Well Pumps
The pump and pressure system are the heart of a private well. These guides cover pump types, sizing concepts, troubleshooting common failures, and what replacement typically involves — with clear lines around work that should be left to a licensed professional.
Types of Well Pumps
Submersible and jet pumps dominate residential wells, and depth is the main deciding factor. Here’s how the common types differ.
3 minReviewed October 27, 2026Well Pump Not Working
When a well stops delivering water, a logical order saves time and keeps you safe. Start with power and the pressure gauge before suspecting the pump.
3 minReviewed October 27, 2026Well Pump Short Cycling
A pump that switches on and off rapidly is "short cycling," and it wears equipment out quickly. The most common cause is a pressure tank that has lost its air charge.
2 minReviewed October 27, 2026Submersible Well Pumps
A plain-English guide to submersible well pumps: how they push water up from deep in the well, their strengths, and when to call a pro.
2 minReviewed October 29, 2026Jet Pumps
A guide to jet pumps: surface-mounted pumps that use suction, the shallow vs. deep well versions, and their main limitations.
2 minReviewed October 29, 2026Well Pump Lifespan
Well pump life varies widely with sizing, water quality, and how often the pump cycles — here is what shortens it and what to watch for.
2 minReviewed October 29, 2026Well Pump Pressure Switch
The pressure switch turns the pump on and off at set pressures. Here is how cut-in and cut-out work and why adjusting it is professional work.
2 minReviewed October 29, 2026Well Pump Size Guide
Sizing a well pump means balancing household demand against the well’s tested yield, depth, and pressure needs — not just copying the old horsepower.
2 minReviewed October 29, 2026Well Pump Troubleshooting
A homeowner-safe troubleshooting checklist for well pump problems, focused on the simple checks you can make before calling a professional.
2 minReviewed October 29, 2026Pressure Tank Basics
The pressure tank stores water under pressure so the pump does not run every time you open a tap. Here is how it works and why pre-charge matters.
2 minReviewed October 29, 2026Waterlogged Pressure Tank
A waterlogged tank has lost its air cushion, so the pump cycles rapidly. Here is how to spot it and why it needs prompt attention.
2 minReviewed October 29, 2026Constant Pressure Systems
Constant pressure systems use a variable-speed pump to hold steady household pressure. Here is how they differ from a conventional tank setup.
2 minReviewed October 29, 2026Deep Well vs. Shallow Well
Water depth decides whether a shallow-well or deep-well pump is right. Here is how the two differ and how to tell which your home uses.
2 minReviewed October 29, 2026Well Pump Keeps Running
A well pump that never shuts off usually means it cannot reach cut-out pressure. Here are the common causes and when to stop and call a pro.
2 minReviewed October 29, 2026Well Pump Losing Prime
A jet pump that keeps losing prime has air getting into the suction side. Here are the usual culprits and why repeated priming is a warning sign.
2 minReviewed October 29, 2026Check Valve Problems
The check valve keeps water from draining back down the well. A failed one causes pressure drops, cycling, and noise — here is what to watch for.
2 minReviewed October 29, 2026