Well pump water pressure fluctuation is not only exasperating, but it also affects the working functionality of the pump, leading it to permanent damage. Not to mention, you are faced with water shortage if it’s the only source you have.
Do you ever wonder why this happens and what can be done to fix it? After all, access to clean water is necessary for living, and you won’t be spending a huge amount of money on repairing and maintenance every other day.
So, why not save yourself from this hassle, get to know about this issue, and get rid of this problem once and for all. Remember, we are talking about well water pump pressure goes up and down; a different strategy is applied if the well pump runs but has no water pressure at all.
Before you are faced with water shortage or let your pump get permanent damage, let’s see the possible reasons behind water pressure fluctuation.
What causes water pressure to fluctuate?
There are multiple factors involved that can cause the water pressure to go up and down. You can easily solve the problem if you make an early diagnosis.
Also, note that the problem may lie in the pump, or it can be in any other part of the plumbing system. Thus, we are going to check out all major possible reasons, and then we will see how we can get it fixed or avoid them in the first place.
Pressure regulator valve
Commonly referred to as PRV, it is a component that controls and stabilizes the water pressure of the main supply line coming into your home. PRV failure or malfunctioning can lead to this issue, causing water pressure to suddenly rise at one second and drop the next moment.
Water pipelines
An important part of your plumbing system, the pipes through which water flows can also be a reason behind this problem. There are several things that can happen with pipes, such as leakage, air trapped, and blockage. All this leads to water pressure fluctuation. If you do nothing about it, this will lead to water blockage, and you will have no water at all coming out of those pipes.
In addition to that, it is possible for connections to corrode, weaken, or become damaged over time. So, the bad connection is another reason added to the list.
Plumbing fixture
It’s highly possible that the problem does not lie with the well pump but with your plumbing fixtures. Dirty showerheads, clogged aerators, and old faucets; anything can be a reason behind water pressure fluctuation. You need to check the connections and see if water is flowing at constant pressure from any faucet. If it is, then your plumbing fixtures may be faulty. Or else, the problem is within the well pump.
High usage
If the same line is used at several points, it will increase the water usage, and you will face fluctuation at your end. Check-in your neighbors’ water usage and see if they are on the same line.
Issues with well pump
If all of the above seems good, then the problem can be within the well pump. Well pump wearing out, not giving attention to maintenance, corroded pipes, and so many other things can happen. If it is the well pump creating the problem, you need to get it checked and repair or replace what is necessary.
Pressure switch problem
Well pump generally contains a pressure switch through which you regulate the water pressure. If you have set it too low, or if it’s not working properly, you will surely be going to face water fluctuation.
How to fix the well pump water pressure issue?
An important first step to resolving any issue is identifying the problem. We have discussed possible reasons above that can create water pressure issues; determining the problem will allow you to take appropriate steps and fix the problem the right way.
Besides, the following are the tips you can follow to root out this problem.
- First, locate and inspect PRV, and see if it’s in good working condition. Test it yourself or call a plumber as it’s important to your plumbing system.
- Inspect the overall plumbing system, including fixtures, pipes, and connections. If anything you see needs your attention, check it out thoroughly and get the things done.
- Do not forget to check valves, screws, and nuts because they are the problem behind leakage that leads to water fluctuation.
- Make sure all fixtures are clear of dirt and debris so that it does not stop water from flowing.
- If it’s a shared pipeline, discuss water usage, and you will solve the pressure problem.
Conclusion
In addition to wasting time, well pump water pressure instability leads to total discomfort, creating many other problems. If it’s regular, you need to pay attention immediately, or else the pump will get damaged to the level that it will no longer be repairable. From checking the pressure valve to inspecting water lines, there is a lot that you can do to identify the problem.
Once you are able to detect the issue, you can take applicable actions. The tips mentioned here will help you use the well pump in an efficient manner, and if you keep following these, you may not face this problem at all.