No Water From Your Well? Here's What to Do

Losing water at home is stressful. No showers, no flushing, no cooking. Here are a few safe things to check, then how to get a professional on the way.

Safe First Checks

1. Check the breaker for the well pump in your electrical panel. If it's tripped, reset it once. If it trips again, leave it off and call a pro.
2. Look at the pressure gauge near your pressure tank, if you have one. A reading near zero means the pump isn't delivering water.
3. Check whether the power is out in general, or just to the pump.
4. Ask a neighbor on a well whether they have water. In a drought, water levels can drop.

Don't open the pressure switch, control box, or wellhead wiring. They carry high voltage. Leave that to a licensed pump installer.

Common Causes

• A failed submersible pump or motor
• A bad pressure switch or control box
• A tripped breaker or wiring problem
• A waterlogged or failed pressure tank
• A broken pipe between the pump and the house
• A falling water level in the well

While You Wait

If the pump keeps trying to run with no water coming out, turn it off at the breaker so it doesn't run dry. Save bottled water for drinking and keep a bucket of water for flushing toilets.

Get Emergency Help

Get a free quote and choose "Emergency (no water)." We'll pass your request to a local well professional who serves your area. Response times depend on the provider's schedule.

No Water FAQ

Is a dry well common in the Hill Country? Water levels in Hill Country aquifers can drop during drought, but most no-water calls turn out to be equipment problems such as the pump, switch, or wiring.

Who should I call, a plumber or a well company? For problems at the well, call a TDLR-licensed pump installer or well company.