Owning a well offers the benefit of knowing exactly where your water comes from and not relying on the city for your supply. It also requires regular maintenance and inspection. A well inspection includes a pump analysis, flow test, equipment check, and water sample testing to keep your water clean and safe!
When Should I Get My Well Inspected?
There are three reasons to get a well inspection, and each has a different timeline. The first reason is that you are buying or selling a house with a well and need to get it inspected for the final sale. In this case, your timeline will be aided by your realtor, and if the need arises, you can get a ‘rush’ inspection and water testing with same-day testing and next-day results.
Dirty water or other obvious problems are other reasons to get a well system home inspection. In the case of dirty or foul-smelling/tasting water, stop drinking and using the water in your home until a professional has deemed it safe to drink once more.
The final reason to get your inspection done is for preventative maintenance and testing. Don’t wait until there is a problem, as dirty water often poses health risks, and schedule a yearly well inspection instead.
Pump Analysis
Your well inspector will perform a pump analysis on your well pump to ensure it has no problems and is running efficiently. They will check the electrical current, pressure switch, and water flow rate to determine the overall health of your well pump.
If they find any problems, you will be able to either repair or replace the pump before it breaks down! This will give you confidence that your house will have access to water year-round.
Flow Test
The flow test involves measuring the water output in gallons per minute and the pressure of your well system. If your well pump has no problems, it will likely deliver around 6-12 gallons per minute.
If the pressure is too low, you may have already noticed it while showering, washing dishes, or doing other tasks around your home that require high water demand. If flow is found to be low, your inspector will recommend next steps, whether that’s adjusting the pump, cleaning the well, or evaluating whether the water table itself may be the issue.
Equipment Check
A private well inspection will also include a visual check of your equipment. This involves looking for rust, bacteria, or mineral buildup, and general wear and tear. Your inspector will let you know in the report if you have anything to worry about or if anything may need to be replaced. They may also let you know that everything is working well now, but the age of your system means that repairs or replacement are likely to be needed soon.
<h2> Water Testing
Water samples will be taken during your inspection to test for coliform bacteria, nitrates, total dissolved solids, and pH. Additional tests may be included if other contaminants have been found in the area.
Coliform bacteria can indicate a sewage leak into your well, and E. coli testing can confirm fecal contamination. Nitrates from fertilizer or animal waste can make your family sick. High or low pH levels affect how your water tastes and can corrode your pipes over time. Total dissolved solids, such as calcium, can build up in your pipes and reduce water flow if left unchecked.
If any contaminants are found, your inspector will walk you through the results and recommend appropriate next steps – whether that’s treatment, repair, or retesting.
In The Clear
A well system home inspection will give you peace of mind that the water you drink is clean and that your well doesn’t have any impending problems. If you own a home with a well system, keep yourself and your family safe by scheduling a well inspection for your Southwest Virginia home today!