Inspecting Well Mechanics

A well is a strategic access point created by drilling into an aquifer to access water. To extract water from the ground, a pipe and a pump are used, and a screen is used to filter out unwanted particles that could clog the pipe. According to the EPA, over 23 million households in the United States rely on private wells for drinking water (as of August 2021). However, private wells are not regulated by the EPA, and they do not provide any recommended criteria or standards for individual wells. This means that private well owners are responsible for the safety of their water. Having a well has many benefits, including the ability to access high-quality water immediately and to have control over the water supply. However, with these benefits come the responsibility of maintaining a clean and efficient well. The best way to do this is by conducting an annual well inspection.

Well inspections are performed by certified professionals to ensure your water is healthy and obtainable. A well inspection should include:

• A visual inspection that checks the well cap and drainage ability–is the well at least a foot above ground? Does the ground slope away from the well?

• A flow test that checks system output, water levels, pump motor, and pressure tank performance

• Making sure well equipment–like the valves and electrical components–is clean, functional, and up to code

• Testing water quality for harmful bacteria and chemicals

• A clear report of results, including lab results for water

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends testing your well annually for coliform bacteria, nitrates, total dissolved solids, pH levels, and other suspected contaminants. Taking care of your well is just one part of caring for your largest investment–your home. At Just Maintenance, we want to help you keep your home healthy and happy. If you ever have any questions about our services, we invite you to contact us any time!