When you have a water well on your property, maintenance is everything. This includes having the water tested regularly, cleaning the well, and checking that the components are in proper working order. However, water well maintenance also includes being aware of the common pollutants that can contaminate the water.

Common Contaminants & The Importance of Water Well Maintenance

Phosphates & Nitrates

Despite the fact phosphates and nitrates occur in nature and are found in fertilizers and pesticides, an excessive amount is dangerous. If nearby farms use them frequently, they may have seeped into the groundwater. They have been linked to major health problems for babies, pregnant women, young children, and the elderly, as well as to various cancers and kidney issues. Only testing can determine their existence in your well water; it can’t be inferred by taste or smell. As a part of proper water well maintenance, at the very least, make sure to set up an annual test.

Heavy Metals

A metallic taste or scent usually reveals whether there are heavy metals, such as iron, lead, arsenic, manganese, or copper, in the water. Too much exposure can lead to toxicity problems with the liver, kidneys, and other intestines. Cancer is also a possibility. Extreme amounts are commonly caused by manufacturing and industrial runoff, as well an old plumbing piping. If you have any refineries, mines, or factories near you, have your water tested.

Pathogens

A lack of sanitation and a proximity to farms, landfills, or sites of sewage can lead to the presence of pathogens like E. coli and Cryptosporidium (commonly referred to as “Crypto”). E. coli is a bacteria while Crypto is a parasite. Both can cause severe diarrhea but the former can also lead to other gastrointestinal problems like nausea and vomiting. Aside from these symptoms, the smell of rotten eggs in the water can also be a sign of pathogens. Regular well cleaning will prevent this from becoming a problem.

For those in the Snowflake, AZ, area and worried about potential contaminants, contact Copperstate Drilling & Supply for water well maintenance. For more than 50 years, they’ve served both residential and commercial customers throughout the region. Other than water well services, they can also help with sump pumps, solar pumps, and water tanks! To learn more about everything they offer, feel free to call them at (928) 536-4447.