SUBMERSIBLE PUMP TROUBLESHOOTING
 

B - PUMP OPERATES BUT DELIVERS LITTLE OR NO WATER

CAUSE OF TROUBLE

HOW TO CHECK

HOW TO CORRECT

1. Pump may be air locked.

Stop and start pump several times, waiting between cycles. If pump resumes normal delivery air lock was trouble.

If this test fails to correct the trouble, proceed as below.

2. Water level in well too low.

Well production may be too low for pump capacity. Restrict flow of pump output, wait for well to recover, and start pump.

If partial restriction corrects trouble, leave valve or cock at restricted setting. Otherwise, lower pump in well if depth is sufficient. Do not lower if sand clogging might occur.

3. Discharge line check valve installed backward.

Examine check valve on discharge line to make sure arrow indicating direction of flow points in right direction.

Reverse valve is necessary.

4. Leak in drop pipe.

Raise pipe and examine for leaks.

Replace damaged section of drop pipe.

5. Pump check valve jammed by drop pipe.

When pump is pulled after completing “4” above, examine drop pipe connection to pump outlet. If threaded section of drop pipe has been screwed in too far, it may be jamming the check valve in the closed  position.

Unscrew drop pipe and cut off portion of threads.

6. Pump intake screen blocked.

The intake screen on the pump may be blocked by sand or mud. Examine.

Clean screen. Make sure pump is reinstalled several feet above well bottom, preferably 10 feet or more.

7. Pump parts worn.

Presence of abrasives in water may result in excessive wear on impeller, casing and other close-clearance parts. Before pulling pump reduce setting on pressure switch to see if pump shuts off. If it  does, check for worn parts.

Pull pump and replace worn components.

8. Motor shaft loose.

Coupling between motor and pump shaft may have worked loose. Inspect after pulling pump and looking for worn components as in “7” above.

Tighten all connections, set screws, etc.