Well Maintenance

As groundwater levels decline, wells may not pump as much water because there is less saturated aquifer to draw from and pumps may cycle more frequently. If you depend on a domestic well as your primary water supply, good well maintenance can help you anticipate or prevent a water shortage. To avoid being left ‘high and dry’ in a time of drought, use the following list to check the condition of your well:

• Know how your well is constructed. It may be possible to lower the pump in your well when water levels are low.

• Periodically measure the water level in your well. Knowing how the water level changes over time can help you anticipate when or if problems are likely to occur.

• Make sure that pressure tanks are properly adjusted and that there are no leaks in the supply system. Electrical problems, such as a malfunctioning switch at the pressure tank, may also cause a loss of water. Replace pressure tanks from time to time.

• Keep more water available for use by installing a larger storage system and allow the water level in the well to recover between pumping cycles.

• Well-screen openings can become clogged with sediment and mineral deposits. It may be possible to increase the production of a well by rehabilitation methods such as brushing and chemical treatment.

Always use a licensed or certified well driller or pump installer for advice and assistance with well and pump system maintenance.