Pump at 40/60 but runs every three minutes

Hello - I'm a newbie to the homeowner world and we've found issues with almost all of our major appliances since we moved in 18 months ago.

Today's issue: the well pump switches on every three minutes or so. In reading threads I'm learning this could cause future problems so I'd like to fix it fast and cheap (yeah, right, huh?). Anyway, we haven't had any problems with water pressure at the faucet. The cut-in pressure seems to be around 40, and the cut-out at 60. But as soon as it hits 60 and turns off, the pressure gauge rapidly loses pressure to take it to 40. There are no visible leaks anywhere in the house, and we have the outside faucets turned off and open for the winter (we're in Michigan). The tank is a big A.O. Smith Aqua-Air.

I've read as much as I can on the subject, but am having trouble identifying the a) problem and b) most of the "pressure switches" and "valves" mentioned in former threads.

I'm sure this is a common issue that you've all address in the past. Sorry to ask you to retype a solution (or even some hints) but any advice would be GREATLY appreciated! Thank you!

-M.Q.

pressure

You have a leak. We cannot tell you where it is because it could be in the building, or the check valve could allow the water to drain back into the well. Either case would cause the pump to cycle frequently.

Check valve

Is that something that is accessible to examine?

At/on/just past the pressure tank shut off the water. Watch the pressure guage and if the pressure falls, you have a leak on the well side of the pressure tank. It can be underground to the well or in the well. Most common is a leaking check valve in/on the outlet of the pump. You have to pull the pump and replace the check valve or add another on the outlet since most are in the outlet.

When you start to lift the pump, if the line is full of water and holds the level, the check valve is not leaking but, you can pressurize the line with water or air to mak sure it seals.

While watching the pressure guage, if the pressure doesn't fall, the leak is on the house side of the pressure tank.

I have valves on both sides of my tank so I can check which direction the leak is from.

Having one between the pump and pressure switch is not only un-necessary, but could cause a pump nucleur meltdown.

bob...