No Water From Well After a Power Outage? What to Check

When the power comes back after an outage, most wells start up on their own. Sometimes they don’t, and the taps stay dry even though the lights are on.

The fix is usually a reset you can do in a few minutes. This guide shows what to check, in order, and when the problem is something a pump contractor should handle.

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Power Is Back, Still No Water? Quick Checker

Step by Step: Getting Water Back

1. Check the breaker marked for the well pump. Reset it once if it has tripped.
2. Read the pressure gauge. If it is below about 20 psi, go to the low pressure reset below.
3. Listen at the pressure switch. A click means it is calling for the pump.
4. Re-prime a jet pump if you have one. Air can get in while it sits idle.
5. Flush an outside tap to clear air and stirred up sediment.

How to Reset the Low Pressure Switch

Many well pressure switches have a small lever on the side. If pressure drops below a set point, often about 20 psi, the switch cuts the pump to protect it, and it stays off until you reset it.

1. Find the lever on the side of the pressure switch, usually near the pressure tank.
2. Lift or hold it in the start position, as marked on the switch.
3. Hold it while the pump runs and the gauge climbs past about 30 psi.
4. Let go. The pump should keep running until it reaches cut-out.

If it trips again soon after, the pump may not be getting water. See well pump runs but no water.

What to Do During an Outage

• Turn off the pump’s breaker so it does not start the moment the power returns, as private well guidance advises (Private Well Class).
• Use water left in the pressure tank; many tanks have a drain near the bottom.
• Keep stored water for flushing toilets and bottled water for drinking.
• Do not run a generator through a house outlet. Use a proper transfer switch or inlet.

After a Storm or Flood

After power returns, inspect the pump and nearby parts for damage or leaks before switching on, and watch for odd noises (Private Well Class).

Lightning can damage the pressure switch, control box or motor. A surge protector for the well circuit is cheap insurance; see well pump protection devices.

Backup Power for Your Well

If outages are common where you live, a generator or battery backup keeps water flowing. Size it for the pump’s starting load, which is much higher than its running load.

Our guides to the best generator for a well pump and battery backup for a well pump show how to size each.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why do I have no water after a power outage?

The most common reasons are a tripped breaker, a tripped low pressure cutoff on the pressure switch, or a jet pump that lost prime. Lightning or a surge can also damage the switch or control box.

How do I reset my well pump after a power outage?

Reset the well pump breaker, then, if pressure is low, hold the low pressure lever on the pressure switch in the start position until the gauge passes about 30 psi.

Should I turn off my well pump during a power outage?

Yes. Switching off its breaker stops the pump starting under a surge when the power returns. Turn it back on once power is steady.

Can a power outage damage a well pump?

A normal outage rarely does, but surges and lightning can damage the pressure switch, control box or motor.

Is my well water safe after a power outage?

If there was no flooding, the water is usually fine. After flooding, have the wiring checked, disinfect the well and test the water before drinking.

Sources: Private Well Class; Water Systems Council.