Before buying a house that's serviced by a well, you need to be sure you are making a well-informed decision. You must check whether the property's water supply is safe and sufficient. Also, you should be aware that this property will require regular well maintenance services. Below are some key points to remember as you evaluate a home with a well.

3 Critical Aspects to Know About Purchasing a Home With a Well

1. Water Quality

Prioritize well testing so you can be confident that your family's health and safety won't be put at risk. Check the Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) website for more information on private well safety. Also, ask your real estate agent about any past or present water quality issues in the neighborhood. 

Nevertheless, a professional must still inspect the water sample from your well. Standard water tests can check for bacteria, minerals, pH level, turbidity, and hardness. Even after you've closed the sale, be sure to schedule routine well maintenance services. This way, professionals can regularly check your water source for any contaminants.

2. Water Quantity

Apart from being safe for human consumption, your water supply must be enough to meet the demands of your household. You can determine your well's storage capacity by measuring the water level as well as the depths of your structure and its pump.

You can also request a flow rate test to verify the volume of water the well can deliver every minute. Note that an average American family consumes over 300 gallons of water per day and needs about six to 12 gallons per minute. Even if your well is up to standard, remember to perform routine well maintenance to ensure that its water flow remains sufficient.

3. Distance From Septic Tank 

Since septic tanks are used to store wastes, it is unsafe to have these near the wells. These tanks inevitably fail and leak over time, contaminating the surrounding areas. 

Ideally, your home should sit on at least an acre of property to avoid having a well too close to the septic tank. If the house is not within a safe distance from this underground chamber, there's a possibility that your water source will be contaminated when the septic system fails.

For reliable well maintenance and drilling services, turn to Evergreen Well Drilling in Shelton, WA. Since 1974, this trusted drilling specialist has delivered outstanding water services to Mason County residents, including pump installation and well drilling, maintenance, and repair. Call them today at (360) 830-9005 to schedule your free estimate, or visit their website to send them a message online.