The pressure switch on a well system tells the pump when to start and stop, and when it fails the water pressure swings or the pump runs constantly. It is one of the most common well repairs.
The job
The switch senses the pressure in the tank and closes the contacts to start the pump at the low setpoint, then opens them at the high setpoint.
The contacts
The contacts can burn or stick over time, causing the pump to short-cycle, run constantly, or fail to start.
The adjustment
The cut-in and cut-out pressures are adjusted with the switch, but the tank's air charge must match the settings or the pump will cycle wrong.
The symptom
Rapid clicking, no water, or a pump that never shuts off all point to the switch or the tank. freezing winters put stress on exposed lines, and many older homes still have aging galvanized pipes In Iowa City, well systems need this checked seasonally.
The tank
The switch and the tank work together, so a switch problem can really be a tank air-charge problem. A pro checks both, not just the clicking switch.
The call
Keep the pump cycling correctly. Call 888-217-3585 and Iowa City Plumbing Helpers will match you with an Iowa City pro.
Plumbing in Iowa City: what to know
In Iowa City, freezing winters put stress on exposed lines, and many older homes still have aging galvanized pipes. Pros in our network know the local quirks and bring the right parts on the first visit.
Across Johnson County — from Coralville, Tiffin and North Liberty to ZIP codes like 52242, 52245, 52240 — homeowners deal with the same kinds of issues. The tips above apply locally, and when a job goes beyond a quick fix, a vetted local pro is only a call away.
Need a hand in Iowa City?
If a plumbing issue is beyond a quick fix, don't wait for it to get worse. Call 888-217-3585 and Iowa City Plumbing Helpers will match you with a vetted local pro — usually within minutes. Learn more about plumbing help in Iowa City.