Just as you check your furnace or smoke detector batteries seasonally, spring is a good season to have an annual water well checkup before the peak water use season begins, according to the National Ground Water Association. NGWA calls attention to the need for annual well water checkups during Groundwater Awareness Week (March 10-16).
An annual checkup by a qualified water well contractor is the best way to ensure problem-free service and quality water.
Preventative maintenance usually is less costly than emergency maintenance, and good well maintenance like good car maintenance can prolong the life of your well and related equipment. NGWA further recommends you test your water whenever there is a change in taste, odor, or appearance, or when the system is serviced.
“Montana Farm Bureau follows all water issues closely and having clean groundwater and well water is essential for everyone,” says John Youngberg, MFBF’s water policy expert. “Many of our members live in rural areas and depend on well water for all of their water needs. It’s critical that they play a part in keeping their water source clean and have their wells checked regularly for bacteria or harmful minerals.”
Wells can provide high-quality drinking water, and about half the U.S. population receives its drinking water from wells. But with well ownership comes the responsibility of keeping the water well in good working order. A check of your well by a qualified water well contractor may include:
A flow test to determine system output, along with a check of the water level before and during pumping (if possible), pump motor performance (check amp load, grounding and line voltage), pressure tank and pressure switch contact and general water quality (odor, cloudiness, etc.).
A well equipment inspection to assure it’s sanitary and meets local code.
A test of your water for coliform bacteria and nitrates, and anything else of local concern. Other typical additional tests are those for iron, manganese, water hardness, sulfides and other water constituents that cause problems with plumbing, staining, water appearance and odor.
It is also recommended that well owners:
Keep hazardous chemicals, such as paint, fertilizer, pesticides and motor oil far away from wells, and maintain a “clean” zone of at least 50 feet between your well and any kennels and livestock operations.
Maintain proper separation between your well and buildings, waste systems and chemical storage areas.
Periodically check the well cover or well cap on top of the casing (well) to ensure it is in good repair and securely attached. Its seal should keep out insects and rodents.
Keep your well records in a safe place. These include the construction report, and annual water well system maintenance and water testing results.
Visit http://www.ngwa.org or http://www.wellowner.org for more information.
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