A dry well is a homeowner’s worst nightmare, especially if you rely on well water for drinking, cooking, and daily household use. Whether due to drought, overuse, or aging infrastructure, a well running dry can disrupt your water supply and cause costly damage. If you live in Bucks County, PA, and your well is running low or completely dry, knowing what steps to take can help restore your water system quickly.
At O’Brien’s Well Service, we specialize in diagnosing and resolving well issues, including low water levels, pump problems, and well rehabilitation. Here’s what to do if your well runs dry and how we can help.
Signs That Your Well May Be Running Dry
Before your well completely stops producing water, there are warning signs that your water supply is dwindling. Look out for:
- Fluctuating Water Pressure – Sudden drops in pressure or inconsistent flow can indicate a low water level.
- Air in Faucets – If you hear sputtering when turning on a faucet, your pump may be pulling in air due to low water levels.
- Muddy or Cloudy Water – Sediment and debris from the bottom of the well can get stirred up when the water level is low.
- Odd-Tasting or Smelly Water – A change in taste or odor may indicate that the well is pulling in minerals or bacteria from deeper layers.
- Pump Running Constantly – If your pump runs nonstop, it may be struggling to draw enough water from the well.
If you notice any of these signs, it’s essential to take action quickly to prevent long-term damage to your well and pump system.
Steps to Take If Your Well Runs Dry
1. Reduce Water Usage Immediately
The first step is to conserve as much water as possible to prevent the well from going completely dry. Avoid:
- Running dishwashers and washing machines.
- Watering lawns or gardens.
- Long showers or excessive water use.
2. Check for Equipment Issues
Sometimes, a dry well is not due to a lack of water but a malfunctioning well pump or pressure tank. Check for:
- A tripped circuit breaker – Reset it and see if the pump starts working again.
- A failing pressure switch – This can prevent the pump from turning on.
- Clogged filters or pipes – Sediment buildup can reduce water flow.
If your equipment is in good shape but you still don’t have water, the issue may be your well’s water supply.
3. Have Your Well Depth and Water Levels Tested
A well service professional can measure your well’s static water level to determine whether your well has truly run dry or if water levels have dropped temporarily due to drought conditions.
4. Consider Well Rehabilitation or Deepening
If your well is not producing enough water, solutions may include:
- Hydrofracturing – A process that opens up fractures in the rock to increase water flow.
- Well deepening – Extending the well to access a lower aquifer with more water.
- Cleaning and rehabilitation – Removing sediment, mineral buildup, and debris to improve water flow.
5. Drill a New Well (If Necessary)
If your well is too old or has permanently dried up, drilling a new well may be the best long-term solution. A well specialist can assess your property and recommend the best location for a new water source.
How O’Brien’s Well Service Can Help
At O’Brien’s Well Service in Bucks County, PA, we provide expert solutions for homeowners facing well water shortages. Whether your well is running low, needs rehabilitation, or requires a new well installation, our team can assess your system and recommend the best course of action.
Don’t wait until your well goes completely dry—contact us today for professional well inspection and restoration services!
