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Why is my irrigation pump not pulling water?

There are a few reasons your irrigation pump isn’t pulling in water. You could have a clogged suction filter. You may have not properly primed your pump so air got stuck somewhere in the system. Your pump also won’t work properly if it has faulty or damaged pump components, like a pump motor or pressure switch.

You should check water pressure twice a year to ensure there aren’t any irregularities and that it isn’t too high. It’s also smart to check it any time you notice symptoms of high water pressure (like banging pipes, inconsistent water flow, and leaky fixtures). Similarly, if you live in an area that’s prone to water pressure fluctuations due to municipal supply changes, elevation, or seasonal temperature shifts, check it more frequently. You can buy an affordable water pressure gauge and check the water pressure yourself.

If your well pump gets stuck in its casing, you may be able to free it loose by gently wiggling the line or by vibrations from tapping the line with a hammer. However, if your pump is stuck in a buildup of minerals around the casing, you’ll probably have to call in a well pump contractor to get it out. They’ll likely use a muriatic acid solution—a strong, corrosive acid—to break down the minerals and free the pump loose. 

To avoid a stuck pump in the future, experts recommend a professional well cleaning once every 10 years. 

Unfortunately, yes. If your well pump continues working when the flow of water is completely blocked, the motor will burn up. The energy has nowhere to go, thanks to the blockage, so it turns inward. The end result? A ruined well pump and a depleted bank account (once you shop for a replacement.)