A water well that is properly maintained can avoid costly repairs and keep homeowners happy. When problems arise, however, many homeowners find themselves calling in an expert.
This can be due to several factors, from changes in the appearance and taste of water to mechanical failure. Performing regular inspections can catch many issues before they become severe.
Regular Inspections
Regular inspections are the key to keeping a water well in good working condition. Property managers should schedule these checkups to evaluate the condition of their pump, piping systems, and wiring. They should also test their well water to ensure it is free of contaminants such as bacteria and nitrates.
While some bacteria are unavoidable in the water, harmful microorganisms like E. coli and Legionella Pneumophilia can make people seriously ill if they are ingested. Other sources of contamination include fecal contamination from livestock, naturally occurring chemicals such as arsenic and radon, chemical-laden runoff from nearby farms, and hazardous waste such as paint, solvents, motor oil, fertilizers, pesticides, and herbicides. The best way to avoid these contaminates is to ensure that all chemicals are kept far away from your well and the surrounding area.
Water Testing
Water testing is one of the most important aspects of water well Brazoria County maintenance. This is because it helps you identify contaminants and ensures your well is safe to use. Testing your well water at least once every couple of years is recommended. But it’s also essential to test your well water more frequently if you notice a change in your drinking water’s taste, odor, or color.
Well water testing helps you identify various natural and artificial contaminants, including bacteria, lead, arsenic, nitrates, phosphates, high hardness, low pH, and more. A professional should perform water tests to ensure accurate results.
Homeowners can get their well water tested using a kit purchased from a state-certified laboratory. These kits typically include directions on collecting a sample, sealing it, and sending it safely for testing.
Pump Maintenance
Like any equipment in your building, your water well pumps require maintenance to keep them running smoothly for years. Wells that aren’t properly maintained can easily get clogged by mineral deposits, organism growth, and other debris.
Pumps should be inspected externally and internally to ensure they are functioning properly. Flow tests, mechanical seal testing, and vibration analysis are all important aspects of a routine inspection.
The area surrounding your well should be considered sacred. Hazardous materials such as paint, pesticides, and fertilizers should not be used near your well. Similarly, it is important to avoid covering the wellhead with mulch or plants for aesthetic reasons. Covering the wellhead can lead to back-siphonage, a serious water quality problem.
Well Cleaning
Your well is a nutrient-rich water source that can be used to promote your health and wellness. However, your well will only work properly if routinely inspected and maintained.
Neglecting your well can lead to several problems, including decreased water quality and poor water pressure. The good news is that regular inspections and cleanings can prevent many of these problems.
Be sure to regularly inspect your well to ensure the well cap is secure and nothing has broken off or impacted it. It’s also important to keep the area around you well-protected from contaminants. Avoid using fertilizers, pesticides, or other chemicals near your well, and be cautious when using motor oil. These contaminants can be a silent threat that can hurt your water quality.
Well Repairs
Water wells need regular maintenance to work properly. Property managers should conduct regular inspections, test the water quality, and address any problems promptly.
Inspecting the pump, pressure tank, and electrical connections can help catch issues before they become major problems. Testing the water quality can also help identify contaminants in the well water.
If a well experiences problems such as low water pressure, bad-tasting water, or sediment, it is time to call a professional well contractor. Keeping your well in good repair is the best way to ensure you have an adequate water supply and healthy drinking water for you and your family. You should also ensure that the area around your well is free from any chemicals or pollutants.
