When it comes to a well water system you might start coming across some issues with low water pressure. Not to worry with this checklist we are here to help you troubleshoot low water pressure on well water systems to determine what the problem might be and how to resolve it.
At Five Star Plumbing Services Inc, we have many years of experience working with well water systems which is why we have compiled a list of common problems to look out for and how to troubleshoot them.
Some common problems to look out for include:?
Low Flow Coming From The Well Pump
This can be caused by aging well pump wearing out, clogged well screens, or a partially stuck check valve, broken well pipe, or corroded well pipe. For well water problems of this nature, it is best to consult with a well professional.
Pressure Switch is Set Too Low, or Bad Pressure Switch
For standard systems, one question we are asked is: can I turn up the pressure switch, or adjust the pressure switch to get higher pressure? Yes, you can adjust the pressure switch, however you have to be careful with this because when you adjust it, it decreases the amount of drawdown in the pressure tank. Your well pump may not be able to build higher pressure than what your pressure switch is set to, so adjusting it higher might not do the trick.
Pressure switches may also need to be cleaned and inspected to make sure there are no ants or insects present. This is best done by a professional as there are live wires inside.
Failed Pressure Tank or Low Pressure in the Captive Air Tank
Your pressure tank has a captive air bladder or diaphragm, which holds a certain pre-charged amount of air pressure. To check it, turn off the well pump power, and drain out any water pressure in the tank by opening a hose bib or faucet. The pressure switch can also be bad, that is another very common problem.
Clogged Piping
You probably need a plumber or well contractor to identify this, but one way to tell if it is your plumbing is to take out a section of the pipe and look inside. Is it filled with orange sludge, scale, or sediment? This can cut way back on your water pressure greatly.
Partially Clogged or Stuck Gate Valves
Gate valves and ball valves need to get turned on and off periodically. Sometimes gate valves get stuck and cannot open or close, especially if they have not been used for a long time. Replace these types of bad valves. If the valve is full of sludge it can be cleaned, but the rule of thumb is that replacing it is usually better.
Clogged or Malfunctioning Pressure Regulators
You may have a pressure regulator on the main pipe coming into the home. These can go bad or become fouled with sediment or rust over many years which will mean they need to be replaced.
Clogged Aerators, Showerheads, Faucets, or Fixtures
Remove faucet aerators and showerheads and see if those are plugged with scale or sediment. You might have good water pressure and flow but have partially clogged aerators. These can be cleaned with vinegar or citric acid or replaced to restore pressure.
Poorly Sized, Clogged, or Malfunctioning Filter Cartridges, Water Softener, or Iron Filters
Check and change filter cartridges and inspect your backwashing filters and water softeners if you have them. Check pressure before and after to troubleshoot if you have a problem with pressure loss through your filter system.
Need Help From An Experienced Plumber?
We hope reading through this checklist of possible causes of low water pressure on well water systems was helpful. Are you in need of service on your well pump? Contact Five Star Plumbing today. We provide homeowners throughout Baltimore County and Harford County with well pump replacement and repair services. So whether you are upgrading your well pump or need to install a replacement fast, we can help! Contact us today or give us a call at 410-836-0118 to schedule your appointment.