Get matched with top well and pump technicians in Shiprock, NM

Most well pump pressure switches have a factory setting of 30 to 50 PSI. There’s some flexibility with this if you’d like a lower or higher water pressure, but remember that it should sit 2 to 3 PSI above your well tank’s general pressure setting.

The inside of your pressure switch cover will usually indicate minimum and maximum settings—going below and above the numbers might damage your well pump.

Here are some signs of a bad well pump that a pro should look at: 

• If your well pump isn’t pumping water, you could have a leak or malfunctioning pump on your hands. 

• If your water pump runs nonstop, there might be a leak or problem with the pressure tank, which can cause the pump to fail. 

• Low water pressure can happen because of your pressure tank, low-water levels, or a wrong-sized pump. 

• Dirt or sediment in your water can be a problem with a powerful pump, damaged pump filter, or the pump’s location.

A well pressure tank is located between the well and the well pump, and it stores your water under pressure so that the well pump can eventually do its job. The well pump is activated whenever you turn a faucet on—it pulls the water from the tank into your home. Both are vital parts of a complete well water system.

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.