FAQs for a water pump won't stop running:

Questions & answers help diagnose & fix a water pump that doesn't shut off: this article series explains how to diagnose & repair a bore hole or well water water pump that keeps on running and won't shut off.

Why Won't My Well Pump Shut Off?

If you hate reading FAQs, even though your question may be answered here, please see the lead article on this topic at WATER PUMP WONT STOP RUNNING where we explain what to do if the well or water pump won't stop running.

On 2021-02-15 by (mod) - pump froze and now won't turn off: high pressure!

Janis

Watch out: IMMEDIATELY TURN OFF ELECTRICAL POWER at the pump

because if the pressure becomes great enough to burst the tank someone can be injured

and
because we don't want a burst pipe and flood

and because we're also risking burning up the pump motor

When the pump is off we can investigate further - or your plumber can:

A list of diagnostic checks for a pump that won't turn off is found at

WATER PUMP WONT STOP RUNNING - topic home

I'd probably start with either looking for a component or pipe or pressure control that's still frozen or a leak and burst pipe that's flooding somewhere.

On 2021-02-15 by Janis

Hi, we have well water in our rental house. The pump froze and finally warmed up enough to come back on. Now the pressure is very high and the pump doesn't shut off and runs continuously. What can we do? Thank you!

On 2021-02-15 by Janis

Hi, we have well water in our rental house. The pump froze and finally warmed up enough to come back on. Now the pressure is very high and the pump doesn't shut off and runs continuously. What can we do? Thank you!

On 2020-06-25 - by (mod) -

Hilton

When the pump is having trouble reaching the cut-off pressure it might run on a bit past where you see on the pressure gauge the "cut off" or "cut out" pressure you think is set on the control switch.

That might be perfectly ok if we consider that the accuracy of your pressure gauge is imprecise and that the actual pressure setting on the pressure control switch might be a bit higher.

Or there may be a problem such as a partly-clogged impeller or a leak or water running somewhere -

Continue reading at WATER PUMP WONT STOP RUNNING - topic home, https://inspectapedia.com/plumbing/Pump_Runs_On.php

On 2020-06-25 by Hilton

I have a leo water pump with an automatic pump controller.
Once I flush toilet it looses pressure and ofcause goes on to build up pressure. Once it reaches its pressure it runs for another 2mins before the pump switches off and there are no leaks

On 2020-05-09 - by (mod) -

When bumping the pressure switch works to turn a pump on or off I suspect that the pressure sensor of the switch or the tube conducting water to the sensor is debris clogged.

On 2020-04-22 by arp1981a@aol.com

I have a well that has a 2" well casing The 1hp 1 1/4 inlet 1" outlet water pump we have is obsolete and the 5 new pumps we have installed are all convertible. Due to the specs the convertible pump requires a 4" well casing for the injectors to go into the casing.

After installation the Convertible pump without the injector kit continuously runs and will not pressure up. Looking for a possible solution to my problem as I can put the old pump on and it works, but will not shut off without bumping the pressure switch due to the propellers being worn and weak.

Can anyone offer any type of solution to this problem as we do not have water? I have viewed your diagnostics section, but my problem isn't addressed. Please advise.

On 2019-10-20 - by (mod) -

Anon

Please see the diagnostics at WATER PUMP WONT STOP RUNNING

https://inspectapedia.com/plumbing/Pump_Runs_On.php

And let me know if you have any questions

On 2019-10-19 by Anonymous

My well pump wont shut off

On 2019-10-10 - by (mod) -

I don't think so, Anon.

The pressure tank itself will have no effect whatsoever on whether or not a pump can reach its cut-off pressure, UNLESS the tank has such a big leak that it is spurting water out so fast that the pump can't keep up.

More likely the cause is one of those listed at the live link you'll find above at

Continue reading at WATER PUMP WONT STOP RUNNING - topic home,

On 2019-10-10 by Anonymous

New pump new pressure switch contiues to run was thinking it was the pressure tank

On 2019-07-16 by (mod) - my pump won't turn off no matter what I try

John

Most likely your pump isn't cutting off because of a damaged impeller or low water in the well itself.

When the pump won't stop even after you set the CUT OFF pressure way down those could still be the problem.

But take a look at the complete diagnostic table found at

WATER PUMP WONT STOP RUNNING.

And let me know if that works for you.

On 2019-07-10 by John

MY PUMP PRESSURE STAYS ON 4/5 BARS WILL NOT CUTT OFF EVEN AFTER SETTING THE CONTROL VALVE.

On 2017-12-21 by shane

So I replaced my water pump cause housing froze and cracked everything after replacing it I primed pump and worked great for a day now there is nothing at all no water to house pump is still primed cause when I open the valve water shoots out and pump runs til I close the primer then pump shuts off but still no water in house but can hear little air when u open house line but no water what would cause this please help

Question: Water pressure drops and well pump never stops

Well starts out ok but within minutes has dropped pressure never does stop pumping water but it sure does get low whats up? - Ken

(Oct 10, 2015) Tony said:
Pump was continuously running and pressure gauge was 0.

Turned off the valve for the water and it still was 0. Turned off the power for the pump for about 5 minutes and back on and the pressure went up and cut off @ 4 bar and on @1.5 bar.

Like the water in the well was low....did this twice in one week. Water wouldn't rise back up in 5 minutes? Any ideas?

(Oct 17, 2015) Pam love said:
I have no water.pressure and.the comppresser is set at 45 the well pump won't stop running should i shut off power to my pump? I have a well

(Oct 22, 2015) janet said:
came home and well was running pump was warm- shut it off- only at 10 psi- have shallow well pump in basement have cleaned it out over years put chemical pellets down pump it and then flush has worked in the past- we lower the pressure switch to 23/10 was originally 20/40 and its pumping water and cycling off but seems reduced flow we have a spare pressure switch should we replace thank you

(May 9, 2016) Bob said:
My cottage 1/2 HP jet pump pumps water but pump continues to run and not cut out. Pressure goes to 70-80. No leaks and no problems in past years.

(May 16, 2016) Darryl said:
cottage jet pump won't shut off....stay primed and pumps water.....changed pressure switch, sam problem....some one suggested clogged injector in the pump ?...sound right?....do myself ?

Reply: what to check when the pump never reaches cutoff pressure

If your pump runs continuously and never reaches cut-off pressure, there are several possible causes (see the table of problems at WATER PUMP WONT STOP RUNNING) such as

• Pressure switch cut-out set higher than pump is capable of reaching (for example worn pump or broken impeller)
• Low water in the well - the well is running out of water
• Leak in well piping
• Running so much water at once in the building that the pump can't catch up

Pam: don't assume you need a new well. While a dry well can be a cause of a well pump that runs on, there can be other causes.

See WATER PUMP WONT STOP RUNNING.

Janet:

I'm not sure that the problem is the pressure switch - when a pump can't reach cut-off pressure the reasons are listed in the article WATER PUMP WONT STOP RUNNING.

For your case I'd look at a loss of water flow into th3e well, a severe piping leak, or a similar problem.

A debris-clogged pressure switch would probably not recover simply by lowering the cut-in and cut-out pressures.

Bob,

If you mean the pump never turns off, please see the diagnostic suggestions in the article WATER PUMP WONT STOP RUNNING.

Let me know what's unclear and I'll try to help further.

Darryl:

If the pump is delivering pressure but never shuts off it's probably one of the problems listed in the article we just cited.

a clogged injector ought to prevent water from entering the system and thus no water would be delivered.

Question: Water pressure surges and pump keeps running

My well is continuing to pump but with surges. Pressure at pump and at pressure valve at house both read 24 to 32 LBS bouncing back and forth. Whole weel system is new and was installed 4th of July weekend. It worked fine all day and then went to take shower and it was next to nothing coming out of faucet. - George

Reply: water surging may mean the pump is short cycling due to a waterlogged pressure tank

George, surging water pressure on a private well and tank system is often due to a water-logged water pressure tank - causing well pump short cycling. See WATER PUMP SHORT CYCLING - article link at the ARTICLE INDEX the bottom of this article .

On 2017-07-04 by (mod) re: pump won't turn on and if we turn it on ourselves it won't turn off

Jim,

If the pressure TANK pressure is above the 30 psi that you report is the pump's cut-in pressure the the pump will never turn on - set the tank air pre-charge (when pump is off and water has run until it stops) to 28 psi.

The fact that the pump continues to pump past its 50 psi cutoff setting is DANGEROUS risking a burst pipe or tank and injuring someone nearby. I would NOT run the pump under these conditions until the problem is fixed.

As you replaced the switch and the problem continues I suspect that either there's a wiring error or your switch is unable to properly sense water pressure in the system - for example that could be due to a clogged tube or pipe nipple that conducts water pressure to the switch.

On 2017-07-04 by Jim

Help.... pressure switch won't kick on and when you manually start it ..it won't shut off.. the other issue is pressure switch set to shut off at 50psi and goes to 90psi and the pump continues to run... we have replaced the switch which new switch is set at 30psi on 50psi off and it continues to do the same thing ...

On 2017-06-26 by Tommy

Just changed motor and pump 2 weeks ago went out 4 or 5 days ago motor was running had to manually open points to shut off. I know the bladder leaks but now it doesn't seem to be pumping water to tank we use water then have to go turn it off. If it pumps to house why want the tank fill up and shut off pump?

On 2017-05-18 by (mod) re: what to do if the pump keeps cutting on and off

Tony, the diagnostic and repair article you should see is at WATER PUMP SHORT CYCLING

On 2017-05-17 by Tony

Water pump switch keeps kicking on and off until it gets hot and quits

On 2017-05-09 by (mod) re: pump quits working when it rains

Steve,

No it's not normal for rainfall to cause your well pump to stop working.

WATCH OUT: there may be wet electrical wiring or wet controls that could shock or kill someone. Ask your electrician to check the pump control circuit.

It would be odd to turn a pump on or off depending on the water levels in soil outside the well being high; a well pump protection switch does the opposite: protecting the pump when water level in the well is too LOW.

Use the search box just above to find and check out our information on WELL PUMP PROTECTION SWITCH to see details

On 2017-05-09 by Steve

We have had a lot of rain in the area and our pump quits working and we cannot get any water to the house. Is this normal? I am not well versed on water pumps. Is there a safety feature on newer pumps (about 2-3 years old) for when the water table is high, the pump will not work?

On 2017-04-12 by (mod) re: pump stays on

Mark:

Indeed flipping a power switch on and off is not a durable nor entirely safe long term solution to the problem you describe.

It's possible that the pump can't reach cutoff pressure due to impeller damage or wear, low voltage, piping leaks, or other problems described in the

article WATER PUMP WONT STOP RUNNING.

On 2017-04-09 18:47:01.839258 by Mark

We have a deep well. Bladder is 37 years old, but the problem existed for many years, even with a new pump. The problem is the pump stays on after using water for a few minutes, or if toilet is flushed. No water pressure to use the garden hose.

The pump will shut off after flipping the breaker switch. We've learned to deal with the minor inconvenience of flipping the breaker switch off and on, but still wonder what life would be like if we didn't need to do that, and have enough water pressure to use the garden hose.

On 2017-04-02 by (mod) re: no water unless pump is running

That sounds to me, Jacque, as if your water pressure tank is totally waterlogged - that will be the case if the pump turns on immediately when you open the faucet and stops when you close the faucet.

Or perhaps the well has a bad check valve or foot valve.

On 2017-04-02 by jacque

I can only get water to my house when my pump runs continually. If I shut my pump off I lose all water the home immediately. When pump is running pressure tank shows 38 lbs but when I shut power off to pump pressure immediately drop to zero on my pressure tank. The only time I have water in my house is when the pump is running

On 2017-03-15 by (mod) re: pressure gauge seems wrong

Often a pressure gauge will stick - perhaps from debris, rust, silt, mud, corrosion; So the gauge may be inoperative,
or
often a bladder tank has internal damage that causes bladder to collapse, blocking the tank outlet, so the tank might have pressure but deliver no water.

When the pump runs without delivering water you did the right thing to turn it off. I suspect that's a different problem, one of the causes listed in WATER PUMP WONT STOP RUNNING

On 2017-03-15 by Charles

The pressure gauge is reading 0, But I manually check the tank and it is at 25 PSI. What does that mean? No water is coming into the house. The pump was constantly running so we killed the power to it so it wouldn't burn up.

On 2016-12-30 by JOHN

It pumps right to the pressue cutoff after I toggle power switch 54psi

On 2016-12-30 by (mod)

John

As the pump and switch are new it would be a surprise if the problem were a debris-clogged pressure control switch.

Try tapping on the gauge or making an independent pressure measurement at the tank drain.

On 2016-12-30 by JOHN

It came with the pump still having problems now it does it at 40psi

On 2016-12-27 by (mod)

John

When you installed a new pump, did you also install a new pressure control valve? If not I suspect that's the trouble.

On 2016-12-27 by JOHN

My water pump will stop pumping at 30psi until I cycle the power off and on then it will pump right up to 50psi got a new pump does the same

On 2016-12-21 by (mod)

Indeed that's a dangerously-high pressure. If you can't re-set the switch to work properly I'd replace it.

On 2016-12-21 by Rob

My pump blew a water hose. After getting it back together I saw it would turn on at 35psi and off at 85.tried adjusting the cut off but nothing changed even when nut was almost completely loose . I'm thinking the switch is bad ???

On 2016-12-11 by (mod)

if your pump will not turn off problem is not pressure tank instead of the problem is most likely one of the topics listed inWATER PUMP WONT STOP RUNNING.

if the system pressure is not able to reach the cut-off point the article WATER PUMP WONT STOP RUNNING gives the reasons.

Caucasian debris clogging the pressure control switch prevents it from correctly sensing pressure and therefore it doesn't turn off the pump. The repair would be to replace the switch for that case.

On 2016-12-11 by Dale

Hi I am noton mains water and use a water pump with a blue metal canister & Air? to control pump. On/off as I turn on the tap.
I left the property for a few months (its remote) and found that when I returned the pump did not turn off - when I turned off the taps. (no other taps were open).

Pump seems to have good pressure. How do I tell what the bladder pressure is - should I use a tyre tester? The switch setting says on 20 psi, off 40 psi. How do I know if the switch is faulty? I fiddled with the on/off spring settings.

The off spring was not even in tension on the screw. The canister where the bladder is set at factory 1.9 bar.
Can you please help me eliminate if this is a switch or air pressure or adjustment problem. Thanks

On 2016-12-04 by Matt

I noticed my pump was still running yesterday with no call for water, when I pulled the pressure switch cover off contacts were together and released when I touched them, so I went and purchased a new switch, put it on, still having same issue, they will release when I cut the power off to well, I have a 30/50 switch.

The pressure gauge goes above 50 but the switch is not turning off. I also replaced the pressure tube after thinking that could be clogged. If I turn breaker off the switch will release and stay off till the next call for water and then stick again.

Any advice would be helpful, cause I'm to the point of my ability with this thing. In the meantime I'm gonna try replacing pressure switch again to rule out trash from old tube getting in the new one. Thanks

On 2016-11-17 by Rizzaldous

Sir Question. Our booster pump on and off. they have 3 sec interval on and off. what is the possible problem the pressure switch or the pressure tank,

On 2016-11-15 by Deep well convertible jet pump (pump runs on, no pressure) - Problem Solved: Clogged nozzle.

RE: Grundfos (Aug.17) - Problem Solved: Clogged nozzle.

This was a tough one. I followed your helpful troubleshooting charts all the way through to pulling the hose and looking in the venturi. There was a clump of rusty clay the size of a small pea clogged in the metal nozzle tip under the plastic venturi.

One thing I wish I'd known first, and a caution to others... Don't fully remove the screws from the split well seal cap.

I lost both halves down the well and had to buy a new one - they're still down there.

Thanks again for this terrific website (and advice - "Don't Give Up"), I kept it open as an informative reference the entire time I was troubleshooting my well problem, which you helped me to eventually solve.

On 2016-10-25 by (mod)

Nathan,

When the pump won't reach a reasonable shut-off pressure such as the one you specify I suspect one of the problems listed in the article

WATER PUMP WONT STOP RUNNING.

1. TURN OFF the pump asap so you don't burn up the pump motor.

2. The switch may itself be defective or may be debris clogged. Mud or silt in the water supply easily clog the small opening on the bottom of the pressure control switch through which water pressure has to tell the pump just what the pressure is. Burned or damaged switch contacts can also be the problem.

Other causes such as inadequate water in the well or a leak in well piping are described in WATER PUMP WONT STOP RUNNING. The simple things to try first are

1. turn off water into the building to rule out the problem being water running inside the building itelf

2. look for obvious leaks

3. replace the switch

4. look for a damaged pump impeller or injector nozzle

On 2016-10-25 by nathan

Good day sir. We replaced the pressure tank in our house recently and after intalling the same pressure tank our motor pump won't stop running. The pressure control switch was set 25-35 psi but it only reaches about 32 psi that's why it won't stop. What could be the reason behind? I'm just a houseboy and I wanted to fix this thing as soon as possible before any damage occurs. Maybe you can help. Thank you.

On 2016-10-15 by Grundfos, now Home Plumber (store brand made by AO Smith), Deep Jet, 1/2hp

Hello again (from Aug.17th),

I replaced the old deep jet pump (cracked casing around the oring) with a new one.

It's primed (using a top brass control valve) and runs, but only a trickle comes through the kitchen sink, decent flow in the main floor bathroom sink (this sink usually has the best pressure in the house), but no water anywhere else (toilet tanks, upstairs, etc.)

If I correctly understand the article WATER PUMP WONT STOP RUNNING,

I may have to excavate the piping between the pump & well, and perhaps extract the pipe from the well to search for air leaks.
But before I do, would an air leak not result in air bubbles under the prime plug?

The new pump casing is still full of water every time I check the prime plug, no air bubbles.
Do you think I might be overlooking something else?
Thanks again, very much!

On 2016-09-14 03:04:23.069344 by (mod)

It's possible that there is a failing impeller bearing in your pump. However the conditions you described cause short or frequent on of cycling of the water pump which will also damage it.

On 2016-09-08 05:51:40.170146 by Keith

My water pump impeller housing exit pipe gets warm when the pump is running. The intake piping from the well feels cool and the piping into the water tank is cool to touch. The pump does not run excessively. The pump turns on with the flush of the toilet, and turns off shortly after. Could the impeller need replacing?

On 2016-09-02 21:58:27.445221 by (mod)

If your pump uses a pair of relays, low duty pressure sensor and heavy duty relay to turn the pump on and off you want a separate pump protection switch in the latter box enclosure; there are some nice pump monitoring relay controls that sense the pump's current draw and figure out it should be shut down.

If your pump is using ONLY a single pressure control switch, Square D makes a switch with a built-in pump protection circuit and manual reset lever.

Search InspectApedia for WATER PUMP PROTECTION SWITCH to see and read details.

On 2016-08-31 18:41:04.605387 by Sean

How do I wire a low water shutoff switch to a 3/4 hp, 230 volt water pump? I currently have my two hot lines in connected to the pump and the ground to the ground screw on the pump. Now I have 3 wires coming from the low water switch. I've wired the ground to the ground screw, now what do I do with my two other wires (hots) to make the switch work?

On 2016-08-23 23:03:44.369173 by (mod)

Definitely need a new o-ring

On 2016-08-23 01:02:57.855794 by GrundfosJDF2A,DeepWellJetPump

There are two cracks crossing the o-ring, and they are now squirting water worse than ever.
Thanks anyway.

On 2016-08-21 20:17:30.126653 by (mod)

Grund

I'm worried about this repair approach. Most water pumps do not do well if run "dry" though being on for a few moments is probably not a disaster. Longer than that the risk is overheated damaged motor bearings.

The leak may be fixed by a new o-ring, if there are not cracks or gouges where facing pump parts mate; but a motor that has trouble starting or that does not turn freely suggests a seizing bearing and/or a bad start/run capacitor.

On 2016-08-20 23:39:07.455135 by GrundfosJDF2A,DeepWellJetPump

Been hard at it trying to figure this out.

Got the pump housing off and cleaned the impeller and diffuser with a wire, and the main o-ring gasket with a wire brush. Everything looks fine. Put it back together, primed and noticed a drip from the housing (maybe the o-ring gasket, maybe the rusty casing itself...?)

Turned it on, very sluggish to turn, but it squirted out the priming water, as it slowly revved up and ran very smoothly once dry/empty.

Turned it off, re-cleaned and carefully reset the o-ring, bolted tight and even. Same results. The housing has some rust around the edges. Is this the problem do you think?
Thank you very kindly for your advice.

On 2016-08-19 00:14:52.931827 by (mod)

Than you for the nice comment Grund. We work hard to provide researched, authoritative data and are thus really happy when you find our scribbling useful. Daniel

On 2016-08-18 18:46:09.722156 by GrundfosJDF2A,DeepWellJetPump

Thank you, I'll keep at it.
BTW - This is a great website, thanks very much!

On 2016-08-17 22:52:33.562225 by (mod)

Sounds as if the pump motor was binding, may have previously been overheated from running dry.
I'm not sure you caused this trouble directly; more likely the pump was damaged from running without water, or its impeller is damaged, OR there are other explanations

in WATER PUMP WONT STOP RUNNING.

On 2016-08-17 22:47:49.973179 by GrundfosJDF2A,DeepWellJetPump

The pump was struggling to kick in so I tinkered with the wiring and pump casing bolts trying to get in to clean the impeller, but the casing is seized shut. However, there was a small hiss of air as the last bolt loosened.
Then I added oil to the electric motor shaft and now the start up is fine.

But now it runs continuously without shutting off, with only about 50% pressure throughout the house.
Do you any advice on what I may have caused to go wrong? Thank you!

On 2016-08-04 21:19:05.120694 by (mod)

Shirley there is probably a leaky check valve, foot valve, or well piping. Search InspectApedia.com for PUMP RUNS INTERMITTENTLY to read complete diagnostics.

On 2016-08-03 by Shirley Hill

Even though my sprinkler system is "off", the water pump comes on periodically (about every three hours) for about 2-3 seconds. Should I have this looked into?

On 2016-08-03 by (mod)

Repeated loss of prime suggests a well piping leak or a bad check valve or foot valve in the well.

If a pump runs long periods, worse running dry, because of lost prime, the pump may be damaged and unable to reach cutoff pressure;

or

Sometimes low voltage or a wiring defect will cause some pumps to run but only weakly.

On 2016-08-03 by Catsintroublebad

I have replaced the pressure gauge, the pressure switch box, corrected the air in the bladder tank, and cleaned out every part of the pump that is humanly possible. I have been told the pressure tube is good, not clogged. The pump will turn on when primed. My water pressure is now very low, replaced it with exact 30/50 pressure box.

Woke up and again had no water till i went and primed the pump. It will not hit 50 psi to turn off, so it runs constantly, any ideas? i am disabled and must correct this myself due to lack of funds. HELP!!!!!!!

On 2016-08-02 18:02:07.069014 by Anonymous

WE USE OUR WATER PUMP FOR LAWN/GARDEN PURPOSES ONLY. WE WATER THE LAWN FOR 20-45 MINUTES AND AFTER THAT TIME THE WATER STOPS ALL BY ITSELF BUT THE PUMP AND GAUGES ARE STILL SHOWING PRESSURE AND YOU CAN FEEL THE PUMP STILL CLICKING. WHAT SHOULD I BE LOOKING FOR? THANKS..

On 2016-07-27 14:57:29.041089 by (mod)

If the pump cannot reach the cut-off pressure, the typical causes are listed in WATER PUMP WONT STOP RUNNING. I'd take a look through them as that's more detailed and thorough than if I make up the answer anew.

If the problem is that the well has run out of water, that's a bigger problem than if the pump needs repair or replacement, or a pipe leak needs repair, or water is running in the house and simply needs to be shut off.

On 2016-07-27 14:18:08.337133 by Bryan

My well stop reaching cut off pressure by 3 psi and will not shut off Could that be the pressure switch or do you think I have bigger problems

On 2016-07-17 15:25:08.536649 by (mod)

I agree that this sounds like a debris clogging problem. The pressure switch changeout may have cured a problem of a debris-clogged pressure switch, though sometimes debris is also in the small-diameter tube or pipe that conducts water pressure to the pump.

But when a pump can't reach the cut-out pressure I suspect a damaged impeller or debris in the impeller assembly. Yes the pump impeller can be disassembled on most pump models; Take a look at the manual for the Gould J5S if you've got it - if not we'll need to both try to find and download those instructions.

On 2016-07-17 00:22:41.742299 by Gary

I have a Gould J5s pump that draws water from a poly tank adjacent to the pump. The poly tank collects water from a spring that gravity feeds the tank. I have plenty of water. It fills the tank at more than 5 gal /min. The pressure switch seemed to be sticking because it would run long sometimes and if I tapped the switch it would shut off. So replaced the switch. After replacing the switch the pump would not go up to 50 psi and will not cut out. I am sure all the air is purged, but i think the nozzle in the pump may need to be cleaned out. Is there a process to clean the nozzle?

On 2016-06-26 19:55:49.260121 by (mod)

I'm baffled: if your pump runs and you have made absolutely certain that the pump is primed, what's left are things like

- damaged pump impeller from running dry
- clogged foot valve screen
- other causes listed in the article WATER PUMP WONT STOP RUNNING

On 2016-06-26 16:54:51.139785 by Todd

We have a single line jet pump - had water a couple of weeks ago when last out to cabin - went out today and there was no water at the taps - went down to check pump and it was running and appears to have been running for some time - shut off and checked prime - all good had prime - turned power back on and same problem, no pressure building as gauge is sitting at 0...any thoughts??

On 2016-06-23 00:56:39.532728 by (mod)

If the rate at which you are taking water out of the system exceeds the ability of the pump (or pump and well if there 's a pump protection device installed) to deliver water, then yes, you'll be running water fast enough that the pump never reaches the cut-off pressure.

When you stop running water the pump should be able to reach cut-off pressure and then it'll stop: typically in just 1-3 minutes.

On 2016-06-22 21:55:00.876183 by Kimberly

We got a new pressure switch and a new water tank because we were having different problems. I would like to know if I am watering the garden for 20-30 minutes, should the pump constantly run or should it shut off periodically in this time? Seems if we flush a toilet it doesn't always turn on right away and but sometimes it does. Our pump is underneath our house and sounds a lot quieter since we replaced the two items.

On 2016-06-05 18:21:45.527774 by (mod)

Glad to assist; keep us posted;

On 2016-06-05 17:58:31.223101 by Sarah

Sounds great, thanks!

On 2016-06-05 15:07:42.967667 by (mod)

Sorry Sarah as there as so many thousands of well service companies around the world, we've not tried to compile a directory to that level of details. Good work on fixing the toilet; by the way, running water like that can also cause apparent water pressure and well problems; give your well a chance to recover now -if problems remain afte 24 hours, it's time to call an expert.

As I don't know details of what's going on at your system I can just suggest this simple test for selecting a contractor.

Ask the contractor a question that has just a little bit of technical detail like "how will you go about figuring out if my well is out of water?"

You don't have to know the right answer, Just listen to see if the contractor gives you an answer that contains information and sounds intelligent rather than posturing and bullying or arm-waving. IF the contractor says "Don't worry about it honey, we'll take care of it" that's reason enough to look further.

On 2016-06-05 07:29:41.745468 by Sarah

Hello again! I completely forgot to check the mudroom and a toilet in there we (obviously) never use, and guess what? Just basically had to jiggle the handle lol, and within a few mins the pump stopped & water pressure back up. Hooray! I feel like an idiot, but hey that's cheaper than repairs! Love the site, I will save it for next time! :-)

On 2016-06-05 00:24:20.805000 by Sarah

Do you have any well service companies in the Wichita, KS you would recommend? I am not comfortable fixing any if this myself, and I would appreciate a recommendation from your site... this is the most in-depth well & pump info I've ever found!

Years ago I contacted a service to look at our old well pump (at least 15 years; the very rude technician told us they don't even make mine any more.) that was running continuously.

They came out & replaced the pressure switch. Now I've got the same problem, no water being used in the house and running constantly, very low pressure, gauge showing 0. I tapped on the tank & it sounds empty.

I shut off the pump via the breaker and am waiting 3 hrs minimum per your site to turn on. This is our only water source so I am scared! No idea how old or deep well is - house was built in 1929.

On 2016-05-30 22:04:52.179560 by (mod)

Dex.

IF the pump can't get above 12 psi (be sure you are getting a true pressure reading) then the problem is probably one of those listed in WATER PUMP WONT STOP RUNNING

On 2016-05-28 03:02:59.096264 by Dex

need help, my pump is new it work for three months and wont shut off. i clean the tube for the pressure switch. i have one of those old style pressure tank, so i fill it with air(30psi) my pump is a 30/50. The tank work well even when the pump is off.

i trying cleaning foot valve and same result. the pump only goes to 12psi the most and doesn't shut off. for the last few days the gauge doesn't move. manufacturer support is of no help.

Question: Water-to-air cooling system shut down due to lack of water

Last nite house "water-to-air" cooling system shut down -- safety switch shuts it down when water is not available. Well pump had stopped running.

Replaced well pump pressure switch and pressure guage. Well pump then reached 48 psi and ran continuously at that pressure even though ALL house fixtures and cooling system were shut off !!

The well pump would not reach the 60 psi cut-off point that was preset in the new pressure switch. I then tightened down of the large spring in the pressure switch. With all house water requirements turned off and turning the large spring tighter, the pump would not come above 48 psi and ran continuously. So then I loosened up on the large spring.

Now the pump turns off at about 46 psi. The pump is above ground, single-pipe, jet pump, about 25 years old. Also checked all pipes -- no leaks. This situation really mystifies me. I will appreciate any and all ideas, thiughts, suggestions. I would like to see it cut on around 30-35 and cut off around 50-55 approx. Thanks, Stan

This situation really mystifies me. I will appreciate any and all thoughts, ideas, suggestions - Stan L. Liteborn, liteborn@comcase.net

Reply:

Stan, the part of your well pump problem description that reads

"Replaced well pump pressure switch and pressure guage. Well pump then reached 48 psi and ran continuously at that pressure even though ALL house fixtures and cooling system were shut off !!"

Suggests to me that either your well flow rate is inadequate - the water available from the well is insufficient - or there could be a leak in the well piping between the well and the house. Other problerms can look like an inadequate well flow rate, such as a leak in well piping.

Reader follow-up:

Here's present situation: Well pump worked last nite (7/21) and most of today. Late this afternoon, cooling system shut down again. Well pump motor was running, pump itself was too hot to touch and no water was available (opened tank drain faucet and only air came out). I shut off power to well pump, closed main water valve between tank and house and connected up to neighbors well.

This has better pressure than I've ever had but not enough volume to run the cooling system (too long a run with hoses from neighbor to me).

I will leave it this way till morning and then inspect along pipe route from house to my well, to see if any water is coming out of ground. Higher pressure from neighbors system may thus reveal your suggested .."leak in the well piping between the well and the house". If thats not it, looks like I have either a well or a pump problem --- or both

How to check well itself for broken/rusted out/cracked pipe? How to check for bad foot valve in well?

How to check for well sufficiency / water availability in well. How to check if pump is working, if it will pump water or is broken / worn out? Or is it the best approach to replace 1 item at a time till the problem is solved?? Where to start? Again, I really appreciate your interest and concern to assist with suggestions thus far. Hoping to hear from you with some thoughts about present situation and questions. Thank you so much, Stan

Reply: a hot to touch well pump sounds like the pump is running dry - things to check:

Stan, pump too hot to touch sure sounds like a pump running dry - and maybe a well without water. If you shut off all water into the house and water pressure still drops then that's why I suggested there may be a leaky check valve foot valve or piping. But your description makes us think it's a well problem.

In general it's reasonable to try replacing the less costly, easy to access questionable components first; Also if you end up needing to pull the well line for inspection/repairs, I would always install a new foot valve at that time.

Question: Good water pressure but high electric bills - we think it's the water pump but can't find any leaks

We are having a similar issue with our well.....we have good water pressure at the house and saw an increase in the electric bill.....cant seem to find any leaks....our well is 375 ft deep, and the pump is only 5 years old......any suggestions? - Regina

Reply: check for piping leaks; check the pump current draw ampacity using a clamp-on ammeter

Regina: turn off water into the home and see what happens - if your pump runs anyway then you have a leak between the in-building equipment and the bottom of the piping in the well.

Also, your plumber or well driller can measure the amps current draw of the pump to see if it's damaged or drawing unusual current.

Question: My Goulds jet pump pressure hangs at 39 psi - never reaches the 40 psi cutoff

I have a goulds jet pump that pumps up to 39ibs a stays there . the pump is set to shut off at 40lbs so it stays running .It dose not lose it prime . the water inside the crock well is 2 feed over foot valve .no leaks outside. can you help me ? - Ron

If I have a leak between the jet pump an the bottom of pipe in side the well. Will I lose the prime?

John said:
My pump is set at 40/20 range. It won't cut out at 40 until running long time and almost drops to zero before it cuts in. I currently use breaker to shut off. Is problem with switch or tank bladder ?

Reply:

Ron I agree it does not sound like a leak. Try making a small adjustment to the pressure switch cut out pressure to drop it to 38 psi. IF the problem recurs I suspect a clogged sticking pressure control switch sensor.

Question: We lost water pressure and see water leaking into the well pit where the tank is located

We have loss water pressure, & discovered water leaking into pit were we have the bladder for well, what needs to be done? - Barbara

Reply:

Barbara, start by having a clear idea of where the leak is coming from. Indeed a leak in well piping or at the water tank could result in lower water pressure.

Question: My pump keeps running but the pressure gauge at the water tank says 0 psi

I do have some water flow. Pump is a submersiable about 300 ft deep. The contacts are pulled in - I am pulling 7 amps. My bladder tank is about 400 ft. from the pump. The line coming directly from the well is cold. The pressure gauge at the bladder tank is on 0 psi Where do I begin to troubleshoot? - Gary

Reply:

Gary if the pressure tank is at 0 psi either the tank is not working (intake port blocked by a collapsed tank bladder?) or the well flow rate has deteriorated, or there is a problem with the pump or well piping. Start at the pressure tank.

...

Continue reading  at WATER PUMP WONT STOP RUNNING - topic home, how to fix a pump that won't shut off, home page, or select a topic from the closely-related articles below, or see the complete ARTICLE INDEX.

Or see WATER PUMP WONT STOP: FAQs-7 - more recent FAQs that help diagnose and fix pumps that don't stop when they should

Or see these articles on

How to fix a pump that won't shut off

• WATER PUMP DIAGNOSTIC TABLE a concise guide to diagnosing and fixing water pumps
• WATER PUMP PROTECTION SWITCH to shut off a pump to prevent burn-up
• WATER PUMP WONT STOP RUNNING

and check out

• WATER PUMP PROTECTION SWITCH to shut off a pump to prevent burn-up

Well pump is turning on and off too often,

• WATER PUMP SHORT CYCLING CAUSES - why does the water pump keep shutting on and off so quickly?

Water pump won't start

• WATER PUMP WON'T START for ten things to check
• WATER PRESSURE PROBLEM DIAGNOSIS TABLE - diagnostic Table 1: Pump Won't Run, Wont' Stop Running, or Cycles Rapidly
• WATER PRESSURE LOSS DIAGNOSIS & REPAIR
• WATER PUMP REPAIR GUIDE - home

Suggested citation for this web page

WATER PUMP WONT STOP: FAQs-6 at InspectApedia.com - online encyclopedia of building & environmental inspection, testing, diagnosis, repair, & problem prevention advice.

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INDEX to RELATED ARTICLES: ARTICLE INDEX to WATER SUPPLY, PUMPS TANKS WELLS

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