If you're considering buying a home that is not near a municipal water supply, a well can provide your household with access to water. A well is a home water system that extends into the ground to an aquifer. A pump draws water from the aquifer and sends it through the plumbing and into the house. Before you purchase a home with a water well, review the information below. 

Testing the Water

Well water needs to be tested to ensure it is safe and pure. Prior to buying a property with a well, have a professional conduct testing that includes assessments of alkalinity, bacteria, minerals, pH levels, and turbidity.

The water should also be tested for volatile organic compounds like benzene, methylene chloride, methyl chloroform, and toluene. If unsafe levels are detected, follow the testing professional's recommendations for purifying the water and keeping your home water system secure from potential dangers.

How to Budget

With all of its benefits, it also costs money to own a water well—so be sure to account for maintenance costs in your budgeting. Most well pumps will need routine service every three to five years. Also, find out the age of the well before buying the property. Most wells last 30 to 50 years. If it's reaching the end of its lifespan, you'll want to budget for replacement costs.

Proper Well Placement

State and local laws aim to make sure that all wells are installed safely and correctly. This includes keeping a minimum distance of 100 feet between a water well and a septic system. Some older properties or properties that are particularly off the grid may have overlooked this important guideline.

If a house you're thinking about buying has a well and septic system closer than 100 feet, cross-contamination is a potential issue, and you should consider moving one or the other for the safety of your home water system.

When you need well installation, repairs, or maintenance for your new home, the team at Morgan Well & Pump Inc is here. Since 1948, they have been serving property owners throughout the Cabarrus County, NC, region. They offer a variety of services for your home water system, including drilling, inspections, and water treatment and testing. Call (704) 933-0479 or visit them online to request a quote.