged well pump bearings or impeller
While the pressure issues listed above are not problems within the pump itself, these problems will cause the pump to cycle more and more often, which generates a clicking sound. Continuous cycling causes your pump to wear out much more quickly than it should.
Damaged or obstructed pump components, such as the bearings or the impeller, can also cause clicking noises. If not repaired or replaced, these faulty parts could lead to suboptimal functioning, constant cycling, and pump failure.
2. Excessive Power Draw and Energy Usage
Unless there’s a significant change in your household, like additional people or a new appliance, you can usually expect your monthly energy use to be fairly consistent. A significant change in energy usage and utility bills could signal a well pump issue that you need to address.
Since one of the signs of a failing well pump is constant cycling, that means that your pump is running much more than it should. This continuous cycling draws excess power, resulting in higher energy usage and costs.
You should investigate any unexpected increase in your energy bill or power usage. If a faulty well pump is to blame, you’ll want to find and fix the problem as soon as possible to preserve the integrity of your well system.
3. Changes in Water Pressure
Some fluctuations in water pressure and supply are to be expected with any well system. Consistent issues, however, can signal a serious problem with your well pump.
If you notice that your water supply or pressure is low, check how many water fixtures are in use. If you’re running a faucet, washing machine, and shower at the same time, for example, that would explain any temporary low water pressure.
If multi-fixture use isn’t a factor, or if you notice that your water pressure is always low no matter what, a failing pump may be the cause. To pinpoint the issue, call your local well contractor to assess the situation and keep your system in top condition.
4. Early Repair or Replacement Needs
All the parts of your well are designed to work in sync. If you have a failing pump, the atypical pressure it causes or the constant pump cycling can create additional strain on other components, especially the pressure tank and pipes.
Even if your pump is still running, unusual wear and breakdowns in the rest of your system can point to a well pump problem. If you have to repair or replace other parts of your water system earlier than expected, a faulty well pump could be the culprit.
For help diagnosing and addressing a failing well pump in Valatie or the region, call Goold Wells & Pumps today. We’ve been providing local well installation and maintenance services for over 90 years. We’re a family-owned company, and we pride ourselves on offering top-quality workmanship and outstanding customer service to every client. Call us today for a free estimate and to find out how we can keep your well running smoothly for years to come. Goold Wells & Pumps—Trusted Name Since 1928.