What is a pump cycle?

A pump cycle occurs when your well pump starts and stops once. The pump turns on when water pressure in your pressure tank falls below a set threshold, usually around 20 to 40 pounds per square inch (psi), depending on your system setup. Water flows into the tank until pressure rises to a cutoff point, typically 20 to 60 psi higher than the start pressure. At that higher pressure, the pump shuts off. That entire sequence, from start to stop, counts as one cycle.

The amount of water delivered during each cycle is called drawdown volume. A healthy system might have drawdown volumes between 10 and 30 gallons in typical Bonner County residential installations, though this varies with tank size and system configuration. Frequent, short cycles (running more than six to eight times per hour) often signal problems like a waterlogged tank, a failed pressure tank diaphragm, or a leak in the system. These rapid cycles stress the pump motor and can shorten equipment life.

Monitoring your pump cycle count matters because it tells you whether your system is working efficiently. If you notice your pump running constantly or cycling far more often than usual, the pressure tank or switch may need attention from a qualified technician. Understanding cycle behavior helps homeowners spot trouble early. Pressure tank and system repair providers can diagnose and adjust cycle problems to restore normal operation.