Well Pump Problems? We Fix Them.
24/7 well pump repair and replacement for homes across the Triad. If we can’t fix it, you don’t pay.
When Your Well Pump Stops, Your Water Stops
If you rely on well water, your pump is everything. When it fails, you have no water for showers, toilets, cooking, or laundry. That’s not an inconvenience you can wait on.
We repair and replace well pumps throughout the Triad, including both submersible pumps (located inside the well) and jet pumps (mounted above ground). Most well pumps last 8 to 15 years with proper maintenance. If yours is failing or has already quit, we can diagnose the problem and give you honest options.
Our family has been plumbing the Triad since 1986. Joshua Davis and his father Larry bring over 100 years of combined experience. When you call, we answer. Day or night.
Signs Your Well Pump Needs Attention
Well pumps usually give warning signs before they fail completely. Here’s what to watch for:
No Water or Very Low Water Pressure
If you turn on a faucet and nothing comes out, or you notice a significant drop in water pressure throughout the house, your pump may have failed or is struggling to pull water from the well.
- What it could mean: Pump motor failure, electrical issue, failed pressure switch, or a dry well. We diagnose the exact cause before recommending repair or replacement.
Pump Running Constantly (Won't Shut Off)
Your well pump should cycle on and off as water pressure rises and falls. If it runs continuously without shutting off, something is wrong.
- What it could mean: Stuck pressure switch, failed check valve, leak in the pressure tank, or a problem with the pump itself. Running constantly will burn out the motor quickly if not addressed.
Pump Cycling On and Off Rapidly (Short Cycling)
If you hear the pump kicking on and off every few seconds or minutes, that’s short cycling. This puts extreme stress on the motor.
- What it could mean: Waterlogged pressure tank (bladder has failed), bad pressure switch, or undersized pressure tank. Often fixable without replacing the pump itself.
Air Spurting from Faucets
When you turn on the tap and get bursts of air mixed with water, it usually means air is entering the system somewhere.
- What it could mean: Failing pressure tank bladder, drop in water table, cracked pipe, or damaged pump. We check the full system to pinpoint the source.
Dirty, Sandy, or Sediment-Filled Water
If your water suddenly contains sand, grit, or visible sediment, the pump may be pulling debris from the bottom of the well.
- What it could mean: Pump positioned too low, damaged intake screen, or declining water table forcing the pump to work harder. Sediment can damage internal pump components if it continues.
Higher Electric Bills
A failing pump works harder to do the same job. If your electric bill has increased without explanation, the pump may be drawing more power due to wear.
- What it could mean: Motor bearings wearing out, pump struggling against sediment buildup, or electrical issues causing inefficiency.
Strange Noises from the Pressure Tank Area
Clicking sounds near the pressure switch, grinding from the jet pump, or unusual cycling noises can indicate mechanical or electrical problems.
- What it could mean: Failing pressure switch, worn pump motor bearings, or loose connections. Unusual noises warrant inspection before complete failure.
Types of Well Pumps We Repair and Replace
We work on all common well pump types found in Triad homes:
Submersible Well Pumps
Submersible pumps sit inside the well, submerged in water. They push water up to the surface and into your pressure tank. Most modern residential wells use submersible pumps because they’re quieter, more efficient, and longer-lasting than jet pumps.
Jet Pumps (Shallow Well)
Shallow well jet pumps are mounted above ground, typically in a well house or basement. They work well for wells 25 feet deep or less. These pumps use suction to pull water up from the well.
Jet Pumps (Deep Well)
Deep well jet pumps use a two-pipe system and can pull water from wells up to 100 feet deep. The pump motor is above ground, but an ejector assembly sits inside the well.
Common repairs: Injector assembly issues, motor failure, priming problems.
Pressure Tanks
While not a pump, the pressure tank is critical to your well system. It stores water under pressure and prevents the pump from cycling every time you turn on a faucet. When the tank fails, it can mimic pump problems.
Should You Repair or Replace Your Well Pump?
Not every well pump problem requires a full replacement. Here’s how we help you decide:
- When Repair Makes Sense
- Pump is less than 8-10 years old
- Problem is isolated to one component (pressure switch, check valve, capacitor)
- Repair cost is less than 50% of replacement cost
- No recurring issues
Common repairs like pressure switch replacement, control box repair, or check valve replacement can extend your pump’s life for several more years at a fraction of the cost.
- When Replacement Makes Sense
- Pump is 10-15+ years old
- Motor has failed
- Recurring problems despite repairs
- Significant sediment damage to internal components
- Repair costs approaching 50% or more of replacement cost
According to industry data, most well pumps last 8 to 15 years. If yours is in that range and having significant issues, replacement is usually the smarter investment.
What Affects How Long Your Well Pump Lasts
Several factors determine whether your pump lasts 8 years or 20:
- Duty Cycle (How Often It Runs)
Every time your pump turns on and off, it creates wear on the motor. Homes with high water usage, undersized pressure tanks, or leaks cycle their pumps more frequently, shortening lifespan.
- Water Quality
Hard water, high iron content, and sediment all take a toll on pump components. Water with lots of grit or minerals wears out impellers, seals, and motor bearings faster.
- Proper Sizing
A pump that’s too small for your household’s water demand runs constantly. A pump that’s too large can short-cycle. Either scenario shortens pump life.
- Installation Quality
Proper wiring, correct pump placement, and appropriate pipe sizing all affect how hard your pump has to work. Poor installation creates problems from day one.
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Your Plumbing Problem, Solved in 3 Simple Steps!
Call and speak with a real person
No automated systems or call centers. When you call All-Star Plumbing, a real person answers 24/7, listens to the issue, and schedules help right away so you’re never waiting.
Get Clear Pricing Before Starting
Before any work begins, we explain the problem, walk you through your options, and give clear upfront pricing. You know the cost before we start, no surprises and no pressure.
We Fix the Problem
Our licensed plumbers arrive prepared to fix the issue correctly the first time. If we can’t fix it, you don’t pay. Simple, honest, and backed by our guarantee.
Call and speak with a real person
No automated systems or call centers. When you call All-Star Plumbing, a real person answers 24/7, listens to the issue, and schedules help right away so you’re never waiting.
Get Clear Pricing Before Starting
Before any work begins, we explain the problem, walk you through your options, and give clear upfront pricing. You know the cost before we start, no surprises and no pressure.
We Fix the Problem
Our licensed plumbers arrive prepared to fix the issue correctly the first time. If we can’t fix it, you don’t pay. Simple, honest, and backed by our guarantee.
Helpful Plumbing Tips From Local Experts
Our blog shares clear advice homeowners can use right away.
When Should You Replace Old Plumbing Fixtures?
What Causes Low Water Pressure in Your Home
Simple Plumbing Maintenance Tips for Homeowners
When Should You Replace Old Plumbing Fixtures?
What Causes Low Water Pressure in Your Home
Simple Plumbing Maintenance Tips for Homeowners
Locations and Areas Served
Plumber Service Company Serving the Entire Triad
Well Pump Questions
How long does a well pump last?
Most well pumps last 8 to 15 years. Submersible pumps often last 10 to 15 years or longer, while jet pumps typically last 8 to 12 years. Factors like water quality, usage, and maintenance affect lifespan.
How do I know if my well pump is bad?
Common signs include no water, low water pressure, pump running constantly, short cycling (rapid on-off), air spurting from faucets, sediment in water, or increased electric bills. Any of these warrant inspection.
Can a well pump be repaired, or does it need replacement?
Many well pump problems can be repaired, especially if the pump is under 10 years old and the issue is isolated to one component. Motor failures in older pumps usually make replacement more economical.
How long does it take to replace a well pump?
Jet pump replacement (above ground) typically takes 2 to 4 hours. Submersible pump replacement can take 4 to 8 hours depending on well depth, as the pump must be pulled from the well.
Do you service deep wells?
Yes. We work on wells of all depths common in residential properties. Deep well submersible pumps and deep well jet pumps are both within our scope.
What's the difference between a submersible pump and a jet pump?
Submersible pumps sit inside the well, submerged in water. They push water up. Jet pumps are mounted above ground and pull water up using suction. Submersible pumps are more common in modern wells, more efficient, and longer-lasting.
Do you offer 24/7 emergency well pump service?
Yes. No water is an emergency. Call (336) 462-1080 any time, day or night. We prioritize complete well pump failures.
Could the problem be the pressure tank instead of the pump?
Yes. Many symptoms that seem like pump failure (short cycling, air in lines, pressure fluctuations) are actually caused by a failed pressure tank bladder. We check the tank as part of our diagnosis.