Trace a Dry Faucet Without Risking Your Well Pump
Use this printable flowchart to protect the pump, record useful clues, secure essential water, and decide whether your next step is a simple check or a call to a licensed professional.
Start at the dry faucet and follow only the branch that matches your power, pressure, and pump symptoms. The flow ends with a clear next action and a record you can share with a professional.
First Response to a Dry Faucet
Do not assume the well is dry or pay for a major repair yet. A power problem, pressure-system issue, leak, equipment failure, heavy demand, or reduced water supply may produce similar symptoms.
- Protect the pump. If the water supply is uncertain—or the pump runs continuously without restoring normal pressure—turn off the pump.
- Protect essential water. Record what is available for drinking and livestock before using water for lower-priority needs.
- Make one safe power check. Does the house have power? □ Yes □ No □ Unsure. Do not open electrical equipment or attempt detailed electrical testing.
- Record the pressure clue. Gauge reading: ______. Is it changing? □ Rising □ Falling □ Not changing □ Unknown.
Quick clue: Low pressure plus a continuously running pump is more consistent with a supply problem or leak. It does not prove that the well is dry. A licensed professional must measure the well’s water level and recovery to confirm a supply problem.