Servicing a well involves routine checks and maintenance to ensure a safe and reliable water supply. Basic maintenance steps include inspecting the wellhead, maintaining proper separation from potential contaminants, and understanding the role of professional assistance.
Essential Well Maintenance Practices
Regular well servicing helps protect your water quality and the longevity of your well system. While professional contractors handle complex issues, homeowners play a vital role in ongoing maintenance.
Inspecting the Well Cover
Periodically check the well cover or well cap on top of the casing (well) to ensure it is in good repair. The well cover is crucial for preventing contaminants like insects, small animals, and debris from entering the well. Look for cracks, damage, or loose fittings that could compromise its protective seal. A damaged cover should be repaired or replaced promptly.
Maintaining Proper Separation
Preventing contamination starts with maintaining adequate distance between your well and sources of pollution. Always maintain proper separation between your well and buildings, waste systems, or chemical storage facilities. This physical distance, combined with the natural filtering of the soil, helps protect your groundwater. Understanding and adhering to local regulations regarding well placement is critical.
Professional Expertise
While routine checks can be done by the homeowner, professional expertise is invaluable for well servicing and understanding regulations. Your professional contractor knows the rules regarding well construction, maintenance, and separation distances. They can perform thorough inspections, conduct necessary repairs, and provide guidance specific to your well system.
Preventing Back-Siphonage
Another important aspect of protecting your well water quality is preventing back-siphonage. Don't allow back-siphonage. Back-siphonage occurs when a drop in water pressure causes water (potentially contaminated) to flow backward from a hose or fixture into your well system. This can happen if a hose is submerged in contaminated water (like a pool, pond, or laundry tub) when pressure drops. Using anti-siphon devices (like hose bib vacuum breakers) is a common way to prevent this.
Here's a quick summary of key actions:
- Regularly inspect the well cap/cover for damage.
- Ensure adequate separation from potential contamination sources (septic systems, chemical storage, etc.).
- Consult a professional well contractor for detailed checks and maintenance.
- Install and use anti-siphon devices on outdoor faucets to prevent backflow.
Maintaining your well proactively through these steps contributes significantly to its overall health and the safety of your drinking water.
