Why Your Well Pump Is Short Cycling (And How to Fix It)

If your well pump is turning on and off rapidly, you’re experiencing a problem known as short cycling. This issue puts stress on your pump, increases energy bills, and often leads to pump failure if ignored.

At Galan Well Drilling & Pump Inc., we help homeowners in Tampa, Brandon, Riverview, Plant City, Seffner, and across Tampa Bay diagnose and repair short cycling before it causes bigger problems.

✅ What Is Short Cycling?

Short cycling happens when a pump starts and stops in very quick bursts instead of running steady cycles. A normal pump should switch on, build pressure, then shut off until pressure drops again.

When the cycle happens too quickly, it signals something is wrong in the system.

✅ Common Causes of Short Cycling

1. Pressure Tank Issues

   • A waterlogged or failing pressure tank can’t hold air and water properly.

   • This is the most common cause of short cycling.

2. Faulty Pressure Switch

   • A worn or misadjusted switch may trigger the pump on and off too frequently.

3. Plumbing Leaks

   • Leaks in pipes or fittings force the pump to work harder to maintain pressure.

4. Clogged or Dirty Well Screen

   • Florida’s sandy soil often clogs screens, restricting water flow and causing pressure fluctuations.

5. Worn Pump Components

   • Internal wear may prevent the pump from building consistent pressure.

✅ Risks of Ignoring Short Cycling

• ✅ Burned-out pump motor

• ✅ Higher electric bills

• ✅ Damaged pressure tank

• ✅ Complete system failure

Catching the problem early can save time, money, and hassle.

✅ How Tampa Bay Homeowners Can Troubleshoot

Before calling a professional, you can:

• Check the pressure gauge for rapid fluctuations.

• Listen for constant clicking from the switch.

• Inspect visible pipes for leaks.

If the issue continues, professional repair is required.

✅ Professional Solutions from Galan Well Drilling & Pump Inc.

We provide same-day service for short cycling problems across Tampa Bay, including:

• Pressure tank replacement

• Pressure switch adjustment or replacement

• Well pump repair and installation

• Emergency service when your system fails suddenly

✅ FAQs About Short Cycling

Q: Can I keep using my pump if it’s short cycling?
A: It’s risky. Running the pump this way can quickly burn out the motor and lead to total failure.

Q: Is short cycling always caused by the pressure tank?
A: Not always, but it’s the most common cause. A technician can confirm the source.

Q: Do you service homes outside Tampa?
A: Yes. We serve Riverview, Brandon, Plant City, Valrico, Wesley Chapel, and other Tampa Bay communities.

Q: Do you offer emergency repairs?
A: Absolutely. We provide 24/7 emergency well pump repair when short cycling leaves you without reliable water.

Call (813) 675-5457 today for expert help with well pump short cycling in Tampa Bay.