When the Pump Runs Dry: Solutions.
Dealing with a dry water well can be a stressful and frustrating situation. Whether it's a temporary shortage due to a drought or a more permanent issue like a decline in water levels, a dry well can cause disruptions in daily life and require costly repairs. But before reaching out to a professional, there are some solutions that homeowners can try to restore water flow and avoid further damage to the well system.
Assess the Situation.
The first step in addressing a dry well is to identify the cause of the problem. In some cases, it may be obvious that the well has run dry, but in others, the issue could be related to the pump or other components of the system. Reaching out to a professional to perform a thorough inspection and diagnose the problem can save time and money in the long run.
Check the Breaker.
If the well pump isn't running at all, the issue could be as simple as a tripped breaker. Check the breaker box to see if the switch that controls the well pump is in the "on" position. If it's been tripped, resetting it may restore the water flow.
Evaluate the Pressure Tank.
If the breaker isn't the issue, it's possible that the pressure tank has lost air pressure or has malfunctioned. A pressure tank is a key component of well systems as it helps regulate the pressure of water as it's pumped into the tank. If the pressure tank isn't working properly, this can result in poor water flow or no water flow at all.
To check the pressure tank, start by turning off the power to the pump. Then drain the water from the tank and use a tire pressure gauge to measure the air pressure inside the tank. The pressure should be set around 2 psi below the cut-in pressure of the switch that controls the well pump.
If the pressure is low, add more air to the tank with a compressor or manually with a hand pump. If the pressure still isn't adequate after adding air, the tank may need to be replaced.
Consider Well Rehabilitation.
If the well has run dry due to natural causes like a drought or overuse, it's possible that well rehabilitation could restore the water flow. Well rehabilitation involves cleaning out the well, removing sediment and buildup that can reduce water flow, and restoring the well's natural flow characteristics.
There are different methods of well rehabilitation, including hydrofracturing, acid treatment, and brushing. These methods can help restore water flow and improve the function of the well system.
Install a Lower Pump.
In some cases, the pump may be too high in the well to reach the remaining water. Installing a lower pump can help access the water at the bottom of the well, improving water flow and reducing the risk of damage to the pump. This solution may require the assistance of a professional to install and configure the new pump.
Conclusion.
When a well runs dry, it can be a stressful situation for homeowners. However, there are some solutions that can help restore water flow and avoid costly repairs. By assessing the situation, checking the breaker, evaluating the pressure tank, considering well rehabilitation, or installing a lower pump, homeowners can potentially address the issue and restore their water supply. It's important to consult with a professional if unsure about the cause of the problem or how to proceed with solutions.
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