Why won't my well pump shut off?

The most common reason is a waterlogged pressure tank that can't build enough pressure to trigger the switch. A stuck pressure switch, plumbing leak, or failing check valve can also keep the pump running. We can usually diagnose and fix it in a single visit.

Can a running pump burn out?

Yes — and it happens faster than most people expect. A submersible pump motor is cooled by the water flowing past it. When it runs non-stop, it overheats and the motor windings burn out. Turning it off at the breaker until we arrive is the best thing you can do.

How much does it cost to replace a pressure tank?

Pressure tank replacement typically runs between $300 and $800 depending on the tank size your system needs. We'll give you the exact price before starting work. It's a common repair and usually takes just a few hours.

Troubleshooting

Well Pump Won't Stop Running? What It Means

If your well pump won't cycle off, it's running up your electric bill and heading toward burnout. This is one of the most time-sensitive well problems — here's what to know.

Call (541) 791-4202

Oregon Licensed Well Pump Contractor

What's Happening

A well pump is designed to cycle on and off — it runs to fill the pressure tank, then shuts off when the tank reaches the cut-off pressure (usually around 50–60 PSI). When the pump runs continuously without shutting off, it means the system can't reach that cut-off pressure. Something is preventing the tank from building up enough pressure to trigger the switch.

The most common cause is a waterlogged pressure tank. When the bladder inside the tank fails, there's no air cushion to build pressure against, so the pump just keeps running. A faulty pressure switch — stuck in the "on" position — is another frequent cause. We also see this with plumbing leaks, running toilets, or open irrigation valves that create constant water demand the pump tries to satisfy.

This is an urgent issue. A pump running non-stop will overheat, and an overheated motor burns out. What could have been a $300 pressure tank replacement becomes a $3,000+ pump replacement if you wait too long. If your pump is running constantly, turn it off at the breaker and call us.

Signs You Might Have This Problem

You can hear the pump running continuously — it never cycles off
Your electric bill has spiked unexpectedly
The pressure tank feels warm or hot to the touch
Water pressure is low even though the pump is running
The pressure gauge is stuck below the cut-off pressure

What We Do To Fix It

First, we check the pressure tank — a quick tap test and air pressure check tells us if the bladder has failed. Then we inspect the pressure switch, test for plumbing leaks, and check the well's check valve. If the pump itself is struggling to build pressure, we'll evaluate whether it needs repair or replacement. We diagnose before we quote — no guesswork, no surprises.

Think this is your problem?

Call us — we diagnose before we quote. No guesswork, no surprises.

Same-day emergency service across Albany, the Mid-Willamette Valley, and the Central Oregon Coast.

Call (541) 791-4202

30+ years experience · Family-owned & operated

Where We Service This Issue

We diagnose and repair this problem across the Mid-Willamette Valley and Central Oregon Coast, including:

Mid-Willamette Valley

Albany Corvallis Dallas Jefferson Lebanon Millersburg Philomath Scio Stayton Tangent

Central Oregon Coast

Depoe Bay Lincoln City Newport Toledo Waldport Yachats

* Surrounding rural areas also served — contact us to confirm coverage.