How to Troubleshoot Water Well Pressure Switches During Low Temperatures

Heat the pressure switch with a hair dryer. This helps determine whether temperature is affecting the pressure switch or there is another problem. Once the switch is warmed up, check the system to see how the switch responds.

Check the pressure gauge for the well system. The pressure switch should activate when the pressure is at a certain level. The specific level varies depending on your system. If the gauge is reading less than the pressure switch's cut-in point and the switch isn't activating, tap the gauge to see if the reading adjusts. The gauge itself may be faulty. Warm the gauge with a hair dryer as well to see if it affects the reading.

Run the water in the building if the gauge shows a reading above the pressure switch's cut-out setting. Watch the pressure drop as the water runs and see if the pressure switch activates the pump. Replace the gauge if the pump turns on but the gauge reading doesn't fluctuate as the water runs.

Tap on the water pump itself gently with a wrench. The connection to the pump may be faulty. If tapping it causes the pump to start working, the pump itself is likely faulty and requires repair or replacement because it isn't registering the signal from the pressure switch.

Look for a bypass lever on the side of the pressure switch. Not all models have one, but it resembles an Allen wrench sticking out of the mechanism. Lift up the lever to activate it. This should automatically turn the pump on if it works properly. If the pump isn't turning on at all and the bypass doesn't work, the pump likely needs replacement. If the pump does come on with the bypass but doesn't otherwise, the problem is likely the switch itself, which needs a full replacement. Do not leave the lever in the bypass position.

Shut off the power to the system entirely and take off the cover to the pressure switch. Inspect the connections leading into it for sediment buildup, which is common with well water. Unscrew the pipe going into the bottom of the switch and inspect it for clogs. Unclogging the piping and the switch itself is usually a temporary fix, and the switch eventually needs replacement.