No Water? A Texas Homeowner’s 10-Minute Checklist Before We Arrive
Few things cause panic faster than turning on the tap and getting nothing. Whether it’s morning showers, laundry, or livestock care, losing water from your well can disrupt everything. Before you assume the worst, there are a few quick steps you can take. Here’s a 10-minute checklist from 77 Water Well to help you troubleshoot your system safely — and possibly get your water flowing again before we arrive.
1. Check for Power
Your well pump needs electricity to operate. Go to your main breaker panel and verify that the well pump breaker hasn’t tripped. Reset it once if it has. If it trips again immediately, there may be a short circuit or motor failure — turn it off and call a professional.
2. Inspect the Pressure Switch
Find the small gray box near your pressure tank — that’s the pressure switch. If you hear clicking but the pump won’t start, contacts may be burnt or corroded. If you’re comfortable, you can remove the cover (with power off) and check for black residue or insects. If you see damage, the switch likely needs replacement.
3. Check the Pressure Gauge
Look at the gauge near your tank. Normal readings should be between 30–60 PSI. If it’s at zero, power loss, a bad switch, or pump failure are the top suspects.
4. Listen for the Pump
Stand near your well head or tank. If the pump hums but no water comes through, it could be airlocked, dry, or running against a closed valve. If it’s completely silent, there’s a good chance power isn’t reaching the pump or the motor is burned out.
5. Check for Frozen or Burst Pipes (Winter Months)
During a cold snap, frozen lines can block water flow. If you suspect freezing, turn off power to the pump immediately to avoid damage and call our emergency team for safe thawing and inspection.
6. Inspect Visible Plumbing
Look for leaks or breaks around your pressure tank, fittings, and visible pipes. Even a small crack can depressurize your system and stop flow.
7. Confirm Water in the Well
Prolonged drought can lower the water table, leaving pumps sucking air. If neighbors on wells are also seeing low pressure or “spitting faucets,” water levels may have dropped temporarily. Our technicians can perform a static level test to verify your well’s supply.
8. Check Filters and Valves
Clogged sediment or carbon filters can block flow entirely. Bypass or replace filters and ensure all main valves are open. For homes with constant pressure systems, check the controller display for error codes.
9. Verify the Tank Pressure
Use a tire gauge on the air valve at the top of your pressure tank. If there’s no pressure or water sprays out, the bladder may have ruptured — meaning the tank needs replacement.
10. Call 77 Water Well
If none of these steps restore flow, don’t worry — our team can diagnose the problem quickly. From failed pumps and switches to dry wells or electrical faults, we’ll locate the issue and get you running again fast.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if my pump runs but no water comes out?
This could mean your well is dry, the pump has lost prime, or there’s a broken pipe between the well and pressure tank. Turn off power and call our technicians right away.
Can drought cause a well to stop producing water?
Yes, prolonged drought lowers groundwater levels and can temporarily dry out shallow wells. Well inspections can confirm your water depth and flow rate.
Is it safe to reset the breaker multiple times?
No — if it trips more than once, leave it off. Repeated resets can cause motor damage or fire risk.
What’s the average repair time if my well stops working?
Most repairs can be completed the same day, depending on whether parts or pump replacements are needed.
Call the Experts
If you’re out of water, don’t panic — we can help. Call (281) 378-7020 or contact 77 Water Well now. Our experienced team offers 24/7 emergency well pump repair throughout Texas, so you’re never left dry.