Symptoms
When the well pump keeps tripping the breaker
A breaker trips when it sees more current than the circuit should carry. On a well, that can point to the pump motor, the wiring down the well, a control part, or a storm surge.
This is a referral line. When you call, you are connected with an independent local well pump company.
Reset once, then stop
Reset the breaker one time. If it trips right away or within minutes, leave it off. Repeated resets can turn a repairable problem into a bigger one.
Common causes
A pump motor that is failing or locked up, damaged wire in the well, a failed starting part in the control box if your system has one, or water in a junction. A nearby lightning strike can also damage well electrical parts. See our guide on monsoon lightning.
How a company narrows it down
Pump companies can test the wire and motor from the surface before pulling anything. Ask what they test first. That matters more on deep wells, and local well records show medians well over 300 ft in most of the ZIPs on this site.[source]
Safety
Do not open the control box, the switch or any junction box. These carry household voltage, and water and electricity together are dangerous.
What to tell the company
Say how long after a reset the breaker trips, whether you heard the pump start first, and whether there was a storm or outage recently. If you have a control box, say where it is. If you know your well depth or registration number, give it, because it helps the company plan how they will test the wiring.
Questions
Could it just be an old breaker?
It is possible, but it is not the usual cause. Let the company test it.
Did the storm do this?
Power surges can damage well parts. Mention any recent storm or outage.
Will I need a new pump?
Not always. Testing comes first.
Related help
Want to talk it through?
Call and get connected with a local well pump company.
Call about your well(928) 655-8940