Seasonal
Monsoon storms, lightning and your well pump
Summer thunderstorms bring lightning, and lightning and power surges can damage the electrical parts of a well system.
This is a referral line. When you call, you are connected with an independent local well pump company.
Safety first
Stay indoors during lightning. The National Weather Service lightning safety pages explain why.[source] Do not work on the well, the panel or any wiring during a storm.
What can be damaged
Pressure switches, control boxes, constant pressure controllers and the pump motor itself. Some damage shows up right away as no water or a tripped breaker. Some shows up days later.
After the storm
Check the well breaker. Look at the pressure gauge. If you have a controller with a screen, note any fault code. If the breaker trips again, leave it off and call.
Protection
Ask the pump company whether surge protection is a good idea for your system. Mention it when you schedule any other work. Keep an eye on National Weather Service, Flagstaff office (opens in a new tab) forecasts for storm days.
Write it down
If something stopped working after a storm, note the date and time and what you saw. Keep any damaged parts the company replaces. If you plan to talk to your insurer, those notes and the invoice are useful. This is general information, not insurance advice.
Questions
Can lightning hit a well directly?
A strike nearby can send a surge through the ground or the power lines. Direct hits are not required for damage.
Does insurance cover it?
Ask your insurer. We cannot advise on coverage.
Is the water safe after a storm?
Storms do not usually affect deep well water, but ask if you see changes.
Related help
Want to talk it through?
Call and get connected with a local well pump company.
Call about your well(928) 655-8940