Are there any problems with a private well?
Most common problems with well water are simply aesthetics, but there can also be more serious concerns. While groundwater found in private wells is less susceptible to pollution than surface water, it is certainly possible for wells to become contaminated.
How does a private well water system work?
Well water is a private water source taken directly from the earth. To create a private well, a hole is drilled into the ground down to the aquifer—a permeable layer of rock that contains water. A pump system is then used to carry that water up and into your home.
How does a private well in a home work?
To create a private well, a hole is drilled into the ground down to the aquifer—a permeable layer of rock that contains water. A pump system is then used to carry that water up and into your home.
What causes a private well to run dry?
Certain conditions—in particular droughts—can cause a private well to run dry, as can overtaxing it in one use (see: filling your swimming pool). Signs that you’re running out of a fresh supply include a sputtering pump that turns on and off periodically, as well as water coming out of the pipes brown or muddy.
What do you need to know about a private well?
Many homes with private wells also have water softeners, which use salt to help filter out minerals so you get purer water for drinking, cleaning, cooking, and doing laundry. You’ll need to check the salt level in your water softener once a month, and to refill the salts as needed when they run low.
Certain conditions—in particular droughts—can cause a private well to run dry, as can overtaxing it in one use (see: filling your swimming pool). Signs that you’re running out of a fresh supply include a sputtering pump that turns on and off periodically, as well as water coming out of the pipes brown or muddy.
Well water is a private water source taken directly from the earth. To create a private well, a hole is drilled into the ground down to the aquifer—a permeable layer of rock that contains water. A pump system is then used to carry that water up and into your home.
Do you need electricity for a private well?
Yes, private wells rely on electricity to pump ground water to the surface, and if you lose electricity, you lose the ability to pump water as well. For this reason, it’s recommended that you have a backup source of electricity on hand with a well, such as an emergency generator or solar power. It’s a responsibility.
