As a homeowner, it is important to keep your water well in top condition. Regular maintenance of your well can help you identify and repair small issues before they become bigger, more expensive problems.

Taking care of your water well is essential for ensuring that it continues to provide safe and clean drinking water for years to come.

To help ensure that your water well stays in good condition, below is an essential checklist you should follow.

Flow Test

A flow test measures the amount of water being produced by the pump. This test helps identify any problems with the pump or other components such as clogged pipes or broken valves.

This test is important to ensure that the pump is producing adequate water volume and pressure for your household needs. The test should be done every 6-12 months or any time you suspect a problem with your pump or water volume.

Water Level Check

If you have a dug or drilled well, it’s important to check the water level regularly to make sure it hasn’t dropped due to excessive use or changes in season.

Checking the level of the water in your well is also important for keeping it running properly. A drop in the level could indicate a potential problem, such as a leak somewhere along the line or inadequate recharge from rainwater.

With regular checks, you can spot potential issues like over-pumping which may require an additional pump or reservoir tank.

Pressure Tank Check

If you have a submersible pump system, then one of the most important parts of your system will be its pressure tank and pressure switch contact check. This helps maintain proper water pressure in your home while protecting your pump from damage due to frequent cycling on and off.

You should perform this check at least twice per year by measuring air pressure levels in the tank using an air gauge tester and checking for any debris in the contact points between the switch and the tank wall.

Performance of the Pump Motor

Another important part of maintaining your home’s water well is checking its pressure tank and pressure switch contact points for corrosion or wear and tear over time.

These components work together to regulate the pressure in your system, so it’s essential that they remain in good condition for optimal performance.

This is especially important if you have an older system as the pump performance tends to decline over time due to wear and tear on components like bearings and seals.

During this test, technicians will measure voltage, and the amperage draw from start-up through to full load operation, as well as check insulation resistance values for each phase of the motor windings. 

It’s recommended that this test be done at least once every two years (or more) depending on how much use your water well gets over time.

Coliform Bacteria Test

Coliform bacteria are naturally occurring microorganisms found in soil, surface waters, and even groundwater sources like wells.

It’s important to have a coliform bacteria test done at least once per year (or more often if necessary) as these bacteria can cause serious illnesses if consumed in large enough quantities. By testing regularly, you can catch problems before they become too serious.  

Hardness Test

A hardness test is used to measure the number of dissolved minerals (mainly calcium and magnesium) in your well water. This test should be conducted at least once per year and can help identify any issues with hard water or mineral build-up.

Nitrate Test

Nitrates occur naturally but can also come from fertilizer runoff or livestock waste seeping into groundwater sources like wells. They are dangerous for infants under six months old so it’s critical that nitrate levels be tested regularly.

Generally speaking, it’s best practice to test for nitrates twice per year.

Visual Inspection

A visual inspection of the well and associated equipment can also help spot potential problems before they become more serious.

Technicians should check for any cracks or leaks in the casing, covers, and seals, as well as inspect the pump house wiring and connections for signs of wear or damage.  

Iron, Manganese, and other Minerals Test

Iron, manganese, and other minerals such as calcium can cause staining on plumbing fixtures, cloudy drinking water, and other unpleasantness.

Regular tests should be performed every few years (or annually if there are noticeable signs of mineral buildup) to ensure these minerals don’t exceed acceptable levels. A professional technician would have the specialized equipment required to perform these tests.

Final Thoughts

Proper maintenance is essential when it comes to ensuring that your home’s water supply remains safe and clean.

By following a regular maintenance schedule and performing the correct tests for your area, you can ensure that your water well remains in optimal condition for years to come. 

This will help keep your home’s water supply safe and free of contaminants while preserving its performance over time.