How to Troubleshoot Submersible Pump Installation Issues at Home

Quick answer (read this first)

• Always disconnect power before any inspection.
• Verify power supply at the breaker and pump switch.
• Confirm adequate water level in your source (borewell/tank).
• Listen for any pump sounds; a hum with no water often signals a blockage.
• Visually check pipes for leaks or obstructions.

Safety first

• ALWAYS turn off the main electrical supply to the pump from your circuit breaker before any inspection, handling wires, or performing maintenance.
• Never attempt to open the sealed pump motor or tamper with internal electrical components unless you are a certified electrician.
• Wear insulated gloves and use insulated tools if you must interact with external electrical switches or connections.
• Avoid standing in water while checking or working near electrical circuits.
• Exercise caution around borewells or open water sources to prevent falls or accidents.

Tools you may need

• Multimeter (for safely checking external power supply if proficient)
• Screwdrivers (for opening external switch boxes or control panel covers)
• Wrench or pipe wrench (for tightening accessible pipe connections)
• Flashlight (for inspecting dark areas)
• Insulated gloves

Step-by-step

Step 1

Step 1: Safely Disconnect Power. Locate the main circuit breaker or dedicated switch for your submersible pump and turn it OFF. Confirm power is isolated before proceeding.

Step 2

Step 2: Check Electrical Supply. Inspect your home’s main distribution board for tripped breakers. Reset any tripped breakers and ensure the pump’s dedicated switch is in the ‘ON’ position.

Step 3

Step 3: Verify Water Source Level. Ensure your borewell, underground water tank, or overhead tank has sufficient water. A dry run will prevent the pump from operating and can cause damage.

Step 4

Step 4: Inspect External Wiring and Connections. Visually examine accessible power cables and pipe connections for any signs of damage, loose wiring, or leaks. Do NOT open sealed electrical components.

Step 5

Step 5: Listen for Pump Operation. If power is safely restored and the pump is still not functioning, listen closely for a humming sound. A hum without water flow often indicates a seized impeller, motor issue, or blockage.

Step 6

Step 6: Examine Pipes for Leaks or Blocks. Inspect accessible sections of the delivery pipework for visible leaks, kinks, or signs of blockage. Ensure all isolation valves are fully open.

Step 7

Step 7: Check Pressure Switch (if applicable). For systems with a pressure switch, check if it’s stuck in an open or closed position. Only observe its external state; do not attempt internal repairs.

Common mistakes

• Neglecting to turn off the main power before any inspection, leading to electrocution risk.
• Assuming pump failure without verifying the water level in the source well or tank.
• Attempting to dismantle the sealed pump motor or complex electrical systems without professional expertise.
• Ignoring minor pipe leaks or pressure drops, which can escalate into severe system failures.
• Continuously resetting a tripping circuit breaker without identifying and fixing the root cause.

When to call a professional

• If the circuit breaker trips immediately upon being reset, indicating a short circuit.
• If the pump motor hums but no water is delivered, suggesting an internal mechanical fault or severe blockage.
• If there is no power at the pump or control panel despite checking all breakers and switches.
• For significant water leaks from the pump casing itself or from inaccessible underground piping.
• If you suspect damage to the pump’s internal motor, impeller, or the submerged electrical cable.
• If you feel uncomfortable or unsafe performing any troubleshooting steps, especially those involving electricity or heavy equipment.