Well-Owner's Check List

by Mary Ann Romans | More from this Blogger

06 Sep 2007 06:18 AM

Do you own a well? Properly constructed wells (private water systems) really require very little to maintain. But, you do want to be aware of any potential problems. This season is a good time to check on that well and do any required maintenance.

Don't know where to start? Here is the well-owner's checklist.

Check the well cap or cover that is on top of your well. Look for cracks or other signs that it needs repair.

Check the landscaping and land grading around the well. Make sure that the top of your well is at least one foot above the ground. If it isn't, then you may have to dig out around it. The ground should be sloped away from the well for proper drainage.

Keep leaves, grass clippings, snow and other debris away from the well. The can more readily seep into the ground water or cause moisture to build up around the well.

When mowing your lawn, be very careful around your well. You might want to use a weed wacker or hand trim this area. Damage to the casing (the outside cement of the well) could cause bacteria to enter your water.

Make sure that hazardous materials are stored far away from your well. This includes paint, fertilizer and motor oil.

Make sure every household member knows about back-siphoning. If you are using your garden hose to mix up chemicals such as fertilizer, pesticides, etc., never put the garden hose in the container of chemicals. Those chemicals could leach back through the hose and into your water.

Perform a bacteria test once a year or whenever there is a change in your water's smell, taste or appearance. You can get home kits to do this, or contact a well water company. Companies often test your water for free or low cost in the hopes that you will contract with them if there is a problem.

Mary Ann Romans writes about everything related to saving money in the Frugal Blog, technology in the Computing Blog, and creating a home in the Home Blog. You can read more of her articles by clicking here.

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Learn more about Mary Ann Romans

Mary Ann Romans is a freelance writer and mother of three children. She lives in Pennsylvania with her husband, the kids and a 16-pound cat.

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