How to Tell if Your Well Is Dry or the Pump Is Failing
If you’re experiencing a sudden decrease in water supply, you may be wondering whether your well has gone dry or if your pump is malfunctioning. Distinguishing between these two issues can help you determine the next steps for restoring water access.
Signs Your Well May Be Dry
A dry well can occur when groundwater levels drop below the well pump’s intake level. Signs of a dry well often include sporadic water flow, especially during high-demand periods, along with a change in water quality, such as increased sediment or air in the pipes. Sometimes, the water may start flowing for a few seconds and then stop, indicating that the water table has dropped too low for consistent pumping. In some cases, a dry well may also result in a gradual decrease in water pressure over time. If you suspect your well is dry, checking your local water table conditions or consulting a professional to measure your well depth can confirm if water levels are an issue.
Signs Your Well Pump May Be Failing
A well pump issue can often mimic symptoms of a dry well, making it essential to check for specific signs that point to a pump malfunction. Common indicators include loud, unusual noises from the pump, short-cycling (when the pump frequently turns on and off), and fluctuating water pressure. If the pump motor is running but no water is coming out, it could mean a mechanical failure, such as a broken impeller or a clog in the system. Another sign of pump failure is higher energy bills, which can result from the pump working harder to deliver water, possibly due to a worn-out motor or pressure tank issue.
Determining the Cause with Professional Help
Diagnosing whether the well or pump is at fault often requires a professional assessment. At Total Wells Pumps and Filtration, our experts can perform a comprehensive inspection to identify the root cause of your water supply issues. With our knowledge of well depths, water table levels, and pump mechanics, we can accurately diagnose the problem and recommend solutions to restore water access. Call, email, or submit a service request on our website to get your system back up and running efficiently.