Pump Won't Start
A pump that won't start is often caused by a tripped breaker, a faulty pressure switch, a bad capacitor, or loss of prime. Check electrical components before assuming the motor is dead.
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Symptoms
- Pump makes no sound at all when activated
- Pump hums briefly but doesn't spin
- Breaker trips immediately when pump tries to start
Diagnosis
If the pump is completely silent, check the power supply and pressure switch. If it hums but doesn't spin, the start capacitor may have failed. If the breaker trips, there may be a short in the motor.
Step-by-Step Repair
- 1
Check the electrical panel for a tripped breaker on the pump circuit. Reset it.
- 2
If the breaker trips again immediately, do not keep resetting it — this indicates a short circuit. Call an electrician.
- 3
Check the pressure switch (usually mounted on the pipe near the pump). Tap it gently — corroded contacts can stick. Clean or replace if needed.
- 4
If the pump hums but doesn't start, the start capacitor likely needs replacement. Turn off power, locate the capacitor (cylindrical component in a housing on the motor), and replace with the same rating.
- 5
Check that the pump shaft turns freely by hand (with power OFF). A seized pump needs motor replacement.
- 6
Verify wiring connections at the pump are tight and not corroded.
Pro Tips
- Start capacitors are inexpensive ($10-20) and fail frequently. Keep a spare.
- If the pump is more than 15 years old and the motor has failed, it's often cheaper to replace the entire pump than just the motor.
Prevention Tips
- Install a lightning/surge arrester on the pump circuit.
- Make sure the pump has adequate ventilation for cooling.
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