Flagship guide
No Water From Your Well? Start Here
Safe checks any homeowner can do in 10 minutes, what the results likely mean, and when to call a licensed operator.
Step-by-step homeowner checks
- 1
Check the breaker
Find the well pump breaker (often a double-pole 240V breaker labeled 'well' or 'pump'). If tripped, reset it once. If it trips again, stop — that points to an electrical or pump fault.
- 2
Look at the pressure switch (don't touch contacts)
Usually mounted near the pressure tank. With the cover on, listen for a click when water is used. Never touch the contacts — they carry live 240V power.
- 3
Read the pressure gauge
Note the PSI. Near 0 means the pump isn't delivering water. If it reads normal pressure but faucets are dry, suspect a closed valve or clogged filter.
- 4
Check for leaks
Look for wet spots in the yard between the well and house, running toilets, or burst lines. A large leak can make the pump run nonstop.
- 5
Think about recent outages
Power surges and outages are a leading cause of failed control boxes, pressure switches and pump motors.
- 6
Consider frozen lines
In Northern Nevada winters, exposed pipes, well houses and pressure switch tubes can freeze. Gentle heat (a space heater at a safe distance) — never an open flame.
No water or sewage backing up? Emergency requests are prioritized.
Call (775) 555-0147If this → likely cause → urgency
| If you see… | Likely cause | Urgency |
|---|---|---|
| Breaker keeps tripping | Shorted pump, wiring or control box | High — call |
| Gauge at 0, pump silent | Pressure switch, control box or pump motor | High — call |
| Pump runs, gauge stays low | Leak, low water level, broken drop pipe | High — call |
| Rapid clicking on/off | Waterlogged pressure tank or bad switch | Medium — call soon |
| Sputtering air then nothing | Low water level or failing check valve | High — call |
| Lost water after cold night | Frozen line or switch tube | Medium — thaw safely, call if not restored |
| Gauge normal, some taps dry | Clogged filter or closed valve | Low — check filters |
Still no water? Call (775) 555-0147 or request a callback. See typical well pump repair costs.
No water FAQ
Why did my well suddenly stop working?
The most common causes are a tripped breaker, a failed pressure switch, a power surge after an outage, or a failed pump motor.
Can I reset my well pump myself?
You can safely check and reset the breaker. Some pressure switches have a low-pressure cutoff lever, but anything involving exposed wiring should be left to a licensed operator.
Is no water from the well an emergency?
For most households, yes — especially with livestock, freezing weather or medical needs. Emergency requests are prioritized.
Could my well have run dry?
It's possible but less common than mechanical or electrical issues. Sputtering air before losing water can point to a low water level.
Still no water? Get a licensed operator on the way
Tell us what's going on. We'll connect you with a licensed, insured independent operator who covers your town. You get a transparent quote with no obligation.
(775) 555-0147