Emergency well pump repair when you have no water
A well that stops delivering water is a real problem on a rural property, especially with livestock, a winter freeze, or a house full of people. Before you call, a few quick checks help the tech and sometimes save a trip.
- Check the breaker. A tripped double-pole breaker for the pump is common after a power surge or lightning storm.
- Look at the pressure gauge. Zero pressure with the pump silent points to power or the pressure switch. Zero pressure with the pump running points to a lost prime, a leak in the drop pipe, or a failed pump.
- Listen for the pump. Humming without starting often means a bad capacitor or a seized motor in a submersible.
- Note when it started. Sputtering air before failure suggests a falling water level or a split pipe.
When you call, say whether you have a submersible or jet pump, the well depth if you know it, and whether the power is on at the panel. Ask if the provider carries pumps and motors on the truck, since a same-visit fix depends on that. Pulling a submersible from a deep well generally needs a pump hoist or rig, so confirm the crew has one.
What it costs
Cost depends on what failed: a pressure switch or capacitor is a small repair, while pulling a submersible pump, replacing a motor, or replacing drop pipe and wire costs more. After-hours calls, well depth, and access to the wellhead also affect the bill. Ask for a diagnosis fee and an estimate before work begins.
Top 3 by our score
Ranked from our published scoring of public Google reviews for well pump repair & replacement.
- 1. Aqua Plumbing914.9★ · 217 reviews
- 2. AAA Sweetwater Well Drilling & Pump Service894.8★ · 103 reviews
- 3. H2o Well Services854.9★ · 40 reviews
FAQ
- Why did my well suddenly stop giving water?
- Common causes are a tripped breaker, failed pressure switch or capacitor, a dead pump or motor, or a broken drop pipe. A tech can tell which by testing power and pressure at the wellhead.
- Can I run the pump to test it?
- Avoid repeatedly resetting a breaker. A submersible that runs dry or with a shorted motor can be damaged further. Check once, then call.
- Do providers come out on weekends or at night?
- Some do. Ask each provider about after-hours availability when you call, since it varies.