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SOP/Systems & Maintenance/Well Pump

Well Pump

Well pump operation and troubleshooting

Updated 2026-03-01well, pump, water, systems, plumbing

Overview

The cabin's water comes from a private well with a submersible pump. The pump sends water to a pressure tank in the utility closet, which maintains consistent water pressure throughout the cabin.

Normal Operation

The well pump runs automatically. You should hear it cycle on and off occasionally — this is normal. The pressure tank maintains pressure between 30–50 PSI.

You don't need to do anything to operate the well pump during a normal visit. Just turn it on at arrival and off at departure.

Pressure Tank

The pressure gauge on the tank should read between 30–50 PSI:

  • Below 20 PSI: pump may not be running (check breaker)
  • Above 60 PSI: pressure switch may be stuck (turn off pump and call property manager)
  • Rapid cycling (pump turns on/off frequently): pressure tank may need air charge

Troubleshooting

No water at any faucet

Check the well pump breaker in the electrical panel. If it's tripped, reset it once. If it trips again, do not reset — call the property manager.

Low water pressure

Check the pressure gauge on the tank. If below 20 PSI, the pump may not be running. Check the breaker.

Water looks rusty or cloudy

Run the cold water for several minutes to flush the lines. This is common after the cabin has been unoccupied. If it persists beyond 10 minutes, contact the property manager.

Pump runs but no water comes out

The pump may have lost its prime. Turn off the breaker, wait 30 minutes, then turn it back on. If still no water, call the property manager.

Never reset a tripped well pump breaker more than once. Repeated tripping indicates an electrical fault that needs professional attention.

Water Conservation

The well has a good flow rate, but during dry summers the water table can drop. Practice reasonable conservation:

  • Don't leave faucets running unnecessarily
  • Report any leaks immediately
  • Spread out heavy water use (laundry, showers) throughout the day