Most homeowners depend on city water to power their homes, but there are plenty of folks out there who utilize wells! They’re typically found in more rural areas, but it never hurts to understand them, just in case! Those who have never had a well may not know how they work, which is essential if you’re moving into a home with one.
Are you unsure what the different parts of a well are for or how they work? No problem. We can dive into what they do and how they do it, providing all the necessary information to make the process smoother for homebuyers and set them up for success!
The Components Of Your Well
To understand how a well functions, you should also understand the different parts you may encounter in the future. Though contractors often use wells for residential purposes, large wells for businesses typically function the same. Understanding the basics of well function is critical information if you want to keep yours lasting a long time.
Well Casing
This tube-shaped structure is placed inside to maintain the well opening from the target groundwater to the surface. The well casing helps pump dirt and excess water out of the well and prevents contaminants from entering it and mixing with drinking water. In short, this is a critical piece to the puzzle that is regulated for your safety!
Well Cap
Well caps sit on top of the wheel casing to prevent debris, insects, or even small animals from getting into the well. These pieces also include a vent to control pressure during well pumping, and are typically made of aluminum or plastic.
Well Screens
Wall screens are attached to the bottom of the casing, preventing too much sediment from entering the well. They are typically a continuous slot or perforated pipe to decrease the risk of your water becoming dirty.
Pitless Adapters
Pitless adapters are a connector that keeps the pipe carrying water below the frost line, ensuring a sanitary and maintained frostproof seal. These pieces are critical for frost prevention, as excessive frost damage can result in a significant dent in your wallet and a major headache in the future!
Jet Pumps
Jet pumps are the most commonly used pumps for shallow wells, 25 feet or less, and are mounted above ground. They use suction to draw water from the well, and typically contain a nozzle that transforms the pressurized water into a high-speed jet. These types of pumps are non-submersible and are often found in areas with high water tables and/or warmer climates.
Submersible Pumps
Submersible pumps are the most common pump type for deep wells (25 feet or more), are cylinder-shaped, and are used to access clean drinking water. They’re placed inside the well casing and are connected to a power source above the surface; they’re used in commercial and residential construction, for drinking water or irrigation, etc.
Let The Pros Help You Out
Handling a well isn’t something you can simply figure out as you go; you should educate yourself on a topic that affects your home! Professional home inspection companies know what to look for during inspections and what work it may need before moving in. However, even if you’re settled and have concerns about your well, always reach out for help!
It’s essential to know how these contraptions work in order to care for them properly; this includes what they look like, the most common repairs they need, and when to pass them off to a team who knows best. Detail View Home Inspections is always here to help, making your home a dream one, one well at a time!
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