Key Takeaways:

• Check Filters First: A clogged sediment filter is the most common (and cheapest) cause of pressure drops. Check it first.
• The Pressure Tank: If your pump cycles on/off rapidly ("short cycling"), your pressure tank's air bladder may have failed.
• The Pump: Gradual pressure loss over years often points to a wearing well pump.
• Filtration Bottlenecks: Undersized or clogged treatment equipment (like old softeners) can restrict flow to the whole house.

Low water pressure is one of the most common complaints for homeowners with private wells. Unlike city water, where pressure is maintained by the municipality, your well system's pressure is entirely up to your own equipment. If your showers are weak and your faucets are trickling, here are the most likely culprits.

1. Clogged Sediment Filter

This is the first, easiest, and most common thing to check. If your well produces any sand or sediment, the whole-house sediment filter can become clogged over time, restricting flow to the entire house. Try changing the filter cartridge to see if pressure is restored.

2. Failing Well Pump

The well pump is the heart of your system. These submersible pumps have a finite lifespan (often 10-15 years). As they age, their performance can degrade, leading to a gradual loss of pressure and flow. If your pressure has been slowly getting worse over the years, the pump may be nearing the end of its life.

3. Malfunctioning Pressure Tank

The pressure tank stores a reserve of pressurized water to prevent the well pump from cycling on and off every time you open a faucet. Inside is an air bladder that can fail or become waterlogged. If your pump is turning on and off very rapidly (short-cycling), it's a classic sign of a pressure tank problem, which can lead to fluctuating pressure.

4. Incorrect Pressure Switch Settings

The pressure switch tells the pump when to turn on (the "cut-in" pressure) and when to turn off (the "cut-out" pressure). If this switch is faulty or set too low, you'll experience consistently low pressure. A typical setting for a modern home is 40/60 PSI.

5. Clogged or Undersized Water Treatment Equipment

Any filter in the line can cause a pressure drop.

• Old Water Softener: An aging water softener with a compacted or fouled resin bed can severely restrict flow.
• Iron Filter: A backwashing iron filter that isn't regenerating properly can become clogged with oxidized iron.
• Undersized Equipment: If your plumbing is 1-inch, but your filtration system uses 3/4-inch connections, it can create a bottleneck.

How We Can Help

Diagnosing well pressure issues requires a systematic approach. As licensed well water treatment specialists, we can test your flow rate, check your pressure tank and switch, and evaluate your filtration equipment to pinpoint the source of the problem and recommend the right solution.

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Reviewed by Sai Akash Tumu, TCEQ Licensed Water Treatment Specialist (#WT0007448). Our approach is to educate first. For a personalized assessment, contact us for a free consultation.

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Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only. Water conditions vary, and we recommend a professional on-site water test for an accurate solution. This is not medical advice. Read full disclaimer >