7 Signs Your Well Pump Is Failing (Don't Ignore #4)
Your well pump works around the clock to deliver water to your home, but it won't last forever. Submersible pumps typically last 8 to 15 years, while jet pumps last 4 to 8 years. Catching the warning signs early can save you from an expensive emergency replacement — or worse, days without water.
Here are the 7 most common signs your well pump is on its way out.
1. Sputtering or Spitting Water from Faucets
If your faucets spit bursts of water mixed with air, your pump may be struggling to maintain consistent flow. This often means the pump is losing its ability to draw water effectively, or the water level in your well has dropped below the pump intake.
Common causes: Failing pump, cracked drop pipe, low water table, or a faulty check valve.
2. Low or Fluctuating Water Pressure
Noticeable drops in water pressure — especially when multiple fixtures are running — can signal a weakening pump. If your pressure used to be strong and has gradually declined, the pump motor may be wearing out.
Common causes: Worn pump impeller, clogged pressure tank, failing pressure switch, or partially closed valve.
3. Unusually High Electric Bills
A failing pump motor works harder to deliver the same amount of water, drawing significantly more electricity. If your electric bill has jumped without explanation, check your well pump.
Common causes: Worn motor bearings, electrical short in wiring, or pump cycling on and off too frequently (short cycling).
4. Dirty, Sandy, or Cloudy Water
This is the one you should never ignore. Sand or sediment in your water can mean the pump has dropped too low in the well, the well screen is damaged, or the casing has cracked. Left unchecked, sand will destroy the pump and damage your plumbing fixtures, water heater, and appliances.
Common causes: Damaged well screen, corroded casing, pump sitting too low, or collapsing well bore.
5. Air Spurting from Faucets
Consistent air in your water lines (different from occasional sputtering) usually means the pump is drawing air along with water. This could indicate a failing pump, a crack in the drop pipe above the water line, or a dropping water table.
Common causes: Cracked drop pipe, low water level, failing pump seal, or methane gas in groundwater.
6. Pump Runs Constantly or Cycles Rapidly
You can often hear your well pump kick on and off. If it's running non-stop or cycling every few seconds (short cycling), something is wrong. This dramatically shortens pump life and drives up your electric bill.
Common causes: Waterlogged pressure tank, leaking check valve, failed pressure switch, or plumbing leak.
7. No Water at All
Complete loss of water is the most obvious sign. Before assuming the pump has failed, check your electrical panel for a tripped breaker and your pressure switch for issues. If those are fine, the pump has likely failed.
Common causes: Dead pump motor, tripped breaker, failed pressure switch, or dry well.
Repair vs. Replace: How to Decide
| Scenario | Repair ($500–$2,000) | Replace ($1,500–$5,000) |
|---|---|---|
| Pump age under 5 years | ✅ Usually worth it | ❌ |
| Pump age 8-15 years | ❌ | ✅ Better investment |
| Pressure switch/tank issue | ✅ Cheap fix | ❌ |
| Motor failure | ❌ | ✅ Replace pump |
| Sandy/sediment water | ⚠️ Diagnose first | ⚠️ May need new well |
| Multiple recurring issues | ❌ | ✅ Replace |
Pump Lifespan by Type
| Pump Type | Average Lifespan | Replacement Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Submersible pump | 8–15 years | $1,500–$4,000 |
| Shallow well jet pump | 4–8 years | $800–$2,000 |
| Deep well jet pump | 4–8 years | $1,000–$3,000 |
| Constant pressure system | 8–12 years | $2,500–$5,000 |
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if my well pump is bad or if it's something else?
Start by checking the simplest things first: look for a tripped breaker, test the pressure switch, and check the pressure tank. If those are all fine and you're still having issues, call a well pump technician for diagnosis. They can test the pump's amperage draw to determine if the motor is failing.
Can a well pump be repaired or does it need to be replaced?
Minor issues like a bad pressure switch ($100–$300) or waterlogged pressure tank ($200–$600) are easy repairs. But if the pump motor itself has failed, replacement is almost always more cost-effective than repair, especially for submersible pumps that must be pulled from deep wells.
How much does it cost to replace a well pump?
Expect to pay $1,500 to $5,000 for a complete well pump replacement, depending on well depth, pump type, and your location. Deeper wells cost more because pulling and reinstalling the pump requires more labor and materials.
What happens if I ignore a failing well pump?
A failing pump will eventually stop working entirely, leaving you without water. Worse, issues like sand in the water can damage your plumbing, water heater, and appliances. Early action saves money.