Maintenance Task #1:  Water quality testing

Well water should be tested regularly for bacterial contamination, and should be tested for chemical contamination if it is suspected.  Check with your local board of health for the proper procedures.

Health and Safety.

 Maintenance Task #2:  Inspect well and pump

Inspection should include the following tasks:

1. Well cap:  Ensure that the well cap is securely in place and watertight.

2. Well casing:  Joints, cracks, and connections in the well casing should be sealed.

3. Pump:  The well pump should be serviced in accordance with your manufacturer's recommendation.

4. Pipes:  Pipes should be inspected for signs of leaking or cracks.

5. Surface drainage:  Surface drainage should flow away from the well casing, and surface water should not be allowed to collect near the well.  The well should not be located downhill from any source of pollution.

safety.  Proper maintenance of your well and periodic testing of the water ensures the water remains safe for healthy consumption.

QUESTIONS & ANSWERS from "Ask-a-Wizard":

QUESTION from "kevintforster": 

We have a well pump. Every morning when we use the shower or faucets for the first time that day, the water pressure drops and sounds as if air is in the lines. It only happens for a short time.

ANSWER:

kevintforster:

Since you said that you lose water pressure from your well water system the first time you use it in the morning and that it sounds like there is 'air' in the lines, it makes me think that you may be seeing the effects of methane gas building up in your water supply.

If you had a leak in your plumbing, valves or holding tank, it would likely have entrained air all of the time. But since it sounds like you are seeing the problem only first thing, after not using your system all night, then the suspect may be methane gas that builds up overnight.

A test for this is to turn on a faucet first thing in the morning in a very WELL-VENTILATED room and with a long-stemmed match, try to light the gas that comes out. Air will not burn, but methane will. Be very careful doing this, and if you have any questions about it, leave it to a professional.

To correct excessive gases in a well water system (whether it is methane or any other gas) you may need to consider an aeration system. If you go to www.wqa.org, you should be able to find a certified water specialist in our area who can advise you.

Hope this is helpful.

Regards,
Home-Wizard.com
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