Alert
Time To Check Water Wells
March 21, 2008

Why have my water well checked annually?

An annual checkup by a licensed or certified water well contractor is the best way to make sure you have problem-free service and quality water. Preventative maintenance usually is less costly than emergency maintenance and can prolong the life of your well and its equipment. 

Test your water anytime there is a change in taste, odor or appearance, or anytime the system is serviced.

What Does a Checkup Involve?

A licensed and/or certified water well contractor should conduct your routine well checkup. The checkup should include: 

• A flow test to determine system output, along with a check of the water level before and during pumping (if possible), pump motor performance, pressure tank and pressure switch contact, and general water quality (odor, cloudiness, etc.). 
• An inspection of well equipment to assure that it is sanitary and meets local code requirements. 
• A test of your water for coliform bacteria and nitrates, and anything else of local concern. Other typical tests are iron, manganese, water hardness, sulfides, and other causes of staining, water appearance, and odor.  Tests may be recommended if water appears cloudy or oily, if bacterial growth is visible on fixtures, or water treatment devices are not working as they should.
• A written report should be delivered to you following the checkup that explains results and recommendations, and includes all laboratory and other test results.

How Do I Arrange a Checkup?

A licensed and/or certified water well contractor should conduct your routine well checkup. To arrange for a checkup:

1. Contact a local water well contractor. Check your phone book under "Well Drilling and Service." 
2. Ask if he or she conducts the type of maintenance check described above.
3. Ask the contractor for a list of references.

Other Steps to Maintain Your Water Well

• Keep hazardous chemicals, such as paint, fertilizer, pesticides, and motor oil far away from your well, and maintain a "clean" zone of at least 50 feet between your well and any kennels or livestock. 
• Keep proper separation between your well and buildings, waste systems, or chemical storage areas. Your professional water well contractor is familiar with local codes. 
• Check the well cover or well cap on top of the casing (well) to ensure it is in good condition and securely attached. Its seal should keep out insects and rodents.
• Keep your well records in a safe place (construction report, and annual water well system maintenance and water testing results).

What if I don’t use my well for drinking water?

It is still possible for bacteria and chemicals to enter the home’s public water system from the well.  This can happen when a drop of water pressure from the public system draws water from the well into the public system.  This is not only a health concern for your home, but also puts the public system at risk for water borne diseases.

A good backflow (or back siphonage prevention device) should be installed by a qualified contractor.   Homeowners can avoid problems by hiring qualified contractors to repair or replace the home’s water system plumbing.  These devices should also be checked every year.