Tool
Well Pump Symptom Troubleshooter
Four to five questions, based on what you can safely see and hear. The result tells you how urgent it is, what to check and which guide to read next.
Before you start
If you see sparks, smell burning, or water is near the pump's wiring, turn the pump's breaker off first. Every check suggested here can be done without opening the pressure switch, control box or well cap.
Symptom troubleshooter
Question 1
This tool is for educational guidance and does not replace an onsite diagnosis. If you see sparks, smell burning, or a breaker trips twice, turn the pump's breaker off and call a licensed professional.
How the troubleshooter works
The questions follow the same logic contractors use: power first, then what the pressure gauge does, then what the pump is doing. The possible causes for each branch come from the system troubleshooting tables that Franklin Electric publishes for submersible installations[1] and Pentair's jet-pump troubleshooting chart,[2] reorganized around what a homeowner can observe.
| Label | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Stop now | Turn the pump's breaker off. Continuing to run risks damage or a safety hazard. |
| Arrange service soon | Safe to use carefully, but the problem will get worse or wear the pump. |
| Check and monitor | Likely simple or not a well problem; follow the checks and watch for changes. |
More calculators are on the tools page.
What it can't do
- It can't measure voltage, current, water level or pump output — the tests that confirm most well-side problems.
- It assumes a conventional system with a pressure tank and switch. Constant-pressure drives show fault codes; start with the drive's manual.
- More than one problem can exist at once (for example, a waterlogged tank that has burned the switch contacts).
This tool is for educational guidance and does not replace an onsite diagnosis.
Sources
- Franklin Electric. Submersible Motors: Application, Installation & Maintenance (AIM) Manual, 60 Hz. Accessed Sept. 28, 2026.
- Pentair. Pro Shallow Well Jet Pumps — Installation & Operation Manual (P15001, 2023). Accessed Sept. 28, 2026.
We cite manufacturer documentation and public agencies first. Read how we choose and check sources.