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The PV Team

We keep water flowing in rural Ottawa with a team of licensed well technicians, water treatment specialists and plumbers.

How to Reset Your Low Water Cut-Off Switch and Get Water Flowing Again!

Your morning shower is on hold, the dishes are piling up, and that refreshing glass of water seems miles away. Sometimes, the culprit behind a seemingly dead well pump isn’t a major breakdown, but rather a tripped low water cut-off (LWCO) switch.

The low water cut-off switch is designed to protect your well pump from running dry, which can cause significant damage and costly repairs. When the water pressure in your home drops too low, the LWCO switch automatically shuts off the pump. While this is a good thing for your pump’s longevity, it can be frustrating if you don’t know how to reset it. For this reason we only recommend installing one if you know you have a low well yield.

The good news? Resetting a low water cut-off switch is often a straightforward process you can do yourself!

Low Water Cut Off Pressure Switch For Well Pump

Why Did My Low Water Cut-Off Switch Trip?

Before you reset, it’s helpful to understand why the switch might have tripped in the first place. Common reasons include:

  • Heavy Water Usage: A sudden surge in water demand (think multiple showers, laundry, and dishwasher all running) can cause your pressure to drop if your pump cannot keep up to demand.
  • Power Outage: A power outage can trick your low water cut off into engaging.
  • Drought Conditions: Prolonged dry spells can naturally lower your well’s water level.
  • Well Drawdown: Over-pumping your well or having a well that’s not recovering quickly enough can cause the water level to drop.
 

Important Note: If your LWCO switch is tripping frequently, it could be a sign of an underlying issue that needs to be addressed by a professional well technician.

How to Reset Your Low Water Cut-Off Switch (Step-by-Step)

The exact location and type of reset arm can vary depending on your specific LWCO switch model. However, the general principles remain the same.

  1. Locate Your Low Water Cut-Off Switch: The LWCO switch is typically found near your well pressure tank, often on the brass tank tee exiting the pressure tank. You will also see electrical wires entering the device and they typically will have a grey or black plastic cap.
  2. Identify the Reset Mechanism: Typically the switch will have a small lever or toggle arm on the side of the switch that needs to be activated.
  3. Ensure Water Level Has Recovered: This is critical! Do NOT reset the switch if you suspect your well is still low on water. Give your well some time (an hour or two, or even overnight if heavy usage was the cause) to recover its water level. Resetting the switch while the well is dry will cause the pump to run without water, leading to damage.
  4. Activate the Reset: Once you’ve confirmed the water level has likely recovered, firmly pull the reset arm to a 45 degree andgle from the horizontal position. You will feel tension and may need a set of pliers to do this if you hand starts to hurt. 
  5. Listen and Observe: Your well pump should now kick on. Listen for the sound of it running and observe your water pressure. It might take a few moments for the pressure to build back up. Once it hit 20-30 PSI you may release the arm and the switch will automatically take over. If pressure does not start to build, release the switch and contact us!

What If It Doesn't Reset or Trips Again Immediately?

If you follow these steps and your well pump doesn’t come back on, or if the LWCO switch trips again shortly after resetting, it’s time to call in the professionals. These are indicators of a more serious issue that requires expert diagnosis and repair.

Possible reasons for continued tripping include:

  • Critically Low Well Water: Your well may be significantly depleted and requires professional attention (e.g., rehabilitation, deepening the well).
  • Faulty LWCO Switch: The switch itself might be defective and needs to be replaced.
  • Pump Issues: There could be an underlying problem with your well pump (e.g., motor issues, clogged impeller).
  • Pressure Tank Problems: Issues with your pressure tank can sometimes trigger LWCO problems.

Keep Your Well Flowing!

Understanding your well system and knowing how to perform basic troubleshooting like resetting your low water cut-off switch can save you time, money, and a lot of frustration. However, always remember that safety comes first, and for persistent issues, don’t hesitate to contact us to ensure your water supply remains reliable and your well pump stays in top condition. Contact us today!