Why You Should Not Ignore Well Maintenance

Proper well maintenance is crucial to the longevity of a well and good water. But more often than not, once the well has been dug and a pump installed, it is common for owners to ignore maintenance practices. If you are one of the many people ignoring their wells, the following facts will compel you to change your mind.

Impact on health

Neglecting your well can lead to a negative impact on your health. A poorly maintained well increases the potential of bacteria entering and contaminating the water. This can happen through the sanitary seals. For example, if the cap is damaged, loose or deteriorated, it will make it easy for bacteria to get into the well. Once the well has been contaminated, the bacterial will lead to health problems like diarrhea, vomiting, or stomach upset. Severe health problems can be caused by the E. coli bacteria.

Life of the well

Proper well maintenance will prolong the usefulness of your well. Regular inspections are required for this. The inspections will help identify problems and have them fixed in good time. Regular inspections will guarantee your well system is running properly. This will in turn prolong the life of your well.

Though well maintenance is essential, you should not be tempted to do it on your own. You will need to work with a qualified professional who is licensed. Such a professional will know how to make all the necessary inspections, give recommendations on proper use as well as fix minor problems before they worsen.

Steps in routine inspections

·       Look at the wellhead. This is the part above ground that is made up of the well casing and the well cap. Any form of damage should be corrected as soon as possible to prevent contamination.

·       System components. Look at the pumping equipment, wiring and other parts such as joint seals, pressure relief valves, gauges, and water meter. Are they in good condition?

·       Inspect the components of the system. Test the pump, inspect the valves and do electrical testing. A qualified professional will also inspect the water heaters, the control box, water softeners, conditioners, liquid level control, pressure tanks, and the filtration equipment.

·       The inspector should provide a written inspection report that should include photos or even videos.

Indicators that a well maintenance is necessary include the following:

·       Cloudy water

·       Positive water test for the presence of bacteria

·       Odor or taste problems

·       Drop in water pressure

The above signs often times means the well needs cleaning. The cleaner will remove the debris from your well, clean up the system components as well as flush the geologic formations which surround the well. Well chlorination will be needed to kill bacteria in a contaminated well.

A well that is properly maintained will serve you for longer and keep your family safe from health problems. You should consider calling in an inspector every once in a while to inspect the condition of your well. In addition to that, make sure you have the contact information of a well maintenance service provider that offers emergency services.

Posted By: KCW Water Well http://kcwwaterwell.com