Troubleshooting

Dealing with a flashing red light on your controller, rapid clicking from the pressure switch, or a sudden loss of water? Welcome to the most comprehensive Well Pump Troubleshooting & Error Codes Hub. We translate complex manufacturer service manuals into clear, actionable advice for homeowners.

Inside our diagnostic guides, you will find:

Error Code Decoders: Exact meanings and root causes for faults on leading VFD controllers (Franklin Electric, Grundfos CU 301, Goulds Aquavar, Pentair, and more).
Symptom Analysis: Step-by-step guides for diagnosing classic systems without screens (short cycling, sputtering air, dead motors).
DIY vs. Professional Repair: Clear safety boundaries detailing what you can test yourself (like air charge and start capacitors) and when you absolutely need a specialized pump hoist rig.

Don’t let a minor fault turn into a burnt-out motor. Select your brand or symptom below to find a solution, or use our nationwide directory to connect with a certified well repair technician in your state.

Franklin SubDrive 2 Flashes: Short Circuit Fault Guide

Diagnosis: A Franklin Electric SubDrive ‘2 Flashes’ error code signifies a critical output fault due to a short circuit. This is most often caused by a failed waterproof cable splice or abrasion of the submersible cable against the well casing, leading to a phase-to-phase or phase-to-ground short. A professional repair involves pulling the pump and […]

Franklin SubDrive 2 Flashes: Short Circuit Fault Guide Read More »

Franklin SubDrive 3-Flash Code: Bound Pump Guide

Diagnosis: A Franklin Electric SubDrive or MonoDrive displaying a 3-flash error code indicates a ‘Bound Pump’ or ‘Overload’ fault. This is typically caused by a mechanical seizure of the pump or motor downhole due to sand/sediment intrusion, bearing failure, or a burned motor winding. Professional diagnosis and pulling the pump from the well are required

Franklin SubDrive 3-Flash Code: Bound Pump Guide Read More »

Franklin SubDrive 5 Flashes: Pro Undervoltage Fix Guide

Diagnosis: A Franklin SubDrive controller flashing 5 times signifies a critical undervoltage fault, where the incoming line voltage has fallen below the drive’s minimum operating threshold (typically around 195V for a 230V system). This protective shutdown prevents catastrophic motor damage and is commonly caused by utility grid sags, a failing circuit breaker, or undersized supply

Franklin SubDrive 5 Flashes: Pro Undervoltage Fix Guide Read More »

Franklin SubDrive 6 Flashes: Overvoltage Repair Guide

Diagnosis: A 6-flash error on a Franklin Electric SubDrive or MonoDrive signals a critical overvoltage condition, often from lightning strikes or utility grid instability. This fault protects the VFD and motor from damage by shutting down when line voltage exceeds safe limits. Troubleshooting involves verifying input voltage, inspecting for surge damage, and potentially replacing the

Franklin SubDrive 6 Flashes: Overvoltage Repair Guide Read More »

Grundfos CU 301 Dry Run Error: Pro Troubleshooting Guide

Diagnosis: A Grundfos CU 301 Dry Running alarm (Red Indicator #1) signifies the well water level has dropped below the SQE pump’s intake, causing a protective shutdown. This advanced feature prevents motor burnout by detecting the low-amperage condition of pumping air instead of water. The primary solution involves allowing the well to recover, but persistent

Grundfos CU 301 Dry Run Error: Pro Troubleshooting Guide Read More »

Grundfos CU 301 Overvoltage Error: Pro Guide (Code >280V)

Diagnosis: A Grundfos CU 301 ‘Overvoltage’ fault indicates the incoming power supply has exceeded the 280V safety limit, triggering a protective shutdown of the SQE pump. This is most often caused by utility grid issues, such as a failing neutral conductor, or incorrect transformer tapping. Immediate diagnosis is critical to prevent permanent damage to the

Grundfos CU 301 Overvoltage Error: Pro Guide (Code >280V) Read More »