Owning a home with a well is a great way to have independent access to clean water, but it also comes with its own set of responsibilities. Like any other part of your home, a well requires regular maintenance to keep it functioning properly. While issues can arise, they are usually straightforward to resolve if you know who to contact. In this guide, we’ll walk you through best practices for maintaining your well and what to do if problems come up.
Well Maintenance: The Key to Reliable Water
Taking care of your well isn’t complicated, but it does require some attention. Here’s what homeowners should prioritize:
- Monitor Water Quality
- Testing your well water annually for bacteria, nitrates, and pH levels is a best practice to ensure safety and detect any changes over time.
- Keep Your Well Cap Secure
- Ensure the well cap is tightly sealed to prevent debris, insects, and small animals from getting inside and contaminating your water supply.
- Inspect Your Pressure Tank and Pump
- Check the pressure tank for leaks and confirm the pump is running efficiently to avoid water pressure problems.
- Prevent Contamination
- Store chemicals, fertilizers, and waste at least 50 feet away from your well to protect your water source.
- Know Who to Call for Well Maintenance
- Just like HVAC systems or roofing, wells occasionally need professional attention. Having a trusted well service provider on hand can save time and prevent bigger issues.
Common Well Issues and Simple Solutions
While wells are generally reliable, they can experience problems just like any other home system. The good news? Most issues have straightforward solutions when addressed early.
1. Low Water Pressure
- Possible Causes: A clogged filter, a failing pressure tank, or a worn-out pump.
- Solution: Replace the filter first. If pressure is still low, have a professional check the pressure tank and pump.
2. No Water Coming from the Well
- Possible Causes: A power outage, pump failure, or a dry well.
- Solution: First, check if a circuit breaker has tripped. If power isn’t the issue, a well contractor can assess pump function and water levels.
3. Water Contamination (Cloudy, Smelly, or Discolored Water)
- Possible Causes: Bacteria, sediment buildup, or high mineral levels.
- Solution: Installing filtration systems, UV purifiers, or water softeners can address most water quality concerns.
4. Air in the Water Lines
- Possible Causes: A failing pressure tank, leaks in the well piping, or a malfunctioning check valve.
- Solution: Inspect the pressure tank and connections for leaks. Persistent air issues should be assessed by a well professional.
5. Hard Water or High Iron Content
- Possible Causes: Naturally occurring minerals in the groundwater.
- Solution: A water softener or iron filtration system can prevent stains and extend the life of appliances.
How Living with a Well Differs from City Water
| Feature | Well Water | City Water |
| Water Source | Private well (groundwater) | Municipal water system |
| Water Quality | Needs periodic testing | Monitored by the city |
| Cost | No monthly bill, but maintenance costs | Monthly water bill, but less maintenance |
| Pressure | Can vary, requires a pump | Consistent pressure |
| Filtration Needed? | Often, depending on water quality | Typically pre-treated |
Owning a well means taking charge of your home’s water supply. While it requires a little extra responsibility, common issues are typically easy to resolve with the right approach.
If you ever run into a problem, we’re happy to help connect you with experienced well professionals who can keep your system running smoothly. Reach out to us anytime for guidance!