SCHEDULE YOUR ANNUAL WELL WATER CHECK-UP surrounding the wellhead is sloping away from the well to divert surface runoff o If the well is equipped Things to Look For with a vented well cap, Visual Inspection: Wellhead make sure the vent is free • Casing (pipe protruding of debris and able to keep from the ground)—Check insects and animals out the general condition and o Any growth vegetation check if the casing extends with root systems within 10 at least 12 inches above feet of the well should be ground. physically removed • Well cap (cap on top o If your well is located in of casing)—Check the a low-lying area prone to condition of the cap and flooding, consider having any seals, make sure that it a water well systems is securely attached. professional raise the • Electrical conduit (if casing to at least 12 inches present)—Visually verify above the historic record that all connections are flood level—or construct a secure. new well outside the floodprone area. • In a survey of the area around the well: Lastly, be sure to get your water tested any time there Check for potential is a change in taste, odor, or sources of contamination and physical dangers, and: appearance, or anytime the system is serviced. o Remove chemicals such as paint, fertilizer, pesticides, or motor oil Source: https://wellowner.org/resources/ water-well-maintenance/annualo Maintain at least inspection/ on October 1, 2021. 50 feet between the well and any kennels, pastures, feeding areas, or livestock operations o Ensure a proper distance is maintained from buildings, waste systems, or chemical storage areas (including fuel tanks)—a water well systems professional should know local codes and requirements o Be sure the ground
Submitted by Colleen Monhagan include all laboratory and test results. Executive Director
What Does a Checkup Involve? Wells should be evaluated annually by a licensed or certified water well systems professional. • A flow test to determine system output, a check of water level before and during pumping (if possible), pump motor performance (amp load, grounding, line voltage), and pressure tank and pressure switch contact. • An inspection of well equipment to assure it is sanitary and meets local code requirements. • A test of water for coliform bacteria and nitrates, and anything else of local concern. Typical additional tests are for iron, manganese, water hardness, sulfides, and other water constituents that cause problems with plumbing, staining, water appearance, and odor. Additional tests may be recommended if water appears cloudy or oily, if bacterial growth is visible on fixtures, or water treatment devices are not working as they should. • A concise, clear, written report should explain results and recommendations and
Extension Connection
December 2021
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