If your home is connected to well water, you probably know that there are several things you should be checking for throughout the year. With winter fast approaching, there are definitely a few items you should add to your list before the cold weather really sets in. Here are six key well water maintenance tips to get you started:
Take a Close Look
Basic as it might seem, performing a visual once-over of you well water system is a really good way to find potential issues before they turn into a major headache. Things you’ll want to look out for include any debris that has gathered around your wellhead, uninsulated pipes, cracks and general damage.
Work on Winterization
To ensure your well is prepared for approaching winter, be sure to thoroughly insulate any pipes located in non-heated areas of your house with heat tape or insulation sleeves, paying special attention to any pipes that may run along an outside wall. Don’t forget about adding protection around any above-ground pumps as well!
Replace Your Treatment Filters
Autumn is a great time for you to replace your water treatment filters—if you make it a habit to do it at the same time of year, it’ll be easier to remember.
Pay Attention to Falling Leaves
While the leaf decomposition process is essential to replenishing nutrients in the soil, it can be a real nuisance for well water pumps as it can affect the water quality with heightened levels of nitrogen, phosphorus and more. Be sure to remove leaves that have fallen near your wellhead, and don’t allow any foliage to collect on paved surfaces, as this can lead to drain blockages from runoff. Finally, keep an eye out for smaller flooding instances around your property—this may indicate a blocked drain due to unraked leaves.
Switch off Your System
If you’re headed for warmer weather as the winter chill approaches, make a note to turn off your well water system by shutting down the pump’s power and then closing the main water valve. This will help protect your system from any major issues that could arise if not in use for some time.
Schedule Some Tests
While there’s a lot you can do on your own in terms of well water maintenance, there are some things that are best left to the professionals. Fall is a great time to schedule water flow and water quality tests, an electrical system test and a submersible valve pump check. For systems like these, it’s best to have someone check everything over before a major problem arises.
The Faulstick Difference
At Faulstick Plumbing, we specialize in installs, repairs, and inspections for all of your well, water, and plumbing needs. Our family-owned and operated business has built a reputation as the best-doing things the right way with the customer in mind, every time. Give us a call at 570-992-0447 to discuss your needs today!
