Water wells need regular inspection to ensure proper operation, usefulness, and safety. These reviews can identify significant issues concerning poor water quality and health risks.

As such, your well should be evaluated at least annually by a licensed or certified water well systems professional. In between inspections, well owners should also look out for indicators that a professional might be needed sooner.

If you’re purchasing a property with a well, it’s crucial to test the water beforehand. Not all states require present homeowners to inspect their wells before selling, so always ascertain whether the water’s safe to drink before buying the house. 

With that in mind, if you’re undertaking a professional well inspection for the first time, here’s what to expect.

What’s a Septic System?

A septic system is a wastewater treatment solution located underground and commonly used in areas without centralized sewer systems. Many rural homes with such a system also have a well that provides water for daily use.

The EPA estimates that more than 13 million households rely on private wells for daily water use in the U.S. 

Each septic system serves a single property, whereas sewer lines connect whole city sections. There are advantages to owning a property with a septic system and well.

There are no monthly costs for sewage, and the systems are often long-lasting. They’re also better for the environment because septic systems don’t contaminate the groundwater. If there are leaks, these are usually contained to just one stretch of property.

When to Get a Well Inspection

You can ascertain the long-lasting functionality of your well by practicing proper residential maintenance. You can check for many functions and defects yourself by paying attention to the water system. 

As we’ve already mentioned, a well should ideally be inspected once a year or before the associated property changes hands. But there are signs that a well might have a defect and could benefit from a thorough inspection to ensure water purity.

• Anytime the well has to be opened (when the cap or well seal’s removed), it’s worth getting your well inspected.
• If you experience an odd taste or odor in your water
• If you experience cloudy water (turbidity) caused by suspended matter
• If you’re experiencing a loss of capacity or pressure, or if the well isn’t producing as much water. If the pressure drops or surges or the pump cycles on and off often.
• If you receive test results indicating positive results for total coliforms, anaerobic bacteria, or any other potential health concerns. In this case, you’ll need to hire a pro to disinfect the well. This includes the removal of pump equipment and evacuating the well to the bottom.

Also, in some states, you’re required to inspect your well to assure its water purity before you can sell your house.

What Should You Expect During a Well Inspection?

Well, inspections provide a thorough evaluation of the entire well system. This begins with checking the operation of the submersible pump and the water recharging into the well.

The inspector examines all parts of the pressure tank, which is usually located in the basement. 

A well inspector can check the condition of your system for mechanical defects, such as rusting tanks, faulty gauges, or leaking seals. Such issues can cause low water pressure or encourage contaminants in the drinking water.