Troubleshooting Submersible Well Pumps 101: Water Well Pump Does Not Start

May 4, 2022 By: Shopify API

Blog Tags: Water Pumps & Equipments Well Pumps

Is your submersible well pump not starting? I have outlined some troubleshooting steps below to help investigate the possible cause.

Caution! Electricity can be very dangerous, especially if you are inexperienced. Always use caution working with electricity and turn off power supply breakers when testing components within the electrical system. If you are not 100% confident you can perform any of these tests safely, call a professional.

Step-by-Step Troubleshooting

1. Check for blown fuses and tripped breakers.

2. Check the Voltage. Voltage needs to be at +/- 10% of motor rating. Check that sufficient power is getting through the system by reading voltage at the pressure switch, control box, and at any other components that power is running through. If you find that your power is too high or low at the power panel you may need to contact the power company.

3. Check the Pressure Switch. Give the pressure switch a comprehensive visual examination for defects and wear. Look for deformation, burned or melted components, or a lot of blackness. Keep in mind that the pressure switch is a key element to a properly working system and they are relatively inexpensive — replace rather than repair. Check the nipple or tube leading to the switch for sediment or debris. Check that the contacts are opening and closing properly.

Shop Replacement Pressure Switches

Square D 30/50 PSI Pressure Switch (Preset) — standard for most residential systems
Square D 40/60 PSI Pressure Switch (Preset) — ideal for two-story homes or higher-demand systems
Square D G2+ 40/60 PSI Pressure Switch — upgraded durability

→ Shop our full Pressure Switches collection

4. Check the Control Panel. Give the control panel a visual exam for obvious signs of defects and wear. Look for loose connections, burnt or melted components. Your previous check of the voltage at the control panel may have already led you to the conclusion that this may be where your problem lies.

Click here for video: How to Troubleshoot Franklin Electric Control Boxes (1.5 - 15 HP)

Click here for video: RE: How to Troubleshoot Franklin Electric Control Boxes (1.5 - 15 HP)

Click here for video: How to Troubleshoot a QD Control Box

Shop Franklin Electric Control Boxes

Franklin Electric QD Control Boxes — quick-disconnect design for easy service
Franklin Electric CRC Control Boxes — corrosion-resistant for demanding environments
Franklin Electric Standard Control Boxes — reliable everyday control boxes for 3-wire motors

5. Check Splice Connections. Check all electrical splice connections for corrosion and other obvious signs that power is not getting to the pump. Normally, there will be a splice connection at the top of the well between the submersible cable and the UF or THHN, where the wire enters the home, and between the pump motor and the submersible cable.

6. Check the Pump and Motor. If the troubleshooting in the 5 steps above do not resolve your problem, it may be time to replace the pump and motor. The Franklin Electric AIM Manual is what I recommend to help you or your pump technician determine the cause of the problem. Click here for a link to the manual.

Click here for video: Troubleshooting 4" Submersible Motor: Insulation & Windings Resistance