When a borehole stops delivering, it is rarely obvious why — the pump is metres underground and out of sight. Here is how to narrow down whether it is power, the pump, or the water itself.
Start with the power
Check whether the pump's breaker or earth leakage has tripped, and whether the control box has power and is functioning. If the pump trips the power when it tries to start, that points to an electrical or motor fault — a job for an electrician, not repeated resetting.
Consider the water level
In dry Highveld winters the water table can drop below the pump intake. The pump then runs dry and its dry-run protection cuts it out. If your borehole has worked fine until a dry spell, a dropped level is a likely cause — it may need the pump lowered or usage managed until levels recover.
Pump and pressure faults
A worn or blocked pump, or a faulty pressure switch, can also stop delivery or cause short-cycling. These are mechanical faults to diagnose once power and water level are ruled out.
Electrical or plumbing?
Both can be involved — the supply, control box, cabling and motor are electrical; the pump and pressure switch are mechanical. We diagnose the electrical side, where most borehole-pump failures originate, with fault finding, and advise on the rest. Pairing a borehole with tank storage also smooths supply. Book a callout.