As autumn leaves start to fall, you know that your water well has powered you through another scorching summer. Now’s the perfect moment to reward it with a professional inspection and maintenance. Just like you’d tune up your car after a long road trip, your residential water well deserves some care after working hard all season. A fall check-up keeps your water flowing smoothly and safely, setting you up for worry-free hydration through the cooler months ahead.
What Fall Maintenance Accomplishes
Fall maintenance is a health check-up for your water well. It helps catch potential issues before they escalate into major problems, saving you time, money, and headaches down the road. During this routine service, a professional water well contractor thoroughly examines your entire system, from the wellhead to your pressure tank.
This comprehensive check helps improve water quality by identifying and addressing contamination sources. It also optimizes your well’s performance, potentially lowering your energy bills by keeping your pump running efficiently. Regular maintenance also extends the lifespan of your well components, including the pump, well casing, and well screen.
Fall maintenance also gives you peace of mind. Knowing your water system is in top shape means you can trust the safety and quality of every drop that comes out of your tap. It’s an investment in your family’s health and your home’s value.
How Fall Leaves Affect Your Water Well
When autumn rolls around, falling leaves can wreak havoc on your water well system. As they decompose, leaves introduce organic matter into your water supply, potentially compromising its quality. This debris can clog your well screen, reducing water flow and putting extra strain on your pump. Decaying leaves also create an ideal breeding ground for bacteria, including iron bacteria, which can thrive in your well water.
The impact goes beyond just leaves, as autumn rains can wash other contaminants into your well, affecting water quality. That’s why fall is an important time for system maintenance. A professional water well contractor can spot these issues early, preventing costly repairs down the line. Regular maintenance keeps your water clean, your pump efficient, and your family healthy.
Signs That You May Have Bacteria in Your Water
Fall’s bounty of leaves can leave you with an unwelcome gift — bacteria in your water supply. As leaves decompose in or around your well, they create a perfect environment for harmful microorganisms to flourish. This bacterial invasion can spell trouble for your water quality and your health.
Watch out for these telltale signs of bacteria in your water:
- Unusual taste or odor (often described as “earthy” or “rotten egg”)
- Cloudy or discolored water
- Stains on fixtures or laundry
- Decreased water pressure
- Unexplained gastrointestinal issues
If you notice any of these symptoms, call your water well company. A water well contractor can test your water quality and recommend appropriate treatment options. Your well should also be tested annually to catch these issues before they become serious problems.
What to Expect From Fall Water Well Maintenance
While water well maintenance can vary by company, the process is generally similar. A thorough fall check-up typically includes several key components, each playing a very important role in keeping your water flowing safely and efficiently.
Visual Inspections
Your well contractor will start with a detailed visual inspection of your well system. They’ll check the wellhead for signs of damage or wear, looking for cracks or gaps that could allow contaminants to enter. The well casing will be examined for corrosion or other issues. They’ll also look at the surrounding area, checking for proper separation from potential contamination sources like chemical storage facilities, waste systems, or septic systems.
Flow Test
A flow test measures how much water your well produces over a set time period. This helps determine if your well is meeting your household’s needs and if the pump is working efficiently. Low flow could indicate problems with your well screen, pump, or aquifer levels. Your contractor will compare current results with previous tests to spot any concerning trends.
Submersible Pump Check Valve Inspection
The check valve in your submersible pump prevents water from flowing back down into the well when the pump shuts off. A faulty check valve can lead to pressure loss, pump damage, and even contamination. Your contractor will test this valve to make sure it’s functioning correctly and replace it if necessary.
Electrical System Test
Your well’s electrical components are crucial for its operation. The contractor will check all wiring, connections, and control boxes for signs of wear or damage. They’ll test the pump motor’s amperage draw to make sure it’s operating within normal parameters. This electrical check helps prevent unexpected pump failures and potential electrical hazards.
Inspect Your Water Well This Fall With Paramount Well Service
At Paramount Well Service, we’re committed to keeping your water flowing clean and clear. We provide comprehensive water well system inspections and maintenance for clients in Somerset County and the surrounding areas. Our team of skilled professionals is ready to give your well the care it needs this fall. For every private well owner or business that needs commercial well service, we are here to help. Schedule your fall maintenance today!