Water wells are reliable and efficient for supplying your home with clean water. However, ensuring your water supply remains consistent requires maintaining your well. This article will highlight four essential tasks to maintain your well and keep it running smoothly.

Assessing The Flow From The Water Well Pump

Checking the output of the water well pump is an important maintenance duty. Pump production might diminish over the years due to wear and tear. This results in low water pressure and poor water flow. If you detect a drop in water pressure, you may need to replace the pump.

Before testing the pump's flow rate, you must turn off all the plumbing appliances in your home to ensure they do not interfere with the test results. If the flow rate is less than your system's designed specifications, a professional technician should be scheduled to assess the unit. Often, minor issues can be repaired before they can lead to more costly damages in the future.

Checking The Well Cap For Damage

The well cap is the cover that protects the wellhead from contaminants and debris. It can develop cracks or other issues that may lead to safety risks. This can include bacterial contamination or debris entering the well. Periodically inspecting the well cap for any signs of damage and replacing it if necessary can mitigate these risks.

Remove the cap gently and inspect it for cracks, chips, or other signs of wear. When placing the cap back on the well, ensure it fits snugly over the wellhead.

Flushing The Water Storage Tank

Sediments can accumulate in the water storage tank, reducing capacity and causing clogs. You should flush the tank at least once a year to remove any sediment buildup. Turn off the pump and open a faucet to reduce pressure before starting the flushing process. Attach a hose to the tank's drain valve and route it to a suitable drainage area. Lastly, open the valve and let the tank completely empty.

Evaluating The Well System For Leaks

A leak in your well could compromise its performance and damage your landscaping. A simple and easy way to check for leaks is to monitor the well's pressure gauge. If the pressure drops when there is no water use, it could indicate a leak in the system. Another option to check for leaks is to inspect the well pump and its connections for any signs of dampness, which could indicate a small leak. Despite being a small leak, repairs should still be completed promptly. 

For more info, contact a local company like Valley Pump Co.