Common Submersible Pump Problems & Solutions
Diagnose and fix frequent borewell pump issues — low water, tripping, noise, overheating and no discharge.
Most submersible pump problems come from installation issues, water level changes, electrical faults or wrong pump selection. This guide covers the most common symptoms and practical solutions before you call for service.
Pump not starting
Possible causes:
- No power or tripped MCB — check supply and control panel
- Low voltage — use stabilizer; motors need rated voltage
- Cable fault or loose joint — inspect cable from panel to pump
- Dry run protection activated — verify water level in borewell
Solution: Restore power, fix cable joints, ensure adequate water level, then restart. If motor hums but does not spin, contact authorized service.
Pump running but no water
Possible causes:
- Water level dropped below pump intake
- NRV (non-return valve) stuck or leaking
- Pipeline leak or air lock in delivery pipe
- Impeller choked with sand or debris
- Wrong pump depth setting
Solution: Check water level, inspect NRV and pipes, clean strainer, verify pump is submerged correctly. A complete system inspection restores flow.
Low water pressure or reduced flow
Possible causes:
- Partially blocked strainer or pipeline
- Increased pipe friction from undersized pipe
- Worn impeller or declining water table
- Pump operating below rated voltage
Solution: Clean strainer every 3–6 months, verify pipe diameter matches pump capacity, test voltage at panel, and reassess HP if water table has fallen significantly.
Frequent tripping or overload
Possible causes:
- Overload relay set too low
- Single phase failure on three phase supply
- Mechanical binding or sand ingress
- Pump oversized for borewell yield (cycling)
Solution: Check all three phases, reset overload correctly, inspect for sand damage, and confirm pump HP matches borewell capacity with your dealer.
Unusual noise or vibration
Possible causes:
- Pump hitting borewell wall during installation
- Loose mounting or worn bearings
- Cavitation from insufficient submergence
- Electrical imbalance
Solution: Ensure central alignment in borewell, maintain minimum submergence as per guidelines, schedule dealer inspection for bearing or mechanical wear.
When to call Kingwell service
Contact your nearest authorized Kingwell dealer if:
- Motor burns repeatedly after repair attempts
- Water flow suddenly stops after years of normal use
- Warranty repair is needed
- Pump needs pulling and inspection from borewell
Keep GST invoice and warranty card ready for faster support.