Several issues can cause a well pump to cycle too frequently. Some have relatively simple fixes, while others require testing and repairs from a well pump professional. Knowing the potential causes can help you recognize when it is time to schedule service.
Key Takeaways
- Normal well pumps cycle, but repeated starts and stops every few seconds can indicate short cycling.
- A waterlogged, damaged, or incorrectly charged pressure tank is a common cause.
- Leaks and failing check valves can cause the pump to cycle even when no water is intentionally being used.
- Pressure switch problems can interfere with normal start and stop pressures.
- Frequent cycling increases wear on the pump and other system components.
- Basic homeowner checks can help identify obvious problems, but professional testing is the best way to determine the actual cause.
It’s normal to hear your well pump cycle on and off as your household uses water. However, if the pump starts and stops every few seconds or runs through frequent cycles during normal water use, something may be wrong with the well or pressure system. This problem, commonly called short cycling, can increase energy use and put unnecessary wear on the pump motor and other components.
How Often Should a Well Pump Cycle?
Water demands vary by day and by household, so there isn’t a normal number of cycles. In a typical Arizona water well system, your pressure tank stores pressurized water so that the pump doesn’t need to start every time someone uses a small amount of water.
As family members and appliances use water, the system pressure falls. Once it reaches the pressure switch’s cut-in setting, the pump turns on. The pump runs until the system reaches the cut-out pressure and then shuts off.
If your pump turns on, runs for only a few seconds, shuts off, and then quickly starts again during water use, it may be short cycling.
Common Reasons a Well Pump Cycles On and Off
A Waterlogged or Failing Pressure Tank
The pressure tank is one of the first places to look when a well pump begins short cycling. The tank contains an air cushion that allows it to store water under pressure. If the tank loses its proper air charge or its internal bladder or diaphragm fails, it will not be able to store its full water volume. The system pressure will drop quickly whenever you use water. The well pump must turn on and off to make up the difference. This cycle can repeat every few seconds.
Professional solution: A well pump technician can determine whether the problem is an incorrect air charge, a failed bladder or diaphragm, an undersized tank, or another pressure-system problem. A damaged tank may need to be replaced.
An Incorrectly Charged Pressure Tank
Damage to the pressure tank is not the only reason for tank-related cycling problems. An incorrect air charge can reduce the tank’s available drawdown, causing the pump to start more frequently.
DIY solution: Homeowners familiar with their well system may be able to check the manufacturer’s specifications and verify the tank’s pre-charge after shutting off power and draining water pressure from the system.
Professional solution: If you are unsure about the correct settings or why the tank lost pressure, have the system inspected. Simply adding air may temporarily change the symptoms without addressing an underlying tank problem.
Problems With the Pressure Switch
The pressure switch tells the pump when to start and stop based on water pressure. Corrosion, sediment, damaged electrical contacts, incorrect settings, or a failing switch can interfere with normal pump operation. You may notice unpredictable pressure changes as well as inconsistent pump cycling.
DIY check: You can visually inspect the area around the switch for obvious leaks or damage. Avoid removing covers or adjusting electrical components unless you are qualified to do so.
Professional solution: A technician can test actual cut-in and cut-out pressures, inspect the switch and pressure-sensing components, and determine whether cleaning, adjustment, or replacement is appropriate.
Water Leaks in the System
Plumbing leaks cause a constant demand for water volume, so the system loses pressure even when you are not intentionally using water. The pump will turn on more frequently to restore that pressure.
The leak could be something simple inside the home, such as a running toilet or dripping fixture. It could also be in an underground water line, well piping, or another part of the system that is much harder to see.
DIY solution: Make sure faucets, toilets, irrigation equipment, water treatment systems, and other water-using appliances are not running. If the pump continues cycling when everything should be off, you’ll want a professional to investigate further.
Professional solution: A well professional can isolate portions of the system and perform pressure and flow testing to determine whether water is being lost on the well side of the system.
A Failing Check Valve
A check valve helps prevent water from flowing backward toward the well after the pump shuts off. If the valve does not seal properly, pressure can fall as water drains backward. The pressure switch eventually detects the drop and starts the pump again even if no one in the household is using water.
Professional solution: A technician can test the system for pressure loss and determine whether a check valve, drop pipe, fitting, or another well component is allowing water to flow backward.
A Pump or System That Is Not Properly Sized
A system designed for a retired couple may not be able to keep up with the water needs of a larger family. The increased household demand can result in more frequent starts and stops.
Professional solution: A well pump professional can evaluate pump capacity, pressure tank size, well production, pressure settings, and household demand to determine whether the components are working effectively as a system.
Why Short Cycling Should Not Be Ignored
Frequent starts are hard on an electric motor. A well pump that repeatedly starts and stops will experience greater wear than one that operates for longer, more controlled cycles.
Ignoring short cycling can potentially lead to:
- Premature pump wear
- Pressure switch failure
- Higher electricity use
- Inconsistent household water pressure
- Damage to pressure-system components
- An unexpected loss of water if the pump eventually fails
A Professional Well Inspection Will Find the Actual Cause
Short cycling is a symptom rather than a diagnosis. A professional well pump inspection from Arizona Pump Services will evaluate the pressure tank and switch, monitor pressure changes, test system flow, and check how the pump responds under operating conditions. That makes it possible to repair the source of the problem rather than repeatedly treating the symptom.
If your well pump has suddenly started turning on and off more frequently, do not wait for the pump to stop working altogether. Arizona Pump Services can inspect your well and pressure system, identify what is causing the abnormal cycling, and recommend the appropriate repair.
Contact Arizona Pump Services to schedule well pump service and get your system operating properly again.
