If you own a summer home that relies on a well as its main water resource, you may be ready to wind down usage for the season. Whether you plan to return to the property next season or rent it out, the water must be free from contaminants like bacteria and heavy metals. What does late summer water well maintenance entail? Use the following checklist to get started. 

Water Well Maintenance Basics

1. Examine The Wellhead

Open the wellhead to inspect the casing, or the pipe jutting out from the ground, for signs of wear and tear. The casing should extend at least 12 inches above the ground to protect the well from contamination. Check the well cap for broken seals and inspect all electrical conduit connections, if applicable.

2. Test for Nitrates & Bacteria

Making sure the water is clean now ensures it will be safe to use and consume next year. Home kits do not provide complete results for nitrates and bacteria, so schedule professional testing with a water well maintenance team. Water sampling looks for hundreds of contaminants, including arsenic, lead, pharmaceuticals, heavy metals, nitrates, and bacteria strains.

3. Check the System Components

Inspect well system components and equipment such as above-ground pump motors for signs of rust and overheating. Look at all pipes, gauges, joint seals, connections, and valves for corrosion and other damage, as well the electrical control box and any storage tanks. Schedule professional water well maintenance if you suspect problems that could affect pressure in the house.

4. Clean the Area Around the Well

Clean the area around your well, especially if other people used your summer home—they may have accidentally left contaminants by the water source. Remove any paint, fertilizer, motor oil, and pesticides and ensure there are at least 50 feet between the well and livestock or pet areas such as outdoor kennels. Dig up any plants with extensive root systems and move them to another section of the property at least 20 feet away to avoid well infiltration.

5. Close the Well

Close the well by making sure the well cap is tightly sealed, and all potential contaminants and vegetation have been thoroughly removed. If you intend to rent out the house next summer, mark the area to show renters where the well is located or leave laminated directions so they know how to keep all potential contaminants away from the area.
 

Fall will be here before you know it, but there’s still plenty of time to request end-of-summer service. Morgan Well & Pump Inc. has provided the Kannapolis, NC, area with exceptional water well maintenance since 1948. A family-owned business for four generations, this well drilling company provides the services you need for the freshest, cleanest water. Call (704) 933-0479 today for your free estimate or visit the website for additional well water service information. Like the Facebook page for more professional tips.