Question
I have a well that I just use for watering the lawn. 1'1/2 HP pump it has a small bladder tank on the top of pump. The bladder is working. The problem I am having is that when the pump is not on for a while, then when the pump comes on, the gage pressure drops and the pump runs untill the pump primes up, its like the pump has to pull up from the ground and prime again. the gage stays at 40 psi untill the pump turns on, then the pressure drops and the pump runs for at 20 psi then it primes up and waters the lawn. Can you help me before the motor burns out, pump was replaced last year.   thanks

Answer
Hi Gary
Looks like the check valve becomes damaged. Pumps loose prime due to a break in the intake line or a check valve that remains open when the pump stops. If there is not breaks in the intake check the check valve (foot valve) if the spring does not close it, replace the valve.

Guillermo