Well pump repair
No water, a tripping breaker or a pump that won't quit? Get it diagnosed by someone who works East Texas wells.
Well pump repair means finding out why your well isn't delivering water the way it should and fixing it, whether the problem is the pump itself, the wiring, the pressure switch, the control box, a check valve or the tank. Around Tyler, most homes have a submersible pump down in the well, so a good diagnosis starts at the surface before anyone pulls the pump.
What are the signs I need a well pump repair?
- No water at any faucet
- Air spitting from faucets
- The breaker for the pump trips
- The pump hums but no water comes
- The pump runs constantly, or cycles on and off every few seconds
- Pressure that fades during a shower
What usually causes a pump problem?
- Electrical. A tripped breaker, failed capacitor or control box, or damaged wire. Animals chewing through buried wire is a common rural cause.
- Pressure switch. Switch contacts can burn or stick, and insects sometimes nest in them.
- Pressure tank. A tank that has lost its air charge makes the pump short-cycle and wear out early.
- Check valve or broken pipe. A pump that runs nonstop may be pushing water back down the well or out a break in the line.
- Worn pump or motor. Pumps wear out, and sand or acidic, iron-rich water can shorten their life.
- Low water level. In a long dry spell or a well that's drawn down, the pump can run out of water.
What does the repair process look like?
A pump technician usually checks power and voltage, the pressure switch, the control box (for three-wire pumps) and the tank first. If those check out, they test the pump's electrical readings from the surface. If the pump or motor has failed, it has to be pulled out of the well with the drop pipe and wire, which often takes a pump rig. Once it's out, the technician can replace the pump, wire, check valves and fittings as needed.
Repair or replace?
Small parts like switches, capacitors and control boxes are usually repaired. If the pump or motor itself has failed, replacement is normally the answer, since submersible pumps aren't typically rebuilt in the field. Age, how often the pump has been cycling, and the condition of the tank all factor in.
What affects the cost of a pump repair?
- The failed part. Switches and capacitors cost far less than a pump.
- Pulling the pump. Depth and access drive labor.
- Wire and pipe. Damaged runs may need replacing.
- Timing. Emergency and after-hours service costs more.
Prices come from the well company after they've diagnosed the problem. We don't quote prices ourselves, and a phone estimate is only a starting point.
Where we connect you with help
Common questions
Why does my well pump keep tripping the breaker?
It can be a failing motor, a bad capacitor or control box, damaged wire, or a pump that's seized. Leave the breaker off after one reset and have it tested, since repeated resets can damage the pump.
Can I fix my own well pump in Texas?
Texas law exempts owners working on pumps on their own property for their own use. Pulling a submersible pump is heavy, technical work, and mistakes can damage the well, so most owners call a licensed pump installer.
How long does a well pump repair take?
Simple fixes like a pressure switch can take an hour or two. Pulling and replacing a submersible pump usually takes longer, depending on depth and access.
Related services
More background: Smith County water well guide.
No water at the tap?
Call now instead of sending a form. A dead pump is a same-day problem.