If your water pump keeps turning on and off too frequently, you’re likely dealing with a case of short cycling. While this might seem like a minor inconvenience, it can signal underlying problems that, if left unaddressed, may cause damage to your pump or plumbing system. At Doug the Plumber, we’re here to help you understand the most common causes of water pump short cycling and how you can fix them.
Common Causes of Water Pump Short Cycling
1. Loss of Adequate Air Charge in the Water Tank (or Overcharging)
The most frequent cause of short cycling is an inadequate air charge in your water tank, particularly for homes with older, non-bladder water pressure tanks. When there isn’t enough air in the tank, the pump has to work harder and more frequently to maintain pressure, leading to short cycling.
How to Fix It: In most cases, restoring the air charge is a relatively simple task. Start by checking the air volume control (if your tank has one). You may need to add air to the tank via the air inlet valve. This is followed by draining the tank and allowing fresh air to enter. It’s important to note that this is usually a temporary fix, and a professional may need to assess the tank for long-term solutions.
On the flip side, overcharging the tank with too much air can also cause issues. This happens when air is added either when the tank is full or empty. For homes with bladder-style water tanks, fixing this involves turning off the pump, draining the water, and resetting the air charge to the manufacturer’s specifications.
2. Blocked Water Supply Piping
A clogged water filter or debris in the water supply pipes is another common reason for short cycling. Even a partially clogged filter can quickly raise water pressure when the pump activates, triggering the pump to cycle on and off rapidly.
How to Fix It: If a blockage is causing the short cycling, the solution is straightforward: replacing the filter cartridge or clearing any obstructions in the piping. It’s crucial to check your filters regularly and replace them as part of routine maintenance.
Call us Today!
Doug the Plumber
If you’re experiencing water pump short cycling, it’s best to have a professional inspect your system. Doug the Plumber has extensive experience in diagnosing and fixing pump issues throughout the Comox Valley. Whether it’s a quick fix or a more complex repair, we ensure your water pump is running efficiently and reliably. Don’t let a small issue turn into a bigger problem—reach out to us today!