FAQS - Frequently Asked Questions
Pumps
My pump is running but not pumping water – what should I do?
Turn the pump off immediately. This could mean the pump is running dry (no water in it), the impeller is damaged, or there’s an airlock or blockage. Running it dry can quickly burn out seals or the motor, so it’s important to stop and inspect the system.
My pump won’t turn off – what’s wrong?
If your pump keeps running even when not in use, it could be a faulty pressure switch, a leak in the system, or a stuck float switch (for submersible pumps). Turn it off manually and have it checked, as running non-stop will wear it out quickly and waste power.
My pump isn’t turning on – what should I check?
Check the power supply first — look for tripped breakers or blown fuses. Then inspect the pressure switch, float switch, or motor for faults. Also make sure the pump hasn’t overheated and tripped a thermal cutout, especially in dry or low-flow conditions.
Why is my pump making loud or unusual noises?
This could be due to cavitation (air in the system), worn bearings, debris in the impeller, or loose internal parts. Turn off the pump and inspect — ignoring the noise can lead to serious mechanical damage.
Why has my pump lost pressure or flow?
Common causes include a blocked filter, clogged impeller, suction leak, or low water level in the source. If the pump’s pressure has slowly dropped, it could be due to wear over time or buildup in the system.
What kind of warranty do pumps have?
Most pumps come with a 1–5 year warranty depending on the brand and type. Coverage may include parts and labor but doesn’t always cover wear-and-tear or dry running damage. Always check the fine print.
How often should I service or check my pump?
We recommend scheduling an annual service to keep your pump running smoothly and to catch any issues early. During our service, we check seals, impellers, test switches, and look for leaks or unusual vibrations. For high-use systems like irrigation or commercial setups, more frequent servicing may be necessary.
What happens if my pump is run dry?
Most pumps will be damaged if run without water because seals and impellers can overheat and fail quickly so always make sure the system is primed and full before turning it on.
What size pump do I need?
That depends on your application, how much water you need to move (flow rate) and how far or high it needs to go (head/pressure). We can help calculate the right size for your needs.
Does insurance cover pump damage?
In most cases, standard home or business insurance does not cover damage due to wear and tear, lack of maintenance, or mechanical failure. However, it may cover pump damage if it's caused by a covered event, like a power surge, storm, or flooding. It’s best to check with your insurer for specific coverage details.
Water Quality
What causes white scum or limescale buildup on appliances and showerheads, and how can I prevent it?
White scum or limescale is usually caused by hard water with high levels of calcium and magnesium and while harsh chemicals may remove surface stains they don’t address the root cause so using a water softener or descaling system is the best way to protect appliances like hot water cylinders and prevent buildup long term.
Why does my water have a metallic taste or reddish-brown stains, and is it safe to drink?
A metallic taste or reddish-brown staining is usually caused by iron or manganese in the water which is generally safe to drink but can affect taste and appearance and may stain fixtures or laundry and can be treated with a filtration system designed to remove these contaminants.
Can poor water quality cause dry skin or worsen eczema, and what water treatment helps?
Yes, hard water and chlorine can strip the skin of natural oils, leading to dryness and irritation. This can aggravate conditions like eczema, especially in children or those with sensitive skin. A whole-house water filter or a water softener can help by removing harsh minerals and chlorine, making the water gentler on your skin and reducing flare-ups.
Why is water quality important for our health?
Contaminants like bacteria, lead, or chemicals in water can cause illness. Clean water supports hydration, skin health, and overall well-being.
What’s the difference between UV, under-sink, whole-house, and reverse osmosis water treatment systems?
Under-sink filters clean water at a single tap, while whole-house systems treat all water in the home. UV sterilization kills bacteria and viruses without chemicals. Reverse osmosis removes many contaminants for pure drinking water, and water softeners reduce hardness to prevent scale buildup.
What are common contaminants I may find in my water?
Common contaminants include bacteria (e.g., E. coli), heavy metals (e.g., lead, iron, manganese), nitrates, pesticides, chlorine, PFAS (forever chemicals), and hard water minerals (calcium, magnesium). Well water may have more bacteria, while municipal water often contains chlorine or fluoride.
Why should wells always have UV sterilization?
Wells are more prone to contamination because they draw water from underground sources that can be affected by surface pollutants like septic systems, agricultural runoff, and animal waste. If the well is shallow or improperly sealed, bacteria, viruses, and chemicals can easily enter, making the water unsafe without proper treatment.
How do I test my water quality, and what are my options for doing so?
To test your water quality, you can use a DIY test kit available online or from us, or have us collect a sample for you. Regardless of the method, samples need to be sent to a certified lab like Hills Lab within 24 hours for accurate results. Testing typically checks for bacteria, metals, pH levels, and other contaminants to ensure your water is safe and clean.
Where does my water come from, and how is it processed before it reaches my tap?
Water sources depend on your location: municipal water often comes from rivers, lakes, or reservoirs, while rural homes may use wells or springs. Municipal water is treated through coagulation, sedimentation, filtration, and disinfection (e.g., chlorine or UV) before distribution. Well water is untreated unless you add filtration or sterilization systems. Contact your local water utility or test your well to learn more about your source.