Your water well should provide a reliable water supply to your household or business for many years. But you shouldn’t ignore it and assume it will continue functioning at full capacity. By taking care of the pump and following a few steps, you can extend its life span further.

3 Ways to Maintain Your Water Well Pump

1. Install a Low-Water Cutoff Switch

While it shouldn’t happen often, the well’s water supply may run low due to heavy use or drought. If this occurs, it causes the pump to work harder and potentially overheat by burning up the motor. A low-water cutoff mechanism will sense when this occurs and shut off the pump to prevent any damage.

2. Avoid Heavy Use

As with any mechanical system, heavy use will wear down a water well pump faster. Ordinary activities like showering and washing clothes shouldn’t strain the equipment. However, if you use a lot of water to fill up a swimming pool, irrigate the lawn, or take care of livestock, the well pump can get overworked. To avoid damage and save money in the long run, you may have to arrange water hauling or install an additional storage tank.

3. Examine the Sediment Filter

Sand, silt, rust, and other minerals like iron can enter the water supply after a flood or via natural bacterial processes. Although this typically doesn’t affect your health adversely, it can wear out the water well pump valves and bearings over time if it’s not filtered out. Change the filter every 30 to 90 days to keep the pump in good condition.

In addition to these steps, you should schedule annual inspections for your water well pump. Evergreen Well Drilling has served the maintenance needs of Shelton, WA, and Mason County residents for over four decades. They’ll examine the motor and all internal parts, including bearings and impellers, to ensure they’re functioning properly. Call (360) 426-3545 to make an appointment or request a free estimate, and visit their website for more information on their services.