"Inspecting and Replacing Your Water Well Pressure Switch: A Comprehensive Guide"

Written by George Cunningham

If you have a private water well, you know how important it is to have a properly functioning pressure switch. The pressure switch is responsible for turning your well pump on and off, which ensures that your home has a steady supply of water. Over time, however, the pressure switch can become faulty, which can lead to a loss of water pressure or even a damaged well pump. In this blog post, we will walk you through how to inspect, check, and replace a water well pressure switch.

Step 1: Turn off the Power

Before you begin inspecting your water well pressure switch, it is important to turn off the power to your well pump. You can do this by shutting off the circuit breaker that supplies power to your well pump. This will help prevent any accidents from occurring while you are inspecting the pressure switch.

Step 2: Locate the Pressure Switch

The pressure switch is usually located near your well tank, which is typically in your basement or crawlspace. The pressure switch is a small, box-shaped device that is connected to the water pipe coming out of the well pump.

Step 3: Inspect the Pressure Switch

The first thing you should do when inspecting your pressure switch is to look for any signs of damage or wear. Check the electrical connections to ensure they are tight and secure. Look for any cracks or signs of corrosion on the switch itself. If you notice any damage or wear, it is time to replace the pressure switch.

Step 4: Check the Pressure Settings

The pressure switch has two adjustable settings that control the cut-in and cut-out pressure levels. The cut-in pressure is the point at which the pressure switch turns the well pump on, and the cut-out pressure is the point at which the switch turns the well pump off. These settings are typically marked on the pressure switch itself.

To check the pressure settings, you will need a pressure gauge. Attach the pressure gauge to the schrader valve located on the side of the pressure tank. Open the valve and allow the gauge to register the water pressure. The cut-in pressure should be set 2 PSI below the pump's turn-on pressure, and the cut-out pressure should be set 2 PSI above the pump's turn-off pressure. If the pressure settings are not correct, you will need to adjust them using the screws located on the pressure switch.

Step 5: Test the Pressure Switch

To test the pressure switch, you will need a multimeter. Set the multimeter to the continuity setting and place one probe on each of the switch's terminals. With the power turned off to the well pump, press the switch's lever down. You should hear a clicking sound, indicating that the switch is functioning properly. The multimeter should also indicate that there is continuity between the switch's terminals.

Step 6: Replace the Pressure Switch

If you have determined that your pressure switch is faulty and needs to be replaced, follow these steps:

1. Turn off the power to your well pump.

2. Remove the electrical wires from the pressure switch.

3. Remove the old pressure switch from the water pipe.

4. Install the new pressure switch onto the water pipe.

5. Connect the electrical wires to the new pressure switch.

6. Turn the power back on to your well pump.

7. Test the new pressure switch to ensure that it is functioning properly.

Step 7: Call in a Professional

If you are uncomfortable inspecting or replacing your pressure switch yourself, it is always best to call in a professional. A qualified well pump technician will be able to diagnose and fix any problems with your pressure switch quickly and safely.

Conclusion

Your water well pressure switch plays a vital role in ensuring that your home has a steady supply of water. By following the steps outlined in this blog post, you can easily inspect, check, and replace your water well pressure switch to ensure that your home has a reliable water supply. Remember to always turn off the power to your well pump before inspecting or replacing any parts and call in a professional if you are unsure or uncomfortable with the process. With proper maintenance, your water well system can provide you with clean, fresh water for many years to come.