Buying a home with its own well has many advantages. You aren't reliant on your municipal water supply for water, which means you can be more self-sufficient. Well water also allows you to live off-grid, which can be a benefit for people who enjoy a rural government. However, owning a well requires a certain amount of upkeep. Here are four things you'll need to do if you utilize well water in your home.
1. Get your well tested.
You probably had your well water tested for purity before you moved into your house. However, you should continue to have your water tested at least once a year. Water quality can change for any number of reasons, and regular testing can help you keep track of these changes so you can correct problems before they become a safety hazard. Deep wells are typically less susceptible to change, since they bring up groundwater. According to the Groundwater Foundation, shallow wells should be tested more often.
2. Keep your well covered.
One of the simplest ways you can maintain your well is by keeping it covered at all times. Plant matter, bugs, and other foreign objects can contaminate your water supply if they get into your well. Purchase a well cover that fits the top of your well. Check it for cracks and leaks periodically. The sun can cause plastic to warp or become brittle over time, so you may want to invest in a metal well cap.
3. Monitor the age of your well.
Wells have an expiration date. After 20 years have passed, experts recommend discontinuing the use of your current well and constructing a new one. This will help you maintain the purity of your drinking water. Find a well contractor who can dig a well that fits all safety specifications. You'll need to purchase a new well pump if your current pump is older than a decade. The type of pump you purchase will depend on your household's water needs. Submersible pumps are the most common type due to their versatility. A submersible pump is a good investment for both shallow and deep wells.
4. Call a professional for well repairs.
If you begin to have a problem with your well, you should call a professional to diagnose the problem. This isn't an area where you want to do it yourself, since contaminated well water is a safety hazard. A well that is no longer bringing up an adequate amount of water may have a burned-out or jammed pump. Your well repair service can likely clear any clogs from your pump or install a replacement for you, if necessary.
