How To Reset The Pressure Switch On A Well Pump [Step By Step Guide]

Turning on your well pump may greet you with problems from the water-extracting system. Now, you're wondering if resetting the pressure switch will reset the pump's normal functions. But how can you complete this task? We did plenty of research and have the answer for you!

The specific steps to reset a pressure switch on a well pump often differs per model. Nonetheless, you should still see similarities among the different resetting procedures.

Here's a quick look at resetting a well pump pressure switch:

1. Find the well pump system's pressure switch, reset lever, and gauge.
2. Move the reset lever to the start position.
3. Hold the reset lever in that position until the gauge goes over 40 PSI.
4. Return the reset lever to the AUTO position.

Note that the steps mentioned above aren't the only means to reset a well pump pressure switch. So continue reading as we tackle other ways to adjust and reset this water-drawing system to restore its normal functions.

Safety Precautions When Working With A Well Pump

 

Bear in mind that well pumps are generally intricate plumbing systems. Repair and maintenance procedures dealing with these water-pulling frameworks often require sufficient plumbing know-how.

Although you may pursue a DIY solution to fixing a problem with your well pump, ensure that proper safety protocols are in place. These safety measures should also be present when resetting the system's pressure switch.

Some preventive measures you should keep in mind include:

Follow Safety Instructions

Search and consult your well pump's owner or safety manual. Here, you should find particular pieces of information that help you safely handle the systems' different components.

Inspect And Replace Faulty Parts

Attempting to reset a well pump may only fail if certain system components are malfunctioning or worn. So changing these faulty parts is typically a priority over resetting the system.

It's because these components might be the cause of the well pump's poor performance.

Wear Appropriate Gear

For starters, remove any metal objects that you might be wearing.

For instance, the well pump's installation location has a wet floor. If so, an electrical current running through the pump and wet floor may be hazardous for your well-being.

You may wear safety shoes or rubber boots for that particular scenario. But you should also wear other safety gear, such as gloves, goggles, and a respirator.

That way, you can reduce the risks of irritation and harm to your skin, eyes, mouth, nose, and throat.

Know When To Contact The Professionals

If you believe resetting the pressure switch on your well pump is too much for you to handle, consider requesting help from industry professionals.

But prepare to spend about $346 to $1,504 for professional well pump repair services.

How Do You Reset A Well Pump Switch Without A Lever?

Apart from the procedure previously mentioned, it might be possible to reset a well pump's pressure switch if it doesn't have a reset lever.

Here are some methods you may use:

Method #1: Replace The Pump Controller

Changing a worn-well pump controller with a working unit may also reset the system's switch. Make sure that the replacement controller you're about to install is compatible with your well pump.

Otherwise, you might run into additional issues.

You can also replace the control box to ensure its components, including the pump's controller, will be in good working condition.

So follow these steps to change your well pump's control box:

What You'll Need

• Multimeter
• Screwdriver
• Replacement well pump control box

Step-By-Step Guide

1. Deactivate and ensure the well pump is off. Turn off the system from its corresponding circuit breaker if necessary.
2. Connect a multimeter's probes to the control box to verify that an electrical current isn't running through the pump.
3. Remove the screw sealing the new control box's cover. Pull out the cover afterward, which should also contain the new set of wires.
4. Remove the cover on the control box currently connected to the well pump.
5. Attach and secure the new cover to the control box on the well pump. Ensure that the wires align with the correct terminals.
6. Turn on the well pump and check if it works as expected.

See a replacement well pump controller/protector on Amazon.

You can also watch the video below if you need a visual guide:

Method #2: Change The Well Pump Pressure Switch

Take note that you can let specialized technicians handle this job for you. But you may need to pay about $100 to $175 to cover the professional labor.

Nonetheless, here's a look at how to change your well pump's pressure switch to help reset it and the system.

Keep reading for you to gain insight into this procedure and to help you finalize your preferred repair option for the well pump:

What You'll Need

• Philips screwdriver
• Adjustable wrench
• Vice grips
• Teflon tape
• Replacement well pump pressure switch assembly

Step-By-Step Guide

1. Turn off the well pump from its connected circuit breaker
2. Remove the cover on the pressure switch.
3. Check the contact points with the voltage detector to ensure electricity isn't running through the system.
4. Turn off the valve connected to the hose that feeds water to your property.
5. Take a picture of the wiring on the old well pump pressure switch assembly.
6. Loosen the screws on the pressure switch's contact points.
7. Disconnect all the wiring attached to the pressure switch.
8. Connect a garden hose to the well pump and open the valve to drain the leftover water from the pump. Wait until the gauge reads 0 PSI before continuing to the next step.
9. Remove the pressure switch assembly by loosening its fastener from its mount.
10. Remove the adhesive residue from the pipe mount.
11. Apply Teflon tape around the pipe mount's opening. Make sure to apply the tape in a clockwise direction.
12. Install the new pressure switch assembly in the exact location of the old unit.
13. Route the wires from the well pump to the pressure switch.
14. Tighten the wires to their appropriate contact points. Start with the ground wire for this step.
15. Place the cover on the pressure switch to help protect it from the elements.
16. Turn on the well pump's circuit breaker and test if the system now works as intended.

See a replacement well pump pressure control and switch on Amazon.

Tip: Rub the wires' contact points with fine-grit sandpaper before you connect them to the new pressure switch. That way, you can remove corrosion buildup and help improve the well pump's performance.

Watch the following video for a visual of the steps mentioned above:

Method #3: Depressurize The Well Pump

Another possible reason why your well pump is malfunctioning is an increase in pressure in the system. Depressurizing the pump may also reset the pressure switch, allowing the system to return to its normal operations.

Generally, depressurizing a well pump is a reasonably straightforward affair.

Here are the steps to complete this task:

What You'll Need

• Voltage detector
• Air pressure gauge
• Air compressor

Step-By-Step Guide

1. Turn off the well pump and ensure it doesn't have electricity running through it.
2. Remove the small cover on top of the well pump's tank.
3. Check the pump's current pressure by inserting an air pressure gauge into the newly exposed terminal.
4. Turn on the valves on the well pump to drain its leftover air and water.
5. Connect an air compressor to the well pump's tank and turn on the machine.
6. Pump air into the well pump until the gauge reads 2 PSI below the cut-in pressure.
7. Disconnect the air compressor once finished.
8. Turn on the well pump and check if the pressure switch and well pump are working correctly.

See this portable air compressor on Amazon.

Watch the video below to learn more about this:

What Are The Signs That A Well Pump Is Failing?

You might still be unsure if your well pump's pressure switch needs a reset. Perhaps you're also uncertain if the system is failing.

So here are some signs to watch out for if your well pump needs immediate attention:

• Loud noises from the pump
• Increase in energy bills
• Reduced water pressure
• Shorter well pump cycles than usual
• Deposits and other debris from faucets

To Finish It Up

Resetting a pressure switch on a well pump often requires sufficient know-how of how the system works. If you're not confident about your current knowledge and skills in electricity and plumbing, make sure to leave this job to certified professionals.

Made it to the end? Check out these related articles below:

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