If you’re not connected to a municipal water system, water well drilling allows your household to get the water it needs on a daily basis. But it’s not enough to drill a well—you also need to maintain it. The following do’s and don’ts show how proper well maintenance begins before water well drilling.

Do:

Maintain proper distance between the well and the building.

Water well drilling must be done in the right location to minimize the risk of contamination. For example, wells should be placed at least 50 feet from septic tanks and foundation drains, as well as 20 feet from road boundaries. Some areas have additional regulations regarding well placement.

Test water and schedule inspections regularly.

Contaminated water doesn’t always smell or taste strange. Because of this, you should schedule a professional well inspection and water test at least once a year. These tests check for coliform bacteria, imbalanced pH levels, dissolved solids, and other issues. Early detection will make it easier to fix these problems.

Don’t:

Allow backsiphonage.

Placing a hose inside a container, such as when mixing a fertilizer or pesticide, can create a partial vacuum that draws contaminated water into the water supply. Avoid creating these accidental vacuums. They could put dangerous chemicals into your drinking water.

Landscape too close to the well.

Improper landscaping can also create issues for your well. Avoid installing landscaping near the well that would cause rainwater to slope toward it. The top of the well should be kept one foot above ground level to protect the casing.

Whether you need water well drilling or water pump repair, you can depend on Mike Woolsey and Sons Pump and Well Service in Summersville, MO, to get the job done. Serving Shannon and Texas counties, their team uses high-quality American-made parts and offers a 5-year warranty on all products. To learn more about their well services, visit them online or call (417) 932-4036.