Inspect Well Pump and Pressure Tank

Your well pump and pressure tank are the heart of your home's water supply — a failure means no water. Inspect annually before winter. Pressure tank: Check the air charge by pressing the Schrader valve (like a tire valve) on top when the pump is off and the pressure is at its low set point. The air pressure should be 2 psi below the pump's cut-in pressure (e.g., if your pump turns on at 40 psi, the tank air charge should be 38 psi). If air pressure is zero or water sprays out, the bladder has failed and the tank needs replacement. Pressure switch: Check the cut-in and cut-out pressures (typically 40/60 or 30/50 psi). Clean spider webs and debris from the switch contacts. Wiring: Inspect the disconnect box for signs of corrosion or burning. Pump cycling: If your pump cycles rapidly (on-off every few seconds), the pressure tank bladder has failed. Normal cycling is 30–60 seconds on, minutes of run time. Log the pressure settings for future reference. If the pump runs constantly or the pressure is consistently low, call a well pump professional.