There’s nothing more inconvenient than needing water and realising your water pump
isn’t doing its job. A water pump is important for keeping your household water flowing,
irrigating your garden, or supporting your business operations, so it can be a real
headache when it stops working.
The good news is that many water pump problems are easy to fix on your own. In this
guide, we’ll break down the most common water pump issues and give you practical
troubleshooting tips to get your water system working again.
Pump Won’t Start
One of the most common water pump problems is when it refuses to start. There could
be many reasons why this happens, such as when there’s a loose connection or
something more complex like internal electrical issues. Sometimes, overheating can
also trigger the motor’s safety mechanisms and cause the pump to shut down
automatically.
Troubleshooting Tip:
● Make sure the water pump is connected to a working power supply and that no
circuit breakers have tripped. If you find a tripped breaker, reset it or replace any
blown fuses and see if that resolves the issue.
● If the pump has been running continuously, it may have automatically shut off for
safety reasons. Give it time to cool, and then try restarting it.
Pump is Running, But No Water is Flowing
If your pump is running but no water is coming out, it usually is a sign of airlocks,
blockages, or a dry water source. Priming the water pump is needed to maintain a
smooth water flow, as air in the system can prevent it from drawing water. Sometimes,
this can also be caused by a low water level in the source, especially if the water is
drawn from a well.
Troubleshooting Tip:
● Follow the pump’s manual to ensure it is properly primed before starting it again.
This helps remove any air that may be trapped in the system.
● Inspect the intake lines and discharge pipes for debris restricting water flow.
Cleaning these lines can get your pump working again.
Excessive Noise or Vibrations
Is your pump making strange noises, or does it feel like it’s shaking more than usual? If
you answer yes, then this is likely due to loose components, worn-out bearings, or an
imbalanced impeller. Over time, regular use of water pumps can cause some parts to loosen, which then causes the rattling, grinding, or humming sounds. If left unchecked, this can lead to further damage.
Troubleshooting Tip:
● You could check for any bolts, screws, or other connections that may have
loosened over time. Tighten them to stabilise the pump, and this should stabilise
the pump.
● If the noise continues even after you tightened the loose parts, you may need to
replace worn-out bearings or the impeller to ensure smooth operation,
Water Pump Leaks
Leaking water from the water pump is a clear sign that something is wrong. Leaks are
usually caused by worn seals or gaskets that can no longer hold water. Over time, seals
can break down due to heat exposure or regular chemical wear and tear. In some
cases, cracks in the pump housing can also cause leaks and may even lead to water
damage if left unattended.
Troubleshooting Tip:
● If the seals and gaskets are worn or damaged, replace them immediately to
prevent water from escaping. These parts are easy to replace and can stop the
leak right away.
● You can also look for cracks in the pump body. Small cracks can sometimes be
sealed with a repair kit, but larger ones may need pump replacement.
Overheating Pump
If your water pump is overheating, this could be due to restricted water flow or poor
ventilation around the motor. Pumps rely on the flow of water to cool them
down during operation. When something restricts the flow, the pump will work harder
and may cause the motor to overheat. Aside from that, if the area around the motor
doesn’t have adequate airflow, the pump cannot cool down properly and may stop
working.
Troubleshooting Tip:
● Check to see if the intake and discharge lines are free of blockages or if the
pump is receiving enough water.
● Make sure that there is enough airflow around the motor to help it cool properly.
Remove any obstructions that could block air from circulating.
When DIY Isn’t Enough—Call a Professional!
While many water pump issues can be fixed with simple troubleshooting, sometimes it’s
best to call a professional. If they continue despite your efforts, or if you’re dealing with
more complex issues, it’s always a good idea to get professional help. Attempting to fix
these problems on your own could lead to more damage or even safety risks.
At Aerocycle, we specialise in diagnosing and fixing all types of water pump problems.
Don’t wait until a small problem becomes a big one. Get in touch with us today for fast
and reliable service!