Well System FAQ

A: Fluctuating pressure is usually caused by a water-logged tank. When there is not enough air in the tank, very little water comes out of the tank before the pump comes on. As you continue to use water, the pump will come on and off rapidly. This short cycling damages the pump, pipe, wire and switch. The tank either needs to be replaced or charged with air. Call us right away to prevent further damage.

A: There are a few steps you will want to take before calling us:

1. Check the breaker in the electric panel. Maybe it tripped. Be careful as electric is dangerous.
2. Check / replace the cartridge filter if you have one.
3. Check the gauge on the pipes near the tank. If the gauge reads over 30 psi and you have conditioners or filters, open a hose outside and then by-pass them. If you have good water pressure coming out of the hose, change the filter or backwash the conditioners. If the gauge reads below 30 psi, there may be a problem with the pump, check valve or the water lines. Call Edward Powell Pump & Well. 610-459-1098.

A: First, check the gauge on the pipes near the tank. If the gauge reads 30 psi and you have conditioners and filters, open a hose bib outside and then by-pass the filter or conditioners. Let it run for 2 minutes and shut it off. Then run water in the house. If the pressure is good, you have a blockage in the filter or conditioning equipment. Change the filter or backwash the conditioners. If these steps do not help, call Edward Powell Pump & Well. 610-459-1098

If the gauge reads below 30 psi, there may be a problem with the pump, check valve or the water line. Call Edward Powell Pump & Well. 610-459-1098.

A: This is usually caused by a clogged pressure switch. It cannot sense the pressure in the system. As a result, the switch does not open & close at the right pressures. The switch and nipple need to be cleaned or replaced. We do not recommend trying this as electrical components are dangerous. Please call Edward Powell Pump & Well at 610-459-1098.

A: If it is a slow and manageable leak, call us for an appointment.

If it is unmanageable and it is creating a flood, turn the breaker off to the pump (ONLY IF YOU ARE NOT STANDING IN WATER).Call Edward Powell Pump & Well Drilling for emergency service at 610-459-1098.

A: You can always get better pressure. Sometimes it is just a matter of adjusting the switch and adding air to the tank. If that is not an option, the Grundfos constant pressure pump is a great choice. It  can deliver 70 psi throughout your home at a constant rate. Call us for a free evaluation.

A: You may have a low yielding well. We may be able to hydro-frac or deepen your well. These solutions are less expensive than drilling a new well. Call us for a free evaluation.

Water quality issues? See Conditioning FAQ.