5 Common Water Well Problems and How to Fix Them
If you rely on a private water well for your home’s water supply, you’ve likely experienced or will eventually face some type of well system issue. Understanding common problems and their solutions can help you respond appropriately and potentially save you time, money, and stress.
At Front Range Well Services, we’ve fixed thousands of well systems across Colorado. Here are the five most common problems we encounter and how to address them.
1. No Water or Low Water Pressure
Few household emergencies are more disruptive than suddenly having no water. This common problem can have several causes.
Possible Causes:
- Electrical issues (tripped breaker, blown fuse, failed pressure switch)
- Pump failure or malfunction
- Waterlogged pressure tank
- Dropping water table in your well
- Clogged filters, screens, or pipes
- Pressure switch problems
DIY Troubleshooting:
- Check your electrical panel for tripped breakers
- Check the pressure gauge on your tank (should read 40-60 PSI typically)
- Listen for the pump running but not delivering water
- Check if you have power to the pressure switch and control box
- Verify water is available in other fixtures (isolated vs. whole-house issue)
When to Call a Professional:
If basic electrical checks don’t resolve the issue, or if you suspect pump, pressure tank, or well problems, it’s time to call a professional. Pump and well work require specialized equipment and expertise. Don’t risk damage to expensive components with DIY repairs.
2. Cloudy, Discolored, or Smelly Water
Water quality issues often indicate problems with your well system that need attention.
Possible Causes:
- Sediment infiltration due to well screen issues
- Bacterial contamination
- Iron or manganese bacteria (slime, odor)
- Mineral buildup in pipes or equipment
- Corroded pipes releasing metals
- Groundwater changes or contamination
DIY Troubleshooting:
- Run water for 5-10 minutes to see if it clears
- Check if the problem affects all fixtures or just some
- Note when the issue occurs (first use, all the time, after rain)
- Consider recent changes near your well (construction, flooding, etc.)
- Conduct a basic water test
When to Call a Professional:
Any persistent water quality issue deserves professional attention. Our water testing services can identify the specific contaminants, and our technicians can recommend appropriate treatments or repairs.
3. Rapid Cycling of Pump (Short Cycling)
If your pump frequently turns on and off, it’s experiencing “short cycling,” which can damage the pump and other components.
Possible Causes:
- Waterlogged pressure tank (most common)
- Incorrect pressure switch settings
- Leaking foot valve or check valve
- Partially closed valves restricting flow
- Undersized pressure tank
DIY Troubleshooting:
- Listen for rapid clicking of the pressure switch
- Check tank pressure with a tire gauge (when system is off and drained)
- Look for leaks around the pressure tank or connections
- Check for water running when all fixtures are off
When to Call a Professional:
Short cycling causes premature pump failure if not corrected. While checking tank pressure is a reasonable DIY task, diagnosing valve issues or replacing a waterlogged tank requires professional service.
4. Sputtering Water, Air in Lines
When your faucets sputter or spit air, it can indicate several potential problems with your well system.
Possible Causes:
- Dropping water level in well (pump sucking air)
- Leak in suction line (in jet pumps)
- Failed check valve allowing water to drain back
- Waterlogged pressure tank
- Improper pump submersion (for submersible pumps)
DIY Troubleshooting:
- Check if the problem occurs at all fixtures
- Note if it happens consistently or only after heavy water use
- Check if air appears clear or cloudy/milky (air vs. gas)
- Monitor how long it takes for water to run clear
When to Call a Professional:
Air in lines often indicates problems with your well pump, drop pipe, or water level—all issues that require professional assessment. If the problem persists beyond occasional brief sputtering, contact a well service company.
5. Unusual Noises From Your Well System
Strange sounds coming from your well system often provide important clues about developing problems.
Possible Causes:
- Grinding or scraping indicates pump bearing issues
- Clicking may signal electrical/pressure switch problems
- Banging pipes (water hammer) indicate pressure issues
- Constant humming without water delivery suggests pump issues
- Chattering often means pressure switch problems
DIY Troubleshooting:
- Note exactly when and where the noise occurs
- Record the sound if possible to play for a technician
- Check if noise corresponds with pump cycling on/off
- Determine if the noise is from the pressure tank area or elsewhere
When to Call a Professional:
Unusual noises almost always indicate a developing problem that will worsen over time. Professional diagnosis can catch issues before they lead to complete system failure or damage to expensive components.
Preventative Maintenance: The Best Solution
Many well problems can be prevented with regular professional maintenance. Our well maintenance services include:
- Comprehensive system inspection
- Pressure tank checking and adjustment
- Electrical system testing
- Pump performance evaluation
- Water level monitoring
- Early problem detection
When to DIY vs. When to Call a Professional
Safe DIY Tasks:
- Checking circuit breakers
- Testing tank pressure (when system is off)
- Basic water fixtures maintenance
- Monitoring and documenting issues
- Simple filter changes
Leave to Professionals:
- Pump replacement or repair
- Pressure tank replacement
- Electrical control box work
- Any work requiring well opening
- Pressure switch replacement
- Major plumbing changes
Emergency Well Repair Services
When you’re facing a complete water system failure, Front Range Well Services offers emergency repair services throughout Colorado’s Front Range region. Our fully equipped service vehicles and experienced technicians can diagnose and repair most problems quickly to restore your water supply.
Learn more about our well repair services or contact us at (720) 555-1234 for emergency assistance.
Have you experienced other well problems not covered here? Leave a comment below, and our experts will help troubleshoot your issue.