Well Repair: What To Do When Your Water Stops Working
If you have your own water well, you know that the possibility of it not working is always a looming reality. Whether it’s due to an electrical issue, well pump, pressure tank, low water pressure, or something else entirely, having your own water well stop working can be an incredibly stressful situation.
You can’t take a shower, you can’t use the toilet, you can’t cook, clean the dishes, etc. It’s not fun and what you took for granted everyday now, has made living in your house very problematic.
Here are some of the most frequently asked questions when it comes to well repair.
How do you know if your well is bad?
The most common way to tell if your well is bad is through the taste and color of the water. Signs that may indicate a bad well include an unpleasant smell from the water supply, discoloration of the water, and taste or odor changes.
Another way is through testing the water quality, which should be done annually. A professional should be consulted to obtain a sample and analyze it for any contaminants, such as bacteria, lead, nitrates or other pollutants. If the levels of contamination are too high, then it could indicate that your well has been contaminated and needs to be treated or replaced. It’s also important to check for mechanical issues such as water pump failures/issues or pipe leaks which can affect water quality in wells. Additionally, you should have your well inspected regularly for potential hazards related to the structure and safety of its components. This also will prolong your water wells life.
Water Pump Repair & Pressure Tank Services
Inadequate water supply is another sign your well needs maintenance by a certified professional. This can be caused by a number of factors including a faulty pressure tank, a water pump that needs repair, and more.
For water pump maintenance services
For pressure tank problems click here
Can you repair an old well?
Yes, it is possible to repair an old well. Depending on the type of damage or issues present in the well, a well contractor will be able to inspect and assess whether repairs are needed and what kind of repairs should be done. In some cases, this might involve replacing parts of the well system such as the well pump, while in other cases it could simply involve cleaning existing components to get rid of sediment buildup.
What to do if your well stops working?
If your well stops working, the first step is to contact a well drilling professional and have it inspected. A specialist can help identify any potential mechanical issues or other problems that could be causing it to stop functioning properly. Depending on their findings, they may be able to repair certain components of the well or suggest replacements for any broken parts. Additionally, cleaning the existing components and filters may also help restore your well’s functionality. If you are unable to resolve the problem through repairs or replacements, then you may need to replace the entire well.
What are the signs that you need a new well?
Signs that you may need a new well include:
– Unpleasant smell or taste coming from your water supply
– Discoloration of the water supply
– Odor changes in the water
– Pump failures or pipe leaks indicating mechanical issues with the well system
– Structural damage to components of the well system such as tubing, pipes, seals, etc.
– High levels of contamination present in water sample testing results
– Inability to restore function despite repairs and replacements made to existing components
– Low Water Pressure
Additionally, you might need to replace your well if it has been contaminated with bacteria, lead, nitrates or other pollutants after testing its water quality. If any of these signs are present then you may need to have your well repaired, replace your well completely, or add additional filters to have quality drinking water and make it safe for consumption.
How long do wells usually last?
The average lifespan of a well depends on the quality of its construction and environmental factors such as water chemistry, soil type, and local weather conditions. Generally speaking, wells tend to last between 25-50 years when properly maintained. Regularly inspecting and servicing your well will help extend its life and ensure it is functioning at optimal levels. In some cases, repairs may be needed due to deteriorating components or hazardous issues that arise over time, or just wear and tear in your well pump.
Most commonly replaced components of the well Pump system
- Well pump (most commonly submersible pump for groundwater wells)
- Pressure Tank
- Pressure switch/Pressure Control Switch
- Well Casing/Steel casing (not commonly replaced)
- Pressure Gauge
What causes a well to fail?
A well can fail due to a variety of reasons, including mechanical issues such as pump failures or pipe leaks, contamination from pollutants like bacteria or lead, sediment buildup that affects water quality, and hazardous conditions such as structural or safety risks. Additionally, old wells may wear out over time due to corrosion or other components that need to be replaced. Poor maintenance also contributes to the failure of wells as it can lead to deterioration of existing components and increase the risk for potential hazards.
Do wells eventually dry up?
Yes, it is possible for wells to eventually dry up. This usually happens when the water table has dropped below the level of your well due to changes in climate, soil structure, use of other nearby wells, or any combination of these factors. Agriculture wells, use a lot of water and need a large diamater hole to suck up adequate amounts of water for watering crops, many old wells are not large enough to take on this task. Wells can also dry up if they are not used regularly and maintained properly. Having your well inspected by a professional will help you determine its current status and take necessary steps to maximize its longevity if needed.
If you find that your well is not functioning properly, it is important to seek professional help right away. WildHeron Drilling provides expert well repair services and can assist in restoring the performance of your system. Our qualified specialists are equipped with the knowledge and skills needed to inspect your well and identify any potential problems quickly and accurately. Give us a call today and get your well repaired with well drilling services