Water wells date back thousands of years, but having your own is a unique experience for many. Those new to the world of well services will have plenty of questions both before and after they officially make the switch. Familiarizing yourself with your new water well is the key to a properly maintained system with a long, healthy life, so here are a few frequently asked questions to start new owners on the right foot.

New Water Well Owner FAQs

What Benefits Do Wells Provide?

First and foremost, wells provide easy access to clean water on a regular basis. You'll save money in the process, too, especially when it comes to avoiding high water bills based on monthly usage. The addition of a new well is also a great way to increase your property value.

Where Should Your Well Be Drilled?

Once you have all the necessary permits in place, your well drilling company will test the surrounding area for the quality and quantity of water available. Location depends on more than geology, though. Drainage capabilities and slope grading play into the final decision, and your well will need to be drilled at a minimum distance from potential sources of contamination such as septic tanks and any nearby road boundaries.

How Do You Determine Well Depth?

According to the Water Systems Council, most residential wells can be anywhere from 100 to 800 feet deep, with some exceeding the 1,000-foot mark. The deeper a well goes, though, the more of an increase you'll see in minerals, which will call for the addition of a water softening system. Well drilling contractors base their estimates on the average depth for the surrounding area, but you may end up with a below-average depth as long as the water initially tapped is at an acceptable level of quality.

What Should Be Done Before & After Installation?

Prior to well installation, you will want to complete and submit all relevant permit applications to your local health department. You should also estimate how much water you will need to supply your household so the subsequent drilling efforts match up to your requirements. Once the well is in place, be sure to set up water testing services, which should be conducted at least once a year. The more shallow your well is, the more susceptible it will be to contamination, so you'll want to adjust your testing schedule accordingly.

Setting up your own private water well source is a satisfying and freeing change, and you'll be able to rest easy when you hire the pros at Reliable Pump and Well Services, LLC of Montgomery, NY. This family-owned and -operated company is licensed by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, providing both routine and emergency services to residents and businesses throughout the Hudson Valley area. Visit them online to learn more about their well drilling and pumping services, and call them at (845) 629-8301 to set up your free quote today.