What Caused Complete Water Loss in This 2016 Home?
In this 2016 detached home, the taps had stopped flowing entirely. Like many rural properties south of Ottawa, the home relies on a private well system rather than municipal water.
Our inspection revealed the nine-year-old submersible pump had failed internally, and the well pressure tank was significantly undercharged, a condition that may have contributed to the pump’s premature failure.
What Our Detailed Inspection Found
Here’s what our Red Seal Licensed Plumber discovered during their thorough inspection:
1. Burned-Out Startup Coil
The pump was receiving 230V power, but the amperage draw measured zero, indicating no motor function.
We bypassed the pressure switch by connecting the wiring directly to rule out a faulty switch. The pump still failed to operate.
The startup coil, which initiates motor rotation, had burned out. The pump required full replacement.
2. Disconnected Ground Wire
During the inspection, we discovered the ground wire at the well casing had become disconnected.
While this would not have caused the pump failure, proper grounding is essential for electrical safety. The ground was reconnected during the repair.
3. Undercharged Pressure Tank
The pressure tank contained only 16 PSI of air. For the existing 30/50 pressure switch setting, the tank should have been charged to 27 or 28 PSI.
Insufficient air pressure causes short-cycling, where the pump turns on and off rapidly. This places excessive stress on the motor and can cause premature failure, potentially explaining why this pump failed at only nine years old.
How We Replaced the Pump & Restored Water
We pulled the existing pump and inspected the wiring for breaks or chafing. No damage was found, but all wiring and piping were replaced as part of the new installation to ensure long-term reliability.
The old pump, piping, and wiring were removed and disposed of properly.
We installed a new submersible well pump rated at 230V, 10 GPM, and 1/2 HP with completely new electrical wiring and piping. A torque arrestor was added to prevent pump rotation and pipe stress during startup cycles.
To address the pressure system issues, we increased the tank air charge to 37 PSI and adjusted the pressure switch to a 40/60 setting. This higher pressure setting works better with the home’s two existing water treatment units.
After installation, the pump was cycled 10 times to verify consistent operation.
David’s Water Is Fully Restored
The new well pump delivered consistent water flow immediately upon activation. All connections were tested and confirmed leak-free.
The recalibrated pressure system now operates with reduced pump cycling, which should extend the life of the new pump. The corrected tank charge and higher pressure setting also provide improved water pressure throughout the home.
Not sure how long a well pump should last? Check out our blog post: How Long Do Well Pumps Last?
Get Well Pump Service in Merrickville Today
A failed well pump means no water for drinking, cooking, or bathing. If you’ve noticed low pressure, no water, or a pump that keeps cycling on and off, it’s time to call a professional.Plumbing Now’s Licensed Plumbers provide complete well pump diagnostics and replacement throughout Ottawa and rural communities like Kemptville, North Gower, South Gower, and the areas surrounding Merrickville. We’re also pet-friendly!
Call us at 613-212-4857.