If you just purchased a property where you are going to need to use a private water well for your drinking water, you need to know how to inspect your well and how to take care of it. Here are a few things you need to know as the new owner of a private well.
#1 Check The Installation
First, you are going to want to check the installation and ensure that the well was properly installed in the first place. You want to ensure that your well was properly installed first before you start using it.
To start with, your septic tank and drainage field should not be located near your well. If they are close by to your well, it could compromise the quality of your well. You are going to want to check and make sure that they are as far away from each other as required by state regulations.
Next, you are going to want to make sure that your well is capped off with a sanitary seal, which is also referred to as a concrete cover. This seal or cover should extend at least a foot above ground. Its purpose is to keep both surface water and pests out of your well.
Also, make sure that the ground near your well slopes downward. This is another way to prevent stagnate water from pooling around your well.
#2 Get Your Well Inspected
It is a smart idea to have your well inspected at least once a year. During the yearly inspection, the well professionals will ensure that all the parts are in good working order. Over time, the cement around your well can crack and a professional can address this. The filter may also need to be replaced as well to keep your water clean. Corrosion can occur around your well that a professional can address. Getting your well inspected on a yearly basis is the best way to ensure that any issues with your well are addressed before they become a real issue.
#3 Keep The Area Around Your Well Clear
Finally, you should keep the area around your well clear as well. You don't want to accidently contaminate your well. You should not use any motor vehicle oils or liquids around your well. You should also keep all pesticides and fertilizers away from your well. Try to keep the area around your well as clear as possible to protect the integrity of your well water.
Make sure that your well is properly installed, keep the area around it clean and clear, and be sure to get the well inspected every year to prevent issues from developing.
