Nearly 500,000 Missouri residents rely on private water wells, but not all households are familiar with using private water supplies properly. Private well services rely on groundwater, which can be protected from contamination by following these tips.

Do:

Keep the area around your well landscaped.

Your well should always be accessible, so you should remove leaves and other debris from the area above its casing. Use care when mowing this area; the case could be damaged by landscaping equipment. The top of the well should be at least 12 inches above the ground to prevent surface water from entering the wellhead. 

Disinfect your well if water becomes contaminated.

If you have a hunch your well water is contaminated because of a strange odor or taste, you should have it tested by a company specializing in well services. These professional services can administer the best disinfection method to clean your well without over-chlorinating the water.

Don’t:

Dispose of chemicals near your well.

Avoid using or disposing of any potentially hazardous chemicals within 100 feet of your well. This includes paint, pesticides, motor oil, and fertilizer. These pollutants can infiltrate nearby groundwater and contaminate your drinking supply.

Skip regular inspections.

A licensed water well driller or well services contractor should inspect and test your well at least once a year. Inspections should include a thorough check of the wellhead to ensure it is not damaged and the waterproof seal is still intact. A total coliform bacteria test should be performed on the water to verify there are no harmful bacteria present. Every three years, a professional should test water for pH, total dissolved solids (TDS), and contaminants such as nitrates.

Mike Woolsey and Sons Well Drilling and Pump Service can help Southern Missouri residents with their water well services. Their professional technicians can install and service private water wells, which come with a five-year warranty on all pumps and tanks. Call (417) 932-4036 to request a consultation, or visit their website to learn more about their services.